Q1. The canonical texts of Jainism are collectively known as:
- Vedas
- Agamas
- Tripitaka
- Sutras
Correct Option: 2. Agamas
Explanation: In Jainism, the sacred scriptures are known as Agamas (or Siddhanta in Digambara tradition). These texts are believed to be based on the teachings of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara.
They are written in Ardha-Magadhi Prakrit, a language accessible to common people.
• Shvetambaras accept these as canonical.
• The Agamas include the 12 Angas, which cover ethics, cosmology, monastic rules, and logic.
Other options:
• Vedas: Hindu scriptures
• Tripitaka: Buddhist canon
• Sutras: A general term, not exclusive to Jainism
Q2. The Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana was authored by:
- Hemachandra
- Tolkappiyar
- Jinasena
- Banabhatta
Correct Option: 3. Jinasena
Explanation: Acharya Jinasena, a 9th-century Digambara Jain monk, composed the Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana, a major Jain text.
• The title means “Great story of 63 illustrious beings” and includes life stories of the 24 Tirthankaras, along with kings, heroes, and other spiritual figures.
• The work discusses Jain cosmology, rituals, and ideal ethical conduct.
• It was later completed by Gunabhadra, his disciple.
Q3. The language of the earliest Jain texts is:
- Sanskrit
- Tamil
- Ardha-Magadhi
- Maharashtri
Correct Option: 3. Ardha-Magadhi
Explanation: Ardha-Magadhi, a Prakrit dialect, was the language of the earliest Jain texts, particularly the Agamas.
• It was widely spoken in eastern India, where Mahavira preached.
• It helped communicate complex religious teachings to the masses.
• Later Jain texts used Maharashtri Prakrit and Sanskrit, especially for commentaries.
Q4. Who presided over the Jain Council at Valabhi in the 5th–6th century CE?
- Devarddhi Kshamashramana
- Acharya Kundakunda
- Bhadrabahu
- Chandragupta
Correct Option: 1. Devarddhi Kshamashramana
Explanation: The Jain Council at Valabhi, held in 5th–6th century CE, was led by Devarddhi Kshamashramana.
• The council aimed to preserve the Jain Agamas, many of which were being forgotten.
• The scriptures were finally compiled and written down, especially for the Shvetambara sect.
• It ensured the standardization of Jain teachings for future generations.
Q5. Which Jain text provides a Jain version of the Mahabharata story?
- Adi Purana
- Parishishtaparvan
- Harivamsha Purana
- Tattvartha Sutra
Correct Option: 2. Parishishtaparvan
Explanation: The Parishishtaparvan, written by Hemachandra in the 12th century CE, is a Jain supplement to the Mahabharata.
• It presents the epic’s stories from a Jain ethical and philosophical viewpoint.
• It also contains biographies of Jain teachers and some historical events.
• It reflects the Jain tendency to reinterpret mainstream Indian epics to suit Jain principles such as non-violence, renunciation, and truth.