जैन पुराणों में प्रतिबिम्बित सामाजिक एवं नैतिक जीवन मुल्य

Summary

This research paper examines the social and moral life reflected in Jain Puranas, focusing on the 63 Shalaka Purushas (24 Tirthankaras, 12 Chakravartis, 9 Balabhadras, 9 Narayanas, and 9 Pratinarayanas). The study highlights that Jain Puranic literature, particularly the Mahapurana, Uttarapurana, and Harivanshapurana, provides valuable insights into life values, social systems, governance, and family life. The paper notes that Jain literature is divided into four Anuyogas, with the Prathamānuyoga containing the narratives of these great men. The author emphasizes that these Puranas serve as a mirror of contemporary social, economic, political, and religious conditions. The research specifically attempts to reflect the social life during the times of Rishabhadeva, Neminatha, Rama, and Mahavira, covering the first, middle, and last Tirthankaras to understand the differences in human nature across the eras. The paper discusses the foundational role of Rishabhadeva in establishing social life, including the creation of the three varnas (Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra) based on occupation and merit, the introduction of various arts and sciences, and the establishment of a penal system and taxation principles. It underscores that morality is the foundation of society and that the decline of ethical values leads to the destruction of civilizations. The paper concludes that Jain Puranas establish an ideal of healthy and benevolent social life through the development of the individual, with the ultimate goal being the attainment of the supreme state (moksha).