Decimal Classification of Jainistic Studies—A Draft Outline
Summary
Decimal Classification of Jainistic Studies Summary: Sibadas Chaudhuri proposes a decimal classification scheme for organising literature on Jainism, modelled on the Dewey Decimal Classification. He begins with general categories such as bibliographies, catalogues, dictionaries, encyclopedias and gazetteers, then proposes numbers for history of Jaina literature (canonical and non‑canonical) and state‑wise histories of Jainism in Bengal, Karnataka and Orissa. Chaudhuri’s outline lists subcategories for philosophy and religion (including philosophical systems, epistemology, logic, ethics and special topics like anekantavada, avidya, karman and yoga), sects and modifications (Svetambaras, Terapanthis and Digambaras), monastic institutions, relations with other religions and mythology. Further sections cover social and economic history, Jainism’s impact on Indian civilisation, law and relations between state and Jaina order, education and topics related to women and children. The classification proceeds to linguistic studies (Prakrit and Apabhramsa), religious arts and archaeology, architecture, sculpture, painting and museums, biographies of Jaina teachers and acaryas, and travelogues. Chaudhuri invites suggestions and notes that the scheme is based on Dewey’s Section 294.4; he stresses that the outline aims to facilitate library organisation and encourage scholarly research in Jainology.
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Conclusion
By adapting the Dewey Decimal system to Jain studies, Chaudhuri provides a practical tool for libraries and researchers. His classification underscores the breadth of Jain scholarship—from philosophy and sectarian histories to art, literature and sociology—and aims to standardise cataloguing practices. The draft invites feedback, signalling a collaborative effort to refine the framework and support systematic study of Jainism.