संस्कृत भाषा एवं साहित्य के क्षेत्र में जैन श्रमण परम्परा का अवदान
By Sagarmal Jain
Summary
This article examines the contributions of the Jain Śramaṇa tradition to Sanskrit language and literature. It traces how Jain monks not only composed religious texts but also produced grammars, lexicons and poetic treatises that influenced secular literary culture. The study highlights luminaries such as Umāsvāti, who systematised Jain doctrine in Sanskrit; Hemacandra, whose Sanskrit grammar rivalled that of Pāṇini and whose thesaurus remains a key reference; and Jinasena, known for his poetic works. The article underscores the Jain role in preserving manuscripts and establishing libraries, particularly during periods when Brahmanical scholars neglected certain texts. It also notes the Jain practice of translating Prakrit and Apabhraṃśa works into Sanskrit to reach wider audiences. The author argues that the ethos of non‑possessiveness fostered a culture of knowledge sharing, allowing Jain scholars to work across sectarian boundaries. Examples of Jain influence in the fields of metrics, poetics and dramatic theory illustrate the breadth of their engagement.
Conclusion
By documenting the scholarly achievements of Jain monks, the article reveals how the Śramaṇa tradition enriched Sanskrit studies. Their grammars, lexicons and translations not only preserved Jain doctrine but also broadened India’s literary horizon, demonstrating the community’s dedication to knowledge.