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Bibliographical Aids for the Study of Jainism
Urmi Bhagwati
Jainism and Buddhism originated to show the masses (of people) an easier path for realization; not involving the sacrificial complex, the heirarchy and monopoly of the priests, the evils of the caste system, and the consequent burdens of Brahmanism-the then existing religion. But it is remarkable to note that while Buddhism has literally vanished from India, Jainism exists only in India. And it also forms one of the leading religions of India and has steadfast followers all over the country.
The Jain literature belonging to both the svetambara and the digambara sect is vast. Some canonical texts like the Akaranga Sutra, the Kalpa Sutra, have been translated by Jacobi and publishe in the Sacred Books of the East Series. Other German scholars like Leumann and Weber have also translated and edited several canonical and non-canonical texts. However, many Jain texts are yet to be published. Undoubtedly, research work on Jainism is being carried out independently and also as a part of the Indological studies. Many scholars have also been writing about this ancient religion.
Nevertheless, the bibliographical
sources aiding the promotion of research and study of Jainism are comparatively limited. The present year marks the twenty-five hundreth Nirvana anniversary of Lord Mahavira, and is being celebrated throughout India. Hence, it would be most appropriate if we start an active study in this field by launching porjects to edit and publish the yet unpublished texts, to develope centres for the study of Jainism, (and so on). Compilation of further bibliographical aids would be a very useful step.
In the present article, I would like to enlist the bibliographical aids that have already been published, and point out their scope and limitations to enable research workers and lovers of Jainism to get ready matter on the subject.
Bibliographies:
(1) International Bibliography of the History of Religions (In French-Bibliographie Internationale De L'Historie Des
• This article was prepared under the guidance of Dr. B. Anderson, Librarian, University of Bombay, to whom the writer is very much indebted.
