Buddhism and Jainism are two of the earliest religious systems to have originated in ancient India and they still exist in India today with a very large following. Though both these spiritual traditions share many similarities, they do have some key differences. This article will explain the differences between Buddhism and Jainism to help bring clarity and understanding to the two religions.
Origins
Buddhism was founded by Siddhartha Gautama around 500 BCE in India. Gautama was born a prince who renounced his title and worldly possessions in search of the key to end all suffering. Guided by meditation and the teachings of early sages, he developed the core of the Buddhist philosophy. Jainism originated about 1500 years earlier around 1000 BCE also in India. The tradition believes its teachings flowed from the mouth of the first enlightened being, Rishabhanatha, a being beyond time, who revealed to his followers the philosophy and practice of a Jain lifestyle.
Both religions ran concurrent to Hinduism, the dominant religion of the region at that time. They shared many aspects of beliefs and symbols, though Buddhism focussed more on individual striving and centred around the teachings of the Buddha himself, while Jainism focussed on peace and non-violence, following the teachings of Mahavira.
Nature of Existence
Buddhism and Jainism differ in their views of the universe. The Buddhist philosophy is based on the notion that all life is transient with all beings constantly being reborn because of the cycle of karma. The Jain philosophy states that all living creatures are reborn in different forms until they have achieved a state in which they can break free from the cycle of rebirth and respect for all forms of life is paramount.
Buddhism therefore has a more personal focus on game and karma. It advocates for individuals to strive for enlightenment and recognises that the full universe is beyond any one person. Jainism on the other hand, presents a more holistic approach to the universe. It outlines that all living creatures and elements in the universe have a cosmic kinship and should be respected and protected.
Treatment of Animals
A key difference between Buddhists and Jains is the way they perceive animal life. Buddhist teachings are based upon ending suffering, and animals are part of the universal cycle of suffering that must be avoided in order to seek enlightenment. Jains on the other hand, are required by their religion to be vegetarians. Jain scriptures clearly state that in order to attain enlightenment, it is necessary to not only abstain from harming people, but also abstain from killing or hurting animals in any way.
Jains are also more likely to be active in promoting the ethics of non-violence towards animals and the protection of the environment. Buddhists, on the other hand, do not have any strict dietary laws, but rather urge individuals to minimise their consumption of animal products in order to minimise suffering.
Concept of Gods
Buddhism and Jainism also differ in their view of Gods, as well as their view of the afterlife. Buddhism does not have a single God, but rather sees the universe as an interconnected, ever-evolving energy comprised of elements and forces. Jainism has many gods and other celestial entities, and each deity is represented by a symbol and associated with one of the five main ethical principles of Jainism, known as ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (chastity) and aparigraha (non-attachment). Jains believe in reincarnation, returning to life after death until they attain moksha, or liberation from the cycle.
Buddhists also believe in reincarnation, and also strive for liberation but their view of the afterlife is different, believing that karma determines the type of reincarnation that occurs, and enlightenment is ultimately the only way to end the cycle.
Practices and Beliefs
Jainism and Buddhism have different practices and beliefs, both in the religious sphere and with regards to how individuals should act in everyday life. Buddhist practices revolve around the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, while Jains focus on the Five Noble Truths and the Non-Absolute path. Jains also practice ahimsa or non-violence and strive for spiritual enlightenment, but their emphasis is more on self-purification and the development of virtues. Buddhists, on the other hand, practice meditation and mindfulness as pathways to enlightenment, and believe in the concept of nirvana, or freedom from the cycle of suffering.
Additionally, Buddhism sees suffering as an intrinsic part of life and seeks to eliminate it, while Jainism seeks to minimise it, believing that non-violence and respect for all forms of life is paramount. A further key difference is that Buddhist teachings focus more on following the religion, while Jain teachings are more focussed on following the principles of the religion.
Conclusion
Though Buddhism and Jainism have many similarities, they each also retain their own distinct features and philosophies. Buddhism is based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama and focuses on the individual striving for enlightenment, while Jainism is based upon the teachings of Mahavira and emphasises peace and non-violence towards all forms of life. During its long history both traditions have survived and continue to thrive in India today.
Though the two religions share many core beliefs, there are a few key differences which have been outlined in this article. Such a comparison of Buddhism and Jainism can be a great starting point for further research into the history, philosophy and practice of each spiritual tradition.
Summary
Buddhism and Jainism are two of the most influential religious traditions to have originated in India. Though both traditions have a rich history and many similarities, this article has outlined some of the key differences between the two religions to help bring clarity and understanding. The main differences discussed include their view of the nature of existence, their approach to animal life, their concept of gods and afterlife, and their differing practices and beliefs. By comparing the two religions one can gain a better understanding of the history and practice of each.
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