[Solved] Compilation of the 12 Angas in Jain Literature

Read the following statements related to Jaina Literature and choose the appropriate option: Statement I: The Shvetambara Canon included the 12 Angas. Statement II: According to Shvetambara tradition, the Angas were compiled at a council held at Vallabhi.

[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2020]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Jain scriptures underwent multiple councils for compilation and standardization, leading to differences between the Shvetambara and Digambara traditions.

Authentic Source Evidence

The 12 Angas form the core of the Shvetambara Jain canon. According to tradition, the initial compilation of these Angas took place at the 1st Jain Council held in Pataliputra (under Sthulabhadra), not Vallabhi.

Analytical Breakdown

Statement I is true: The Angas (limbs) are indeed the most sacred texts of the Shvetambara canon.

Statement II is false: While the 2nd council was at Vallabhi (where the canon was finally written down), the Shvetambaras hold that the initial compilation of the Angas happened at Pataliputra.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What is the content of the Acharanga Sutra?"

The Acharanga Sutra, the first of the 12 Angas, details the code of conduct for Jain monks and nuns.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The 12th Anga, the 'Drstivada', is considered lost by the Shvetambara tradition, highlighting the fragility of oral traditions before their codification in later councils."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Agamas 4Mahavira 3

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