History of Hindu Mathematics: A Source Book v1.c7.s2.5

v1.c7.s2.5

Importance to the culture of *Gaṇita* (mathematics) is also given by the Jainas. Their religious literature is generally classified into four branches, called *anuyoga* ("exposition of principles"). One of them is *gaṇitânuyoga* ("the exposition of the principles of mathematics"). The knowledge of *Saṁkhyâna* (literally, "the science of numbers," meaning arithmetic and astronomy) is stated to be one of the principal accomplishments of the Jaina priest.² In Buddhist literature too, arithmetic (*gaṇanâ*, *saṁkhyâna*) is regarded as the first and the noblest of the arts.³ All these will give a fair idea of the importance and value set upon the culture of *gaṇita* in ancient India.