The Date of Mahavira

Summary

The article "The Date of Mahavira" by Yogendra Mishra examines the various scholarly perspectives on the death date of Mahavira, which is crucial for ancient Indian chronology. Two primary dates for Mahavira's death are debated: 527 B.C. and 467 B.C. These dates are based on different traditions and interpretations from Jain and Buddhist sources. 1. 527 B.C. Date: This date is supported by Merutunga's 14th-century writings, which align the death of Mahavira with the victory of Vikrama. However, this date is criticized by Charpentier for its reliance on unreliable Jaina chronologies that mix various dynastic reigns, particularly those of the Nandas and Mauryas. Furthermore, it contradicts the Buddhist tradition, which places Mahavira's death before Buddha's. 2. 467 B.C. Date: Hemacandra, a 12th-century Jain author, suggests that Mahavira died 155 years before the rise of Chandragupta Maurya. This date is more closely aligned with the Buddhist tradition that places Buddha's death around 477 B.C., making Mahavira and Buddha contemporaries. However, this date has challenges, especially from the Buddhist texts, which state that Mahavira died before Buddha. The article also explores several other theories and specific references, including: • The Kalpa Sutra: The date of Mahavira’s nirvana is marked by significant events, such as the crowning of Chandragupta Maurya. • The 470-year gap: This gap between Mahavira's death and the Vikrama era foundation (58 B.C.) is commonly used in Jain chronology but is disputed for its historical accuracy. • Buddhist references: The Buddhist tradition has several accounts where Mahavira and Buddha are mentioned together, suggesting they were contemporaries. Specific rainy seasons spent by both in Rajagrha are used as a timeline for synchronization. After examining these sources, the author concludes that Mahavira's death occurred in 490 B.C., with his birth in 561 B.C. This conclusion harmonizes with the Buddhist accounts of their contemporaneity, such as their shared rainy seasons at Rajagrha. This date also corrects previous miscalculations where 72 years were added incorrectly to determine Mahavira's birthdate. The article provides a detailed analysis of the historical records and argues for a revised understanding of Mahavira's life timeline, ultimately suggesting 490 B.C. as the most consistent date of death, in line with the Buddhist texts and Jain traditions.