________________
Shraman tradition is said to be Pre-vedic meaning its philosophy being different from the vedas (which were compiled between 15001100BC). Therefore we
had two principle currents prevalent in India during those times. vedic and Shraman with Jainism having it roots in Shraman Culture. The Shramanic
philosophy was systematized by Jain Thirthankars starting from Rishabdev Bhagawan continuing to
Mahavir
long before the Upanishad period, however, now, the intensity grew to a tipping point as Parsavana and ultimately Mahavira and Buddha organized a final assault on the Brahmin Priestly practice of Animal Sacrifice. Within. a few hundred years from this point, animal sacrifices were largely discontinued. The great sage Sankara in the 8th century AD finally assimilated ideas of Vedas, Upanishads, Shramana (Jainism and Buddhism) into what is known as Vedanta.
As we can see, Jainism's origin is much older than 6th century BC since Shraman thought is quite likely to be pre-Aryan. Wandering ascetics. (Shramanas) walked in India during the Vedic period influencing the thought. of people with their values of non-violence, austerities, and transmigration. This can be considered early Jain Philosophy. Both Vedic and Shramana culture have influenced each other for thousands of years. For example, Jain idol worship, Pujas, Bhakti are likely Vedic/Brahmana influences. Therefore, the synthesis of Shramana and Vedic Cultures over the years has resulted in the Indian culture we know today. <>
14 Biennial JAINA Convention 2007
Jain Education International
Photograph by Thomas Dix
109
For Private & Personal Use Only
PEACE THROUGH DIALOGUE
www.jainelibrary.org
