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JAINAS CONTRIBUTION TO SOCIAL HISTORY OF ANDHRA PRADESH
Dr. G. Jawaharlal Former Director (OMLRI) Tirupati- AP)
Andhra was the cradle of Jainism,, It remained as a popular religion throughout amongst almost all the ruling dynasties and the masses especially the business class. Jainism unlike Buddhism, reached its pinnacle of glory in Andhra during medieval period between 10th-15th centuries A.D, The epigraphical sources clearly state that the kings gave donations to the Jaina basadis with the pressure of the people. This indicates that Jainism penetrated into the hearts of the people. Such a well popular Jainism definitely played a vital role in contributing social, religious and literary history of Andhradesa. Further, the Jaina sources also reveal as to how the Jainas dominated the political and social life of the Andhra from the early period. Hence, an attempt is made here to identify the part played, by Jainas in the linguistic as well as social development of the Andhra.
The Jaina sources like literary and archaeological frequently refer to the Srestin (head of a merchant guild.), sarthavaha (a merchant), gandhika (perfume seller), svarnakara (goldsmith), vardhakin (carpenter), lauhakarmaka (black smith)/ navika (sailor), nartaka (dancer), vesya (prostitute), classes from the general masses and also different gostis (guilds of traders) who made a significant contribution towards Jainism'. In short, all walks of Andhras came under the influence of Jainism and fervently followed its path. Jaina-dharma, which is identical with Ahimsa -dharma, leads to spiritual development of the people. A person who observes this principle must get rid of himself completely of all gross emotions, such as hatred, anger, etc. Thus, it is based on a much nobler ideal - love your enemies, return good for evil. Jainas also emphasised that life irrespective of species, cast, colour, creed, etc.. is sacred and each creature therefore, has a sanctity and dignity. Respect for the self and others is seen in Jaina aphorism- 'to live peacefully and let live fearlessly'.
Thus, Jainas imbibed the religious tolerance in the society. It's principles like aparigraha and anekantavada are mainly to curb philosophical conflicts and social imbalances. According to aparigraha (i.e., not to be greedy for possessions) vow, every individual should realise that his life was meant partly for himself and mainly for the whole society. In a word, individual-welfare was linked with the general welfare. If we follow this ideal there would be no disagreements, struggles among the people. This lofty ideal was contributed by Jainas in the earliest days of Indian history for the welfare of the whole society. In order to prevent social conflicts, the Jainas developed the philosophy of anekantavada, which allows for the understanding of all points of reality, despite its contrary relationships. The idea of anekantavada is Jainism's greatest contribution to human thought. It fosters tolerance, respect for another's point of view, reconciliation, co-existence and co-operation. With these lofty ideals Jainism tried to make the people most courteous and ready
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