The correct option is 1 and 4 only.
Explanation
Jainism is an ancient Indian religion with a long lineage of teachers known as Tirthankaras. Its history involves a significant geographical spread across the Indian subcontinent and a rich literary tradition that utilized multiple languages to disseminate its philosophy.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct. Jainism spread to various parts of South India, including Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. In Tamil Nadu, there is substantial archaeological and literary evidence (such as the Jain caves in Madurai and epics like Silappadikaram) indicating the presence and influence of Jainism from an early period.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect. Jaina scholars did not produce literature exclusively in Sanskrit. The earliest Jain texts were composed in Prakrit (specifically Ardhamagadhi) to make them accessible to the common people. Over time, Jain monks also contributed significantly to literature in Sanskrit, Tamil, Kannada, and Apabhramsha.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect. The philosophy of Jainism was not created entirely by Mahavira. In Jain tradition, Mahavira is regarded as the 24th Tirthankara. He systematized and propagated the teachings of his predecessors, particularly the 23rd Tirthankara, Parsvanatha. The religion has prehistoric roots according to Jain belief, starting with the first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva.
- Statement 4 is Correct. The Uttaradhyayana Sutta is a significant text in the Svetambara canon. It is composed in Prakrit and is believed to contain the last sermons of Lord Mahavira. It lays down the code of conduct and discipline for monks.
Key Takeaway:
Mahavira was a reformer and the 24th Tirthankara, not the founder of Jainism. Jain literature is multilingual, utilizing Prakrit, Sanskrit, Tamil, and Kannada, rather than being restricted to Sanskrit.