Similarities and Differences between Jainism and Buddhism

Jainism and Buddhism were the most dominant reform movements. Jainism and Buddhism are primarily concerned with the purification and liberation of the soul from the endless cycle of death and rebirth. The major cause for the growth of Jainism and Buddhism was the religious turmoil in India in the 6th century. Jainism was introduced by Lord Mahavira, whereas Gautam Buddha introduced Buddhism. Both religions didn’t believe in the varnas of the caste. They assisted others and made an impact. These two religions showcase beautiful teaching and values. In this article, we will discuss the main teachings of Jainism and Buddhism.

Jainism 

Jainism is one of the ancient religions in India. It was established in Northern India and spread all over India. Jainism is eternal with 24 Tirthankaras. Jainism is centred on the teachings of Mahavira. Jainism can be divided into two sub religions which are:

• Svetambara

• Digambara

The five main factors of Jainism are 

• Ahimsa (non-violence)

• Satya (truth)

• Brahmacharya (sexual continence)

• Aparigraha (non-possessiveness)

• Asteya (non-stealing)

These teachings have influenced Jain culture in many ways, such as directing a vegetarian lifestyle. Jainism also follow the three guiding principles, which are:

• Right belief 

• Right knowledge

• Right conduct  

The principle of Ahimsa is the most important in Jainism. It says that one must abandon all violent activities and follow the path of Ahimsa.Jainism not only teaches non-violence in acts but also believes in non-violence in speech. 

According to Jain philosophy, it is believed that humans are encompassed with the material body and spiritual soul. The consciousness and unconsciousness, which is jiva and ajiva, are two things that encompass the entire human existence. Jiva is related to our invisible soul and demonstrates the material body. And ajiva is related to the lack of consciousness. There is a connection between jiva and ajiva, which is karma or actions. If anyone does wrong in the present life, it will be repaid with the endless cycle of rebirth. “Ahimsa parmo dharma” is the main mantra in Jainism. 

The main teaching in Jainism.

The main teachings of Jainism are as follows:-

• Non-violence is a prominent teaching of Jainism. No damage should be done to any living being. 

• Not to indulge in sensual pleasure. 

• Complete detachment from the materialistic world.

• Purification and liberation of the soul from the endless cycle of birth and rebirth.

• Speak the truth.

• Control of our desires and senses.

Buddhism 

Buddhism is an Indian religion based on Gautama Buddha’s teachings. It propagated somewhere between the 4th to 6th centuries. Buddhism comprises many traditions, beliefs and practices based on the teachings of Gautam Buddha. As conveyed in the four noble truths, Buddhism teaches to overcome suffering caused by desire and ignorance of reality. The literary language of Buddhism scripts is found mainly in Pali and Sanskrit languages. Buddhism explains that desire and attachments cause suffering to humans because of their ignorance of true nature’s existence. The four noble truths proposed by Buddhism are as follows:-

• Life is suffering.

• The cause of suffering is desire.

• The end of suffering will come when there is an end of desire.

• Some paths can lead to ignorance of desires.

The main teachings of Buddhism are:

• The cycle of birth and rebirth can only be broken when you attain nirvana.

• Right view.

• Right speech 

• Right mindfulness 

• Good efforts.

Similarities between Jainism and Buddhism.

Many similarities between Jainism and Buddhism are seen; some of them are as follows:- 

• Both religions don’t believe in the existence of the creator God.

• Both religions believe in the cycle of birth and rebirth, and salvation can only be gained by nirvana.

• Jainism and Buddhism both didn’t believe in the varnas of the caste; they helped others and taught their values to others.

• Both religions propagated in Magadh.

•  Both religions believe in helping other people.

• Both religions believe in the purification of the soul. 

• Both religions teach to stay away from the materialistic world and desires.

Difference between Jainism and Buddhism

Here are the major difference between these two are as follow: 

• Between these two, Jainism was the one that acknowledged the presence of God, while Buddhism did not recognise God.

• Jainism does not criticise the varna system. Meanwhile, Buddhism does.

• Buddhism does not acknowledge reincarnation, while Jainism does.

• Buddhism specifies a middle path while Jainism endorses its believers to live a life of complete strictness.

Conclusion 

Jainism and Buddhism occurred as the dominant religion in India. Jainism and Buddhism share ethical principles and teachings. These two religions played important roles in religious practices. Both religions are primarily concerned with the soul’s liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth. Jainism follows three guiding principles: right belief, right knowledge, and right conduct. Buddhism is established on the teachings of Gautam Buddha. The four noble truths are life is suffering, cause of suffering is desire, suffering will end when there is an end of desires, and some paths lead to ignorance of desires.