Outlines of Jainism

Author(s): J L Jaini, F W Thomas
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

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OUTLINES OF JAINISM
be added the actual testimony of the Buddhist scriptures, which refer to Nātā-putta and the sect of Nirgranthas. This almost alone is enough to establish the individuality of Mahāvīra and his sect.
As to the relative antiquity of Jainism and Buddhism, Jaina study is deeply indebted to Professor Jacobi. His introductions, in 1884 and 1894, to vols. xxii and xly of the Sacred Books of the Eust historically proved that, if there was any borrowing between Jainism and Buddhism, it was not on the side of Jainism. Dr. Jacobi's researches may be briefly summarized : for details reference must be made to his learned discussions. He lays down four distinct lines of evidence to prove the antiquity of Jainism :
1. References in old Buddhist books to well-known, acknowledged doctrines of Jaina theology, metaphysics, and ethics: for example,
(1) A reference to cold water possessing a soul (i.e. to jiras, or souls, of the jala-kaya) in the commentary on the Brahmajala Sutta of the Digha Vikāya.
(2) A reference in the same work to the Jaina rejection of the ījivaka doctrine that the soul has colour.
(3) A reference in the Sumañña-phala Sutta of the same Nikāya to the four vows of Pārsva-nātha. This is of special importance, as showing that the Buddhists were also aware of the older tradition of the Jainas with regard to the time and teachings of Pārsvanātha.
(1) A reference in the Majjhima Nikaya (56) to the conversion of Upāli, a lay disciple of Mahāvīra, after