Why Does Jain Have a Different Ramayana Version: Implications and Perspectives

There are numerous versions of the Ramayana, a classic Hindu epic. The belief that only one version is correct and all others are wrong is inaccurate. People should read the version that resonates with their beliefs without dismissively labeling other versions as wrong.

Understanding the Jain Perspective

According to Jaina scriptures, there were a total of nine Wars of Destruction throughout history, including the Ramayana and Mahabharata in the current descending time cycle. These Wars of Destruction caused extensive destruction of life and property. The Ramayana and Mahabharata, respectively, were the 8th and 9th wars of destruction.

The Ramayana

The Ramayana was fought between the 8th Vasudev Lakshman and the 8th Prativasudev Raavan, spanning the period from the 20th Tirthankar Munisuvrat to the 21st Tirthankar Naminath. These figures are from the Jain time line and differ from the Hindu interpretations of the epic.

The Mahabharata

The Mahabharata, on the other hand, was fought between the 9th Vasudev Krishna and the 9th Prativasudev Jaraasandha during the time of the 22nd Tirthankar Neminath. This further highlights the differing perspectives and timelines within the epics.

Two Streams of Thought in Ancient India

From ancient times, two distinct streams of thought prevailed in India: Sramans and Vedics. Sramans, including the present-day Jains, do not accept the Vedas and have their separate canonical texts. The Vedics, comprising the different branches of present-day Hinduism, accept the Vedas as supreme authority.

Both the Jains and Hindus have depicted the Ramayana and Mahabharata in line with their respective philosophies. Without judgment, it is crucial to study both versions and draw a well-rounded conclusion. The Jain epics are particularly rational and reliable, as they present characters and circumstances governed by the universal laws of karma without exception.

Jain Epics: Rational and Reliability

The Jain epics not only recount the Ramayana and Mahabharata but also the previous seven wars of destruction. Earlier lives of the Shalakapurushas (remarkable/famous people like Rama, Lakshman, Krishna, Narasimha, etc.) are also detailed in the Jain epics. These beings were saviors of humanity and were later worshipped as various avatars of Vedic deities, such as Vishnu and Mahesha (Shiva).

Conclusion

It is an individual's personal choice to consider either the Jain or Hindu source as authentic after a thorough study of the epics from both perspectives. Both the Sramanic and Vedic traditions offer valuable insights into the foundational narratives of Indian culture, and understanding these nuances enriches our appreciation of the rich tapestry of Indian mythology and traditions.

Note: Shalakapurushas are remarkable/famous people like Ramchandra, Lakshman, Krishna, Narasimha, etc. They were mighty kings in their times and were later worshipped in the form of different avatars of Vedic deities, such as Vishnu and Mahesha (Shiva).

PEACE!