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CHAPTER VIII Status of Jainism in India
Since Jainism spread all over India in ancient times, the Jainas possess a long and continuous history of their own. It is, therefore, worthwhile to see the status or high position enjoyed by Jainism in relation to other religions and the important Jaina political personalities like rulers, ministers, generals, etc., in different parts of India during the ancient and medieval times.
1. Jainism in East India
(A) In Bihar
In the political history of India in ancient times, East India figured more prominently than any other part of India. From the middle of the seventh centrury B.C. the kingdom of Magadha, the modern south Bihar, had assumed the position of the recognised political centre of India. As Lord Mahāvīra happened to belong to this part of the country, we find that many kings, chiefs and masses gave their full support to Jainism. (i) The Saiśunāga Dynasty
King Chetaka, the most eminent amongst the Lichchhavi princes and the ruler of Vaiśāli, the capital of Videha, was as great patron of Jainism. He gave his sister, princess Trisalā, in marriage to Siddhārtha, to whom Lord Mahāvira was born. As king Chetaka was related to Lord Mahāvira and as Lichchhavīs are often mentioned in the Jaina literature, it is supposed that practically all Lichchhavis were the followers of Jaina religion.
