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96 Jaina Religion: Its Historical Journey of Evolution
are found. The Jina idols that are found from Lohanipur in Patna and Kaňkālī Ţilā in Mathura are a strong proof of the fact that the tradition of idol-worship came into being among Jainas even before the Christian era. Instead of entering into the discussion on the point in favour or against idol worship, we will attempt to see objectively as to how, with the passage of time, other traditions were instrumental in gradual changes in the forms of idol worship of the Jainas; and how they affected the way of life of monks. Along with the building of temples and worship of idols the conduct of Jaina monks slackened rapidly. And in both Śvetambara and Digambara traditions mathas or Caityāvasī and Vanavāsī traditions emerged. For building of temples and idols and also for their management, gifts of lands started pouring in; and with this the question of their ownership also arose. The initial archival records and copper plates etc. available related to donations mention that donations were earlier given to the temple, idol or to the samṁgha, but later with the passage of time names of the ācāryas were written on donation papers. As a consequence, monks not only remained inhabitants or residents in the caityas but also got involved in the management of mathas, temples etc. This was, perhaps the reason why donations were received in their names. Thus, indulgence in comfort and the
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