Jainism and Buddhism are two ancient Indian religions that emerged around the same time (6th–5th century BCE), sharing some philosophical roots but differing significantly in beliefs, practices, and goals. Here's a comparison:
1. Founders
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Jainism: Founded by Mahavira (599–527 BCE), the 24th Tirthankara.
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Buddhism: Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (563–483 BCE), known as the Buddha.
2. Core Philosophy
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Jainism: Believes in soul (jiva) and karma. Liberation (moksha) is attained through strict self-discipline and non-violence.
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Buddhism: Denies permanent soul (anatta). Emphasizes the Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path to attain nirvana (liberation from suffering).
3. View on Soul
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Jainism: Soul is eternal and individual. Every living being has a soul.
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Buddhism: Denies the existence of a permanent self (anatta); what we consider "self" is a collection of changing processes.
4. Concept of God
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Jainism: No creator god; liberated souls (siddhas) are revered.
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Buddhism: No creator god; focus is on individual enlightenment.
5. Ahimsa (Non-violence)
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Jainism: Central and extremely strict. Even microorganisms must be protected.
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Buddhism: Important, but more moderate. Killing is wrong, but the emphasis is on intention.
6. Practices
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Jainism: Severe asceticism, fasting, non-possession, renunciation.
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Buddhism: Middle Path—avoids extreme asceticism and indulgence. Meditation and mindfulness are key.
7. Scriptures
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Jainism: Agamas (teachings of Mahavira).
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Buddhism: Tripitaka (Three Baskets) and other sutras depending on the school.
8. Sects
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Jainism: Two major sects – Digambara and Svetambara.
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Buddhism: Three major schools – Theravāda, Mahāyāna, and Vajrayāna.
9. Liberation
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Jainism: Moksha is achieved through complete detachment from karma.
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Buddhism: Nirvana is achieved through wisdom, ethical living, and mental discipline.
10. Influence
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Jainism: Mostly confined to India, with a small but dedicated following.
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Buddhism: Spread widely across Asia and globally, with diverse cultural adaptations.
If you want, I can make a side-by-side table or dive deeper into any specific aspect.
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