Buddhism and Jainism in the Later Vedic Period | HPSC Preparation: All subjects - HPSC (Haryana) PDF Download

Introduction

• Life became complicated post-Mahabharata, contrasting the simplicity of the Vedic period.
• Increased ritualistic practices led to the emergence of Buddhism and Jainism as responses to religious complexities.

Buddhism

• Mahatma Buddha visited Haryana, particularly Kammasadhamma (modern Kaithal), where he delivered numerous discourses.
• Haryana saw significant Buddhist centers at Hisar, Karnal, Topra, and Thanesar, established by Emperor Asoka.
• Thanesar: Mahatma Buddha preached here, and Emperor Asoka built a 300 feet high stupa in its North-West part.
• Topra: Emperor Asoka erected a 42 feet high stone pillar with edicts in Brahmi Script and Prakrit language.
• Sugh: Mahatma Buddha preached, and Emperor Asoka built a stupa on the Yamuna banks.
• Agroha: Center of Buddhism with remains of stupas and viharas discovered through archaeological excavations.
• Rohtak and Kalanaur: Visited by Mahatma Buddha, contributing to the spread of Buddhism.

Decline and Revival:

• Buddhism in Haryana declined during Hiuen-Tsang's time but revived in the 7th century during Harsha's reign.
• Harshavardhana and Rajyavardhana, from the Pushyabhuti dynasty, supported Buddhism.

Jainism:

• Jainism continued its influence in Haryana post-Buddhism, with Jain Saint Lohacharya playing a significant role.
• Jainism expanded in Agroha and Rohtak, particularly after the decline of Buddhism in the 6th-7th century.
• Jain Acharyas Jinvallabh Suri, Haribhadra Suri, and Abhayadev played pivotal roles in Jainism's spread.
• Five-color flag symbolized Jainism's Mahavratas, with each color representing different virtues.
• Rohtak, Sirsa, and other regions became major Jain centers.

Main Jain Centers in Haryana:

• Thanesar (Kurukshetra): A primary center for Jain activities with ancient Jain idols discovered.
• Rohtak: Emerged as a Jain center around the 7th century with ancient Jain idols found in Khokhrakot.
• Jind: Metal statue of Jain Tirthankar Adinath discovered with 9th-century inscriptions.
• Pinjore (Panchkula): Numerous Jain idols found, including those of Chandraprabha, Parshwanath, and Mahavir Swami.
• Sirsa: Witnessed Jainism's influence during the 10th century, with fragmented remains of Jain idols found.
• Hansi: A medieval center for Jainism with a significant presence of Jain arhats and metal sculptures.
• Asthal Bohar (Rohtak): A historical center for the Nath sect, also containing important artifacts related to Jainism.