Question

From the following list, identify the texts written in the Shauraseni Prakrit language:
A. Bhagavati Sutra
B. Shatkhandagama
C. Samavayanga
D. Kasayapahuda
E. Dravyasamgraha

• A. Only A, D, E
• B. Only B, D, E
• C. Only B, C, D
• D. Only A, C, D

Hint:

Broadly speaking, if a text is from the Digambara tradition (like Shatkhandagama or works of Kundakunda), it is Shauraseni. If it is a Shvetambara Anga-Sutra, it is Ardhamagadhi.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Jain Agamas and later literature are written in different dialects of Prakrit. Shauraseni Prakrit is the primary language of the Digambara scriptures, whereas Ardhamagadhi is the language of the Shvetambara Agamas.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Bhagavati Sutra (A): A primary Shvetambara Agama, written in Ardhamagadhi Prakrit.
2. Shatkhandagama (B): The first and most authoritative Digambara text, written in Shauraseni Prakrit by Pushpadanta and Bhutabali.
3. Samavayanga (C): Another Shvetambara Agama, written in Ardhamagadhi.
4. Kasayapahuda (D): A foundational Digambara text on passions (Kashayas), written in Shauraseni Prakrit by Gunadhara.
5. Dravyasamgraha (E): A medieval Digambara philosophical text by Acharya Nemicandra, also written in Shauraseni Prakrit.
Thus, the Shauraseni texts are B, D, and E.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The texts written in Shauraseni are Shatkhandagama, Kasayapahuda, and Dravyasamgraha.