Significance of Prajnapti

Prajnapti, in Jainism, is a feminine noun associated with esoteric knowledge and also pertains to magical arts employed in various contexts, such as by Meghanada and in aiding heroes like Aparajita. In Kavya literature, Prajnapti denotes a science that uncovers the true essence of beings, as seen when it reveals Kalingasena's identity as a cursed Apsaras. Mahayana Buddhism also refers to Prajnapti as a text within the seven Abhidharma texts, highlighting its diverse interpretations across different traditions.1
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In Dutch: Prajnapti; In German: Prajnapti; In Finnish: Prajnapti; In Spanish: Prajnapati

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Prajnapti'

Hinduism Books

Prajnapti in Hinduism denotes a science revealing the true essence of beings, exemplified by informing Madanavega of Kalingasena's true identity as a cursed Apsaras, rather than a mortal.

Significance in Kavya (poetry):
Kavya Books

From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)

(1) A science that reveals the true nature of beings; in this context, it informs Madanavega that Kalingasena is not a mortal but an Apsaras who has been cursed.[1]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or ‘epic poetry’ and natya, or ‘dramatic poetry’.

Jain concept of 'Prajnapti'

Jainism Books

Prajnapti in Jainism can be interpreted as a magical art aiding figures like Aparajita and Anantavirya. It signifies esoteric knowledge, represented as a feminine noun, and was used by Meghanada to access Mt. Mandara.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) The magic art utilized by Meghanada to reach Mt. Mandara.[2] (2) A feminine noun used for name of a vidya; indicates the connection to esoteric knowledge.[3] (3) One of the magical arts that came to assist Aparajita and Anantavirya in a challenging situation.[4]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Prajnapti in local and regional sources

History Books

Prajnapti is a term visible in the title of the Illustrated Shri Bhagavati Sutra, indicating its role in defining and explaining the specific content of these significant texts.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: History of Science in South Asia

(1) Prajnapti is a term that is included in the title of the Illustrated Shri Bhagavati Sutra, and it is used to describe the specific content of the texts.[5]