________________
History of Nirgrantha tradition 51
Śramaņas (bhikkhu) are called śrāvakas. In this context, however, more serious thought and deliberation is required. The journey by Nirgrantha-samgha for spreading its Religion
Bihar, eastern U.P. and nearby areas around this region were the areas of influence of Nirgrantha-samgha during Mahāvīra's time. But after his nirvāṇa these boundaries extended further. However, till the time of writing of the Agamas and Niryuktis and the early period of evolution of Jaina religion, Nirgranthas were permitted to travel only in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and eastern Rajasthan (of the present day India). And the sacred places of importance associated with Tīrthankaras were also limited to these areas only. Aristanemi is the only Tīrthankara who is also shown as connected to Saurashtra besides Sūrasena (the region close to Mathura) and it is believed that he attained nirvāņa at Mount Girnar (in Gujarat). But the description given in Āgamas about the proximity of Girnar and Dwarika is different from reality. Perhaps, the fact that Aristanemi and Kṛṣṇa were close relations is the reason for Aristanemi's association with Dwarika. Historical evidence in this context, however, is lacking.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
