The history of Jainism after Lord Mahavira
is recorded in the Jaina literature preserved in various Indian
languages. The most momentous event, which occurred about 80 A.D. was
the division of the Jain community into two sects: Svetambara
(white-robed) and Digambara (sky robed). The split did not incur
doctrinal or moral differences but only dissent on the basis of religious
practices.
In the year 453 A.D. a major council was
held at Vailabhi in order to establish Mahavira�s teaching which had been
preserved through oral traditions. The outcome of this council was the
writing of the Jaina canon. The Svetambara sect granted it fully validity
but the Digambara questioned its authenticity. Instead, the latter
canonized the literature of Acarya Kundakunda and his followers, The
modern scholar must draw on both traditions to glean the truth of the
original teachings of Lord Mah@vira.
The Jaina literature is a rich compendium of
diverse interests and is written in several Indian languages so as to
reach all people. The writings of these Acaryas as having �manifold
attractions� not only for those in Jaina studies but for lovers of
literature, history, culture, philosophy, and comparative religion. It is
to this vast source that we now turn for an understanding of Jaina beliefs
of the universe, religion and morality.
