Question

Assertion (A): Tattvartha Sutra is accepted by all major sects of Jainism.
Reason (R): It contains the foundational principle "Samyak darshan-jnana-charitrani mokshamargah".

• (A) and (R) are both true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
• (A) and (R) are both true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
• (A) is true but (R) is false.
• (A) is false but (R) is true.

Hint:

The Tattvartha Sutra is often called the "Jain Bible" due to its universal acceptance and systematic presentation of the entire philosophy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Acharya Umaswati's Tattvartha Sutra (also known as Tattvarthadhigama Sutra) is unique because it is the first Jain scripture written in Sanskrit and is acknowledged as authoritative by both Digambara and Shvetambara sects.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Assertion (A) analysis: It is a historical fact that while Jainism split into sects with different canons, the Tattvartha Sutra remained a common bridge. It summarizes the entire Jain philosophy in 10 chapters. Both sects study it and have written numerous commentaries on it. Thus, (A) is true.
2. Reason (R) analysis: The very first sutra of this text is "Samyak darshan-jnana-charitrani mokshamargah" (Right belief, right knowledge, and right conduct together constitute the path to liberation). This "Triple Jewel" (Ratnatraya) theory is the absolute foundation of Jainism across all sects.
3. Correlation: Because the text captures such universal, non-sectarian, and foundational principles in a concise Sanskrit aphorism style, it gained acceptance across the entire Jain community. Thus, (R) is the correct explanation for why (A) is true.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) explains (A).