History of Jainism

SR No.: 006741
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: U K Sharma
Publisher: D K Print World
Publication Year: 2002
Total Pages: 304
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 10 MB

Page 152

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History of Jainism with Special Reference to Mathura
Jaina Inscriptions from Mathura' and 'Further Jaina Inscriptions from Mathura'.67 Forty-one Jaina inscriptions discovered from Mathura and edited by Buhler were published in volume II of Epigraphia Indica under the title 'Further Jaina Inscriptions from Mathura'.68
The discovery of Jaina inscriptions in such large numbers from Kankālī Tīlā, Mathura delighted Buhler. Buhler needed ammunition in the form of inscriptions to combat the arguments of Barth and others, who doubted the authenticity of the Jaina traditions. These inscriptions provided the evidence Buhler looked for. This epigraphical evidence made it clear that Jainism did not arise out of Buddhism, and also that the authenticity of some Jaina traditions was beyond question. In his book entitled On the Indian Sect of the Jainas, Buhler enthusiastically wrote,
Old historical traditions and inscriptions prove the independent existence of the sect of the Jainas even during the first five centuries after Buddha's death, and among the inscriptions are some which clear the Jaina tradition not only from the suspicion of fraud but bear powerful witness to its honesty.69
Fuhrer excavated numerous Jaina inscriptions, sculptures and architectural pieces from Kankālī Ṭīlā, Mathurā. It was a major achievement. Buhler rendered invaluable service by translating, interpreting and editing the Jaina inscriptions discovered from Mathura. Consequently, a great deal of the history and state of Jainiam came to light. But a lot remained obscured due to the indifference and negligence of Fuhrer. Buhler needed Jaina inscriptions from Mathura, and Fuhrer's excavations at Kankālī Țīlā were primarily and principally directed to achieve this end. Of the numerous mounds in Mathurā, Kankali Tīlā was the only one which was completely explored, but Fuhrer
66. EI, I, pp. 371-93.
67. Ibid., pp. 393-7.
68. Ibid., II, pp. 195-212. 69.
OISJ, p. 23.