War Science in Ancient India (from the Jaina sources)

Summary

Contrary to the assumption that Jain literature is solely quietist, this article collates scattered references to the science of war in Jaina sources to reconstruct ancient Indian military thought. It catalogues causes of war (greed, honour, policy), the structure of armies (elephants, chariots, cavalry, infantry), and the logistics of muster, training and camp life. Technical notes mention specialized weapons, signalling, music for morale, and even “divine” arms as literary motifs. The piece also attends to ethics: prudent diplomacy before aggression, rules for non‑combatants, and prescriptions against wanton cruelty. Episodes—from embassies and coded gifts signalling war intent, to battlefield arrangements and medical care—are read to show that Jaina authors, while extolling ahimsa, observed the world as it is and recorded statecraft with realism. The takeaway is not militarism but moral lucidity: even when power is exercised, restraint, proportionality and compassion must discipline it. For historians, the survey widens the evidentiary base beyond the usual epics, while for Jain readers it clarifies that ahimsa includes wise governance that prevents greater harms.