The ‘Tattvarthadhigamasutra’, regarded as the first book on Jaina philosophy, was authored by _____.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The Tattvarthadhigamasutra (also known as the Tattvartha Sutra) is considered the most important and foundational text of Jain philosophy. It was composed by Acharya Umaswati (Umaswami in the Digambara tradition).
Key facts about the Tattvartha Sutra:
Historical significance: It is the first Jain text written in Sanskrit. Most earlier Jain texts were in Prakrit (Ardhamagdhi).
Universal acceptance: It is the only text considered equally authoritative by both major sects of Jainism—the Svetambara and Digambara.
Content: It contains 10 chapters and approximately 350 sutras. It explains the seven elements of Jain philosophy (jiva, ajiva, asrava, bandha, samvara, nirjara, and moksha).
Famous aphorisms: The most famous aphorism of this text is "Parasparopagraho Jivanam," which means "it is the duty of living beings to help one another." This is also the official motto of Jainism today.