Jainism and Karnataka Culture

Author(s): S R Sharma
Publisher: Karnataka Historical Research Society Dharwar

Page 21

xvii
CONTENTS bara Jaina nuns–Testimony of Belgoļa inscriptions Other evidences-Southern pontificates—Too many divisions restricting social intercourse lead to social decay. Pp. 142~-168
CONCLUSION Misconceptions regarding Jaina history—No Jaina period according to Smith-Hasty conclusions based on inadequate information-Fergusson on materials of study and prospects of result-Extent of Influence : From commencement of Christian era to 12th century A. D. prominent in South India-On the West Coast up to 17th century- Almost all dynasties large and small under Jaina influence during this period—No district without Jaina vestiges—Influence on masses indicated by grants-Transformation in Southern Jainism due largely to mass-influence-Causes of Disintegration: Internal and External
-Internally progressive conformity with Hindu practices and beliefs-Division and subdivision into castes and subcastesExternally rise of Saivism, Vaişņavism, Lingāyatism-Mahommedan invasion--Persecutions : Dr. Krişnaswāmi Aiyangār's denial of their truth-Evidences to the contrary-Festivals commemorating persecutions- Jaina temples and cities destroyed by Saivas-Ahimsa : No instance of retaliation by Jainas-Hence Ahimsa their greatest contribution-Metamorphosis of South Indian character-Vegetarianism and docility
-Ahimsa not responsible for failure-Jaina warriors and kings not deterred from fighting for justice-Baicappa ascends to heaven by the destruction of many Konkaộigas--Pessimism : general charge on all Indian religions--Mrs. Sinclair Stevenson's remarks- Jaina achievments in Art, Literature, etc. adequate , answer since pessimism is not creative- Dr. Thomas on similar estimates of Buddhism-Comparison with Christian asceticismJaina view of Soul as that which tends upward till it reaches the top of the universe-Man the master of his destiny - The lowest of creatures has slav&tion-Failure in one life but prospects of self-improvement in future existences-Jaina Ideal of Life according to Sri Kundakundācārya. Pp. 169-177