Consider the following about the spread of Jainism. 1. Mahavira allow...
- To spread his teachings, Mahavira organised the Sangha. Both men and women were admitted in the Sangha, and it consisted of both monks and lay followers.
- Due to the dedicated work of the Sangha members, there was a rapid spread of Jainism. It spread rapidly in western India and Karnataka.
- Jainism was patronised by Chandragupta Maurya, Kharavela of Kalinga and the royal dynasties of South India such as the Gangas, the Kadambas, the Chalukyas and the Rashtrakutas.
- There was a serious famine in the Ganges valley by the end of the fourth century BC. Many Jain monks led by Bhadrabahu and Chandragupta Maurya came to Shravanabelagola in Karnataka.
- Those who stayed back in North India were led by a monk named Sthulabhadra. He changed the code of conduct for the monks.
- This led to the division of Jainism into two sects that are Svetambaras and Digambaras.
View all questions of this test
Consider the following about the spread of Jainism. 1. Mahavira allow...
Explanation:
The correct answer is option A, which states that both statement 1 and 2 are correct.
Statement 1: Mahavira allowed both men and women to join Jain Sanghas.
- Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, advocated for equality and non-discrimination within Jain Sanghas.
- He allowed both men and women to become monks and nuns, breaking the prevailing gender norms of that time.
- This inclusive approach helped in attracting more people to Jainism, including women, and contributed to the spread of the religion.
Statement 2: The then rulers of southern India patronized Jainism.
- Jainism gained significant patronage from various rulers in southern India, especially during the rule of the Chalukya and Rashtrakuta dynasties.
- These rulers not only supported Jainism but also built numerous Jain temples and monasteries, known as Basadis or Bastis, which served as important centers for the spread of Jain teachings and practices.
- The patronage from rulers provided the necessary resources and protection to Jainism, enabling its growth and expansion in the region.
Statement 3: Chandragupta Maurya is said to have persecuted Jains on account of their severe ascetic practices.
- This statement is incorrect. Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Mauryan Empire, was a follower of Jainism and embraced its principles.
- However, it was his grandson, Emperor Ashoka, who is said to have initially persecuted Jains due to conflicts between different sects within the religion.
- Ashoka later became a staunch supporter of Jainism and promoted religious tolerance and non-violence.
In conclusion, both statement 1 and 2 are correct, while statement 3 is incorrect. Mahavira's inclusive approach and the patronage from southern Indian rulers played significant roles in the spread of Jainism.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.