Difference Between Jainism and Buddhism
Jainism and Buddhism are two important ancient Indian religions that emerged as a reform movement in the 6th century Bc. Both religions believed in non-violence, karma and the cycle of rebirth. But, they differ in their approaches to liberation, with Buddhism emphasizing the Middle Path and Jainism advocating asceticism and non-possession. The differences Between Jainism and Buddhism are as follows:
Features | Jainism | Buddhism |
---|---|---|
Founder | Lord Mahavira (24th Tirthankara) | Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha |
Central Concept | Liberation (moksha) through self-discipline | Nirvana (liberation from suffering) through the Eightfold Path |
Language of Scriptures | Ardhamagadhi for scriptures | Pali for early scriptures (Tripitaka) |
Religious Text |
Scriptures include Tripitaka |
Jain religious texts are called Agamas |
Fourfold Path | Right faith, right knowledge, right conduct, asceticism | The Noble Eightfold Path (right understanding, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, right concentration) |
Existence of Soul |
Jains believe in the existence of an eternal Jiva (soul). |
Buddhism denies the concept of self (jiva) or soul (atman). It believes in the idea of no-self (anatta). |
Approach to Truth | Anekantavada: The truth is multifaceted | Middle Way: Avoid extremes, seek balance |
Role of Monks/Nuns | Follow strict codes of conduct, celibacy | Follow a disciplined monastic life |
Worship Practices |
Idol worship of Trithankaras |
No idol worship: followed meditation. |
Division into sects |
Buddhism is divided into two major sects: the Mahayana and the Theravada. |
Jainism is divided into two major sects: Svetambara and Digambara |
Spread of Religion | Limited mainly to India and some diaspora | Spread across Asia and beyond through missionary activities Asia and beyond through missionary activities. |
Similarities and Differences Between Buddhism and Jainism
In this article, we will learn the history of Buddhism and Jainism, by highlighting both similarities and differences between the two religions, rooted in their principles. Jainism and Buddhism are ancient religions that originated in the 6th century in Magadha (Bihar).
Both Jainism and Buddhism emerged as religious reform movements during the later Vedic period and rejected traditional Hindu ideas and the caste system. It believed in the principle of non-violence (ahimsa), karma, and the cycle of rebirth. However, they differ in their approach to these shared principles. Jainism, advocated a life of austerity and non-violence while Buddhism followed the Middle Path.
Table of Content
- Difference Between Jainism and Buddhism
- Similarities Between Jainism and Buddhism
- Introduction To Jainism
- Introduction To Buddhism
- Cause for the Emergence of Jainism and Buddhism
- FAQs on Similarities & Differences Between Buddhism and Jainism
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