Jainism - Mahavira and Jain Philosophy — Landmark Events

Landmark Events

The Great Famine and the Jain Schism (c. 3rd Century BCE)

c. 3rd Century BCE

This period marks the most significant schism in Jainism, leading to the formation of its two major sects: Digambara and Svetambara. A severe twelve-year famine in Magadha forced…

First Jain Council (Pataliputra)

c. 3rd Century BCE

Convened by Sthulabhadra in Pataliputra, this council was an attempt to compile and preserve the Jain canon, which was believed to be lost or fragmented after the famine and the…

Second Jain Council (Vallabhi)

c. 5th Century CE (453 or 466 CE)

Held in Vallabhi (Gujarat) under the leadership of Devardhigani Kshamashramana, this council was crucial for the final redaction and writing down of the Svetambara canon. Until…