Samrat Samprati

Recently, the Prime Minister of India inaugurated the Samrat Samprati Museum in Gujarat. The museum has been established to honour the legacy and contributions of Samrat Samprati, who is remembered as a great patron of Jainism and non-violence.

About Samrat Samprati

Samrat Samprati was a ruler of the Mauryan Dynasty who ruled approximately between 224 BC and 215 BC. He was the grandson of Ashoka, one of the greatest rulers in Indian history.

He was also known by other names such as Indrapalit, Sangat, and Vigatashok.

Samrat Samprati is especially remembered for his efforts in spreading Jainism and promoting the principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) across different regions.

Due to his immense contribution to Jainism, Samrat Samprati is often referred to as the “Jain Ashoka.”

Contribution to Jainism

Samrat Samprati played a major role in the expansion and propagation of Jainism. Historical Jain texts mention that he actively supported Jain monks and established centres of Jain culture not only in India but also in regions such as Iran and Arab countries.

It is believed that he constructed thousands of Jain temples across western and southern India, helping in the spread of Jain philosophy and culture.

His life and achievements are described in important Jain scriptures such as:

• Sampratikatha

• Parishistaparva

• Prabhavakcharita

Samrat Samprati used royal patronage to spread the values of peace, non-violence, and Jain teachings across different regions.

About Jainism

Jainism is one of the ancient religions of India and belongs to the Sramanic tradition. The word Sramana refers to an ascetic or monk who follows a disciplined spiritual life.

Jainism traces its teachings through 24 Tirthankaras, who are spiritual teachers guiding people toward liberation.

The 24th and last Tirthankara was Mahavira, also known as Vardhamana Mahavira.

Goal of Jainism

The primary aim of Jainism is the attainment of Moksha or Nirvana, which means liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

To achieve liberation, Jainism emphasizes the Three Jewels (Triratnas):

• Samyak Darshana – Right Faith

• Samyak Jnana – Right Knowledge

• Samyak Charita – Right Conduct

Panchamahavratas (Five Great Vows)

Jainism prescribes five major vows, especially for monks and ascetics, known as the Panchamahavratas:

1. Ahimsa – Non-violence

2. Satya – Truthfulness

3. Asteya – Non-stealing

4. Aparigraha – Non-possession or non-hoarding

5. Brahmacharya – Celibacy or continence

Among these, Ahimsa is considered the most important principle.

Significance of Samrat Samprati

Samrat Samprati occupies an important place in Indian history because of his efforts to spread Jain philosophy and ethical values. His reign reflected the ideals of peace, tolerance, and non-violence.

The establishment of the Samrat Samprati Museum highlights the importance of preserving India’s spiritual and cultural heritage and spreading awareness about Jain contributions to Indian civilization.