International Jain Conference 1985 3rd Conference

Author(s): Satish Jain, Kamalchand Sogani
Publisher: Ahimsa International

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The great contribution of Jainism in social sphere is that it observed no distinction of caste and creed. According to it, religious salvation is the birthright of every one, and it is assured if one follows the prescribed rules of conduct. According to it, birth is nothing, caste is nothing but action is everything. The doctrine of Karma (action) made the individual conscious of his responsibility for all actions. One becomes a Brahmana or a Kshatriya or a Vaisya or a Sudra by one's actions. Even at the time of Mahavira, Jainism was accepted by a large number of men and women belonging to different castes and classes. Several contemporary kings, queens, princes and ministers became his followers. His chief eleven disciples known as Ganadharas were also Brahmanas who helped the master in spreading his faith. Besides, he attracted a large number of rich bankers and merchants. He also tried his best for improving the lot of the oppressed people of Vajrabhumi and Svabhrabhumi by his teachings. Even after Mahavira, Jainism observed no distinction of caste and creed based on birth. The Nanda ruler and Chandragupta Maurya, who are said to be the Jainas, were of humble caste. The early medieval period was the most flourishing time for Jainism in India. Most of the ruling dynasties in one way or other came under the influence of Jainism. A.S. ALTEKAR holds the view that probably one-third of the Deccan was the follower of Jainism. Even in Northern India, a large number of people accepted Jainism and formed the castes of Osavala, Khandelawala, Porawala, Agrawala, etc.
Another notable contribution of Jainism in social sphere is that it made no distinction of sex by admitting women into the Jaina Sangha. They used to lead a life of celibacy with the aim of understanding and following the eternal truths of religion and philosophy. Ajita, Chandana and Jayanti were the famous nun-disciples of Mahavira. These nuns were permitted to study Jajna scriptures. Some of them were learned scholars. Haribhadrasuri, a notable scholar of Jainism of the eighth century A. D., was deeply inspired by a Jaina nun. By wandering from place to place, even now nuns by their noble conduct and teachings inspire the masses.
One noteworthy feature of Jainism is that it made laity as also monks participants in the Jaina Sangha by imposing certain strict rules of conduct. As a consequence, laymen of Jainism became greatly conscious, disciplined and enlightened. They kept a watchful eye on the monks. This type of organization gave the Jaina a deep root in India, and that root firmly planted amongst the laity enabled Jainism to withstand the storm that drove Buddhism out of India. Besides, by occupying the influential posts of administration and by becoming leaders of society, these laymen gave proper guidance to the society from time to time.
Professor and Head, School of Studies in Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology. Vikram University, Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)
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