Question

Compare and contrast the principles of Jainism and Buddhism

Answer 1

• Similarities between Jainism and Buddhism.

1. Both appeared as revolts against orthodox Brahminical Hinduism.
2. Both Buddhism and Jainism originated in Eastern India.
3. The Jains and the Buddhists equally believe that the world is fall of misery. The object is to deliver the soul from the miseries of the world by eliminating rebirth.
4. Both Mahavira and Buddha rejected the authority of the Vedas.
5. Both denied the existence of God and upheld ascetic life, moral and ethical codes.
6. Both upheld non-violence as means of salvation.
7. Both dismissed caste system.
8. Their followers were mainly from the mercantile class.

• Differences between Jainism and Buddhism.

1. Jainism was an ancient creed which existed before the advent of Mahavira. There were atleast 23 Tirthankaras before Mahavira. But Buddhism was entirely a new creed. It had no existence before Buddha.
2. The Jains ascribe life to plants, stone and water, which the Buddhism reject.
3. The Jains practice rigorous asceticism and self-mortification. But Buddha was opposed to extreme penance and advised a middle path.
4. Discarding the garments was advised by Mahavira, whereas Buddha renounced that.
5. Ahimsa in extreme form was followed by the Jains where as Buddhists believe in Ahimsa.
6. Great missionary zeal was followed by the Buddhists compared to the Jains.
7. While Buddhism has practically vanished from India, Jainism is still a strong living faith having influence upon millions of Indians.