Which of the following Jain councils was held at Vallabhi (Gujarat) in 512 CE under the chairmanship of Devardhi Kshamasramana?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Second

Explanation:

• The Second Jain Council was held in 512 CE at Vallabhi in Gujarat.

• It was presided over by Devardhi Kshamasramana, an important Jain scholar.

• The main objective of this council was to compile and preserve Jain scriptures, which had previously been transmitted orally.

• During this council, the Jain canonical texts were systematically written down.

• The council resulted in the final compilation of the 12 Angas and 12 Upangas, forming the core scriptures of the Svetambara sect.

Information Booster:

• Jain literature was initially transmitted orally by monks, making preservation difficult over time.

• The Vallabhi council played a crucial role in systematizing and preserving Jain religious texts.

Additional Knowledge:

Third (Option a)

• Jain historical tradition does not officially recognize a third Jain council in standard accounts.

• Most Jain sources mention only two major councils.

Fourth (Option c)

• There is no widely accepted fourth Jain council in Jain tradition.

• Some regional meetings occurred but they are not recognized as major councils.

First (Option d)

• The First Jain Council was held at Pataliputra around the 3rd century BCE.

• It was presided over by Sthulabhadra.

• The council attempted to compile the Jain scriptures known as the 12 Angas and addressed issues arising after a severe famine.