Q. The Jain text which describes that Chandragupta embraced Jainism towards the end of his life, is:
(a) Ratnamalika
(b) Jayadhavala
(c) Parishisthaparvan
(d) Dravya-samgraha
Ans: (c) Parishisthaparvan
Explanation: The Jain text that describes Chandragupta embracing Jainism towards the end of his life is (c) Parishisthaparvan.
Parishisthaparvan is a part of the Svetambara Jain canon known as the Kalpa Sutra. It is an important text that provides details about the lives and deeds of various Jain Tirthankaras, including Lord Mahavira. In Parishisthaparvan, it is mentioned that Chandragupta, the founder of the Maurya Empire, renounced his kingdom and embraced Jainism under the guidance of Bhadrabahu, a revered Jain acharya.
According to the text, Chandragupta’s conversion to Jainism took place towards the end of his life when he decided to undertake the rigorous practice of sallekhana, a Jain ritual of fasting unto death. The text describes the events leading to Chandragupta’s spiritual journey and his eventual liberation through sallekhana.
It is important to note that while the Kalpa Sutra is a significant Jain text, historical evidence regarding the details of Chandragupta’s life, including his conversion to Jainism, may vary across different historical sources and traditions.