CONTENTS

Introduction

AGE OF MAHAVIRA

Character of the Age: Social Conditions: Religion and Philosophy: Economic Conditions: Political Conditions:

EARLY LIFE OF MAHAVIRA

Tirthankara Parsva: The Jaina Idea of Biography: Mahavira’s Biographies: Parentage and Birth: Facts of Early Life:

ASCETIC LIFE OF MAHAVIRA

Mahavira’s Natural Bent of Mind: Renunciation: The Ascetic life: Penance: His wanderings: Gosala Mankhaliputra:

ENLIGHTENMENT

Kevalin: Jina: Tirthankara:

ENUNCIATION OF THE TRUTH

Mahavira’s Teachings: View of the world: Fundamental Truths: System of Ethics: Jaina Atheism:

PROPAGATION OF THE DOCTRINE

Conversion of the Ganadharas: Influence at Royal Courts: Licchavis and other Republican Clans: map of Mahavira’s travels: Mahavira’s Community of Followers: Nirvana:

RIVAL SECTS

Classification of Creeds: Buddhists: Ajivikas: Brahmanic Schools: Nihnavas:

CONCLUSION