Which language was adopted by Jainism as its sacred language in ancient India?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer:
Prakrit
Explanation:
In ancient India, Jainism adopted the Prakrit language (specifically Ardhamagadhi Prakrit) as its sacred and liturgical language. Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, delivered his sermons and teachings in Prakrit, which was the vernacular language of the common people, ensuring that his message reached all sections of society. Furthermore, the canonical texts of Jainism, known as Jain Agamas, are also written in Prakrit.
Additional Points:
While Jainism used Prakrit, Buddhism predominantly used the Pali language to propagate its teachings among the masses, and Vedic/classical Hinduism utilized Sanskrit as its sacred language. Prakrit represents a group of middle Indo-Aryan languages spoken during ancient times.
Important Questions and Answers:
Question: In which language did Lord Mahavira deliver his sermons?
Answer: Prakrit (Ardhamagadhi).
Question: In which language are the sacred texts of Buddhism written?
Answer: Pali language.