GS1 PYQ (Mains Answer Writing): Buddhism and Jainism

Discuss the similarities and differences between the basic tenets of Buddhism and Jainism.

Ans: 

​Introduction

Mahavira and Gautama Buddha founded Jainism and Buddhism respectively. Both movements emerged in the same broad historical period partly as reactions against the ritualism and priestly supremacy associated with Vedic orthodoxy. While they share several ethical and soteriological concerns, they differ on key metaphysical doctrines and on the degree of ascetic rigour required for liberation.

Body

Similarities

• Both drew on ideas current in the Upanishadic and other contemporary religious streams. They accepted the broad framework of karma, samsara (cycle of birth and death) and the ultimate goal of liberation - expressed as moksha or nirvana. Both movements appealed to socially marginalised groups and admitted followers irrespective of caste.
• Both rejected elaborate Vedic ritualism and animal sacrifice and placed greater emphasis on ethical conduct than on sacrificial rites. They taught practical moral disciplines as the primary means to liberation rather than devotion to a creator God.
• Both prescribed a moral code stressing non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing and detachment. Buddhism summed up its practical teaching in the Noble Eightfold Path, while Jainism emphasised the three jewels of right faith, right knowledge and right conduct as the path to liberation.

Differences

• On metaphysics and soul - Jainism is committed to a pluralistic realism that asserts the existence of individual souls (jiva) in living beings; every living being has a soul that can attain liberation. Buddhism denies a permanent, unchanging soul (anatman) and interprets personal identity as a composite of transient aggregates. On theism, both are essentially non-creationist, but Jain cosmology accepts gods within a non-creator universe, whereas early Buddhism is generally non-theistic in soteriology.
• Differences in practice and social outlook - Jainism developed a more rigorous ascetic ideal and an extreme interpretation of ahimsa (non-violence), leading to strict vegetarianism and careful avoidance of harming even small life-forms. Buddhism also places great emphasis on non-harm and compassion, but historically allowed more flexibility in dietary practice and adaptation in different cultural settings. Regarding gender and renunciation, Jain traditions typically hold that full liberation requires the highest ascetic discipline; views on women's eligibility for liberation vary between Jain sects (for example, classical Digambara positions were restrictive), while Buddhism formally admitted women into the monastic order and its teachings do not posit an ontological barrier based on gender.
• Conclusion: Buddhism and Jainism share a common reformist impulse, ethical focus and goal of liberation from rebirth. They differ, however, in metaphysical commitments (notably the question of a permanent soul), the degree of ascetic strictness, interpretations of ahimsa, and certain social doctrines. As W. W. Hunter observed, despite common origins and shared concerns, "Jainism is as much independent from other sects, especially from Buddhism, as can be expected from any other sect."

Topics covered - Buddhism & Jainism