________________
214 / The Rāstrakūtas and Jainism
posture, Yakşa-Yakşi sculptures, dvārapālas, wealth of icons and metal images monuments of over a millenium are located largely in the Jaina centres, and also found scattered to every nook and corner of the state. Wherever they are, these relics represent the aesthetic quality, cultural glory and invaluable heritage of a living faith.
8.1.3.2. Jaina tradition has had a long and distinguished inheritance. Recognising the great strength of the past wisdom and beauty, as portrayed in its art, architecture, sculpture and cultural history, rich legacy of Jainism had become world heritage. Major share of the architectural products belongs to the golden epoch of the Rāstrakūta period. It marks a great era of the beginning and development to its meridian of temple architecture and allied arts.
8.1.4. The priorities of Jaina laity were - Jināgama, Jaina scripture, Jinabhavana, Jaina house of worship, Jinabimba, image of Jina, Jinasasana, teaching of Jina, and Jayamāla, which found its best expression and realisation in basadi, Jaina shrine.
8.1.4.1. Jaina sanctuaries were a temporary place of residence for monks and nuns, who would not stay at a particular place for a longer period, except the season of rain retreat. Jaina places of worship were both seats of worship and the centres of learning. The friars and nuns, during their short stay, would teach the house holders. Members of the royal house, ministers, generals, officials of administrative ranking, laymen and women would visit the temple for worship and to listen to the sermons.
8.1.4.2. Each and every Jaina shrine invariably had srtabhaņdāra, library of scriptures. Therewere fourteen boxfull of Jaina āgama texts in the śratabhaņdāra of Maļkhēd. Texts of palmleaf Manuscripts on Jaina and non-jaina philosophies, and on secular and non-secular subjects were included in the collection of the library. Immediate
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org