Important Jaina Scholars

When we speak of Jainism as a Dharma-sampradaya with rich philosophical depth, literary output, and ethical practice — we must recognize the contribution of great Acharyas, Ganadharas, and monks. Let’s understand their role chronologically and themewise, so the evolution becomes easy to trace.

1. Indrabhuti Gautama (6th–5th Century BCE)

• 🧓 Senior-most of the 11 Ganadharas (chief disciples) of Mahavira.
• 📿 He attained Kevala Jnana (perfect knowledge) immediately after Mahavira’s Nirvana.
• His leadership was instrumental in preserving the initial oral tradition of Mahavira’s teachings.
• Often regarded as the intellectual bridge between Mahavira and the first generation of followers.

2. Sudharman (6th–5th Century BCE)

• One of the original Ganadharas of Mahavira.
• Succeeded Indrabhuti Gautama as the head of the Jaina Sangha after Mahavira’s passing.
• He played a critical role in maintaining continuity of Jainism through oral transmission.

3. Bhadrabahu (4th Century BCE)

🧙 The last Jain Acharya with the knowledge of the lost 14 Purvas.

• Spiritual teacher of Chandragupta Maurya
• Founder of the Digambara tradition
• Migrated to Shravanabelagola (Karnataka) during the 12-year famine, leading to the southward spread of Jainism.
• Major Works:
  • Kalpa Sutra – Contains biographies of Tirthankaras like Mahavira and Parshvanatha.
  • Bhadrabahu Charita
  • Vasudeva Charita
  • Niryuktis – Short commentaries on 10 of the 12 Agamas.

🗿 His departure created the historical split between Digambaras (followers of Bhadrabahu) and Shvetambaras.

4. Sthulabhadra (3rd Century BCE)

• Disciple of Bhadrabahu
• Founder of the Shvetambara sect.
• Stayed back in Magadha during the famine when others migrated south.
• Instrumental in preserving and compiling Agamas in the north.

5. Siddhasena Divakara (Kumudachandra) (5th Century CE)

• A celebrated Shvetambara monk and philosopher.
• He synthesized Jain logic with other Indian philosophical systems.
• Major Works:
  • Nyayavatara – An important work on logic.
  • Sanmati Tarka Prakarana – A philosophical treatise.
  • Kalyana Mandira Stotra – 44 verses in praise of Parshvanatha.

💡 He emphasized Anekantavada — the Jain concept of multiple viewpoints.

6. Haribhadra Suri (8th Century CE)

• A profound scholar who wrote on Jainism vis-à-vis other Indian darshanas.
• Major Works:
  • Shad Darshan Samucchaya – Comparative analysis of six Indian philosophical schools.
  • Dhurtakhyan and Samaraichcha – Narrative works reflecting Jain values.

7. Somadeva Suri (10th Century CE)

• Focused on ethics, statecraft, and Jain lay conduct.
• Important Works:
  • Upasakadhyayana – A guide for Śrāvakas (lay devotees).
  • Nitivakyamrita – A treatise on ethics and politics, blending Jain ideals with practical governance.
  • Yashastilaka – Philosophical novel written in Sanskrit promoting Jain thought.

8. Hemachandra Suri (11th–12th Century CE)

🏰 The Jain Acharya who influenced kings and crafted grammar.

• Prominent Shvetambara Acharya and polymath.
• Close to Solanki rulers like Siddharaja Jayasimha and Kumarapala.
• Major Works:
  • Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Charitra – Biography of 63 ideal beings (Tirthankaras, Chakravartins, etc.)
  • Parishishtaparvan – Supplementary accounts of teachers and events.
  • Siddha-Hemachandra Shabdanushasana – A seminal grammar of Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Apabhramsa
  • Kumarapala Charita – Biography of King Kumarapala.

🎓 Hemachandra was so revered that he was called “Kavi-ratna” (jewel among poets) and “Kalikaal Sarvajna” (omniscient of his age).

9. Merutunga (14th Century CE)

• Known for his literary storytelling and historical narratives.
• Authored Prabandha-Chintamani, a collection of anecdotes, parables, and biographical sketches.

10. Hiravijaya Suri (16th Century CE)

🕌 The Jain monk who impressed Akbar.

• A learned Shvetambara scholar invited by Emperor Akbar to Ibadatkhana in Fatehpur Sikri.
• Converted Akbar to vegetarianism and influenced his policy of religious tolerance.
• Akbar gave him the honorific “Jagatguru” (World Teacher).