The first systematisation of the Jain canonical literature took place at ____.

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Pataliputra

Explanation:

• The First Jain Council was held at Pataliputra (modern-day Patna) around 300 BCE.

• It was organized under the leadership of Acharya Sthulabhadra.

• The council was convened to preserve the oral Jain Agamas after a 12-year famine caused disruption in memorization and transmission.

• This was the first attempt to systematize Jain canonical literature, though the compilation was considered incomplete by some Jain sects.

Information Booster:

• The Agamas are the canonical texts of Jainism, originally passed on orally.

• There are two main sects in Jainism: Svetambaras and Digambaras, with differing views on the preservation and authenticity of the Agamas.

Additional Knowledge:

(a) Vallabhi

. Location of the Second Jain Council in 512 CE, under King Dhruvasena

. Final compilation and writing down of Agamas by the Svetambaras

(c) Mathura

. An important Jain religious center, but not the site of the first council

. No major council associated with initial canon compilation held here

(d) Lumbini

. Birthplace of Gautama Buddha and a sacred Buddhist site

. Has no connection with Jain canonical councils