Answer

Jain scriptures were written in several languages, not just one. The main early language was Ardhamagadhi Prakrit.

Explanation

• Shvetambara Jain Agamas are mainly in Ardhamagadhi Prakrit.
• Some later Jain texts are in Sanskrit.
• Other Jain works are also found in Maharashtri Prakrit, Shauraseni Prakrit, and Apabhramsha.
• In later times, Jain literature was also written in regional languages such as Gujarati, Rajasthani, Hindi, Kannada, and others.

Spiritual Understanding

The use of different languages helped Jain teachings reach people in different times and regions. Still, the original sacred style of many Jain scriptures remains deeply connected with Prakrit, especially Ardhamagadhi.

Takeaway

So, the main language of early Jain scriptures is Ardhamagadhi Prakrit, but Jain literature exists in many languages.