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Bibliographical Aids for the Study of Jainism
Urmi Bhagwatı 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 vear 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would be most appropriate if we start an active study in this field by launching poi jects to edit and publish the yet unpublished texts, to develope centres for the study of Jainism, (and so on) Compilation of further bibliographical aids would be a very useful step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-Bibliographre 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
