Question

Which of the following statements about Jainism are correct? Select the correct answer from the codes given below.

1. The Jains were also known as Nirgranthas, or those who severed all ties.
2. The Svetambaras believed that Vardhamana Mahavira was never married.
3. According to the Jain tradition, the first Tirthankara was Rishabhanatha or Adinatha.
4. The father of Vardhamana Mahavira was Siddhartha, and the mother was Trisala.

• A. Only ii and iv
• B. Only ii and iii
• C. Only i, ii and iii
• D. Only i, iii and iv

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Only i, iii and iv

Core Principles and Historical Facts of Jainism

• Nirgranthas: The term Nirgrantha (Sanskrit for 'free from bonds') was historically used to refer to Jain monks and followers. It signifies the philosophy of asceticism, where adherents sever all worldly ties and attachments to achieve liberation (Moksha).
• The Tirthankaras: Jainism is traditionally built on the teachings of 24 Tirthankaras (ford-makers). Rishabhanatha (also known as Adinatha) is recognized as the first Tirthankara, while Vardhamana Mahavira was the 24th and final Tirthankara of this era.
• Mahavira's Family: Mahavira was born in Kundagrama (near Vaishali). His father, Siddhartha, was the head of the Jnatrika Kshatriya clan, and his mother, Trisala, was the sister of Chetaka, the powerful king of Vaishali.
• The Digambara vs. Svetambara Schism: The split occurred primarily due to differences in monastic discipline and doctrine.
  • Digambaras (Sky-clad): They believe absolute renunciation requires nudity and argue that women cannot achieve liberation without first being reborn as men.
  • Svetambaras (White-clad): They believe monks and nuns should wear white clothes. Unlike the Digambaras, the Svetambara tradition holds that Mahavira was married to Yashoda and had a daughter named Anojja (or Priyadarshana).
• Significance in Exams: In competitive history sections, questions often focus on the lineage of Tirthankaras, the specific symbols associated with each (e.g., Bull for Rishabhanatha, Lion for Mahavira), and the fundamental differences between the two main sects.