Q. With reference to Indian history, consider the following texts:
1. Nettipakarana
2. Parishishtaparvan
3. Avadanashataka
4. Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana
Which of the above are Jaina texts?
a) 1, 2 and 3
b) 2 and 4 only
c) 1, 3 and 4
d) 2, 3 and 4
Correct Answer: b) 2 and 4 only
Question from UPSC Prelims 2022 GS Paper
Explanation :
Buddhist and Jaina Texts
Nettipakarana is a Buddhist text, specifically part of the Theravada Buddhist canon within the Khuddaka Nikaya of the Sutta Pitaka. It is not associated with Jainism.
Conversely, Parishishtaparvan is indeed a Jaina text. Authored by the 12th-century scholar Hemachandra, it reflects the rich tradition of Jain literature.
Avadanashataka, known for its collection of “Hundred Legends,” forms a part of the Sanskrit Buddhist literature and is not a Jain work.
Lastly, Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana (or Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Charitra) is a significant Jain text by Acharya Hemachandra, detailing the lives of 63 eminent figures in Jainism.
In conclusion, “2 and 4 only” correctly identifies the Parishishtaparvan and Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana as Jaina texts, while the Nettipakarana and Avadanashataka are not.
