In which one of the following languages was the earliest Jain literature compiled?
U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2006
A. Ardh-Magadhi
B. Paali
C. Prakrit
D. Sanskrit
Answer: Ardh-Magadhi
Option a is the correct answer.
The very old writings are in the Jain Agamas, which are written in a language called Ardhamagadhi. Jain monks later wrote explanations about these texts. They also wrote new things in other languages like Sanskrit and Maharashtra Prakrit.