Differences between Buddhism and Jainism
Contents
Differences between Buddhism and Jainism[edit]
Buddhism and Jainism are two ancient religions that originated in the Indian subcontinent.[1] While they share some common features, terminology, and ethical principles, they differ in core doctrines.[1] Both are ascetic traditions that reject the concept of a creator god and believe in the possibility of liberation from the cycle of rebirth (samsara) through spiritual discipline.[1]
Historical figures associated with the establishment of their current forms, Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) and Mahavira, were contemporaries.[1] Jainism's history is traced through 24 Tirthankaras, with Mahavira being the last.[2] Buddhists believe Gautama Buddha rediscovered the dharma, and Buddhist texts also mention previous Buddhas.[1]
Comparison Table[edit]
| Category | Buddhism | Jainism |
|---|---|---|
| Core Philosophy | Follows the "Middle Way," avoiding extremes of self-indulgence and severe asceticism.[1] | Emphasizes rigorous asceticism and self-control to achieve spiritual liberation.[2] |
| Concept of Self/Soul | Teaches the doctrine of "Anatta" (no-self), denying the existence of a permanent, eternal soul.[1] | Believes in the existence of an eternal, individual soul ("Jiva") in all living beings.[1] |
| Ultimate Goal | To achieve Nirvana, the extinguishing of the "fires" of greed, hatred, and ignorance, and release from the cycle of rebirth.[3] | To attain Moksha, the complete liberation of the soul from karmic bondage, after which it resides in a state of bliss.[2][3] |
| View on Karma | Karma is understood as the law of cause and effect, driven by intention.[4] | Karma is viewed as a physical substance that attaches to the soul through actions, thoughts, and words, regardless of intent.[2][4] |
| Ethical Precepts | The Five Precepts guide lay followers: refrain from killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and intoxicants.[5] | The Five Vows are central: Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (chastity), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness).[5] |
| Practice of Non-Violence (Ahimsa) | A core principle, but its application can vary. Vegetarianism is encouraged but not always mandatory for lay followers.[1][4] | A foundational and strictly interpreted doctrine that extends to all forms of life, including microscopic organisms, making strict vegetarianism obligatory.[1][2] |
Concept of the Soul[edit]
A primary distinction between the two religions is their view on the soul. Jainism posits the existence of an eternal and individual soul, the *jiva*, which is present in all living beings.[1] In contrast, Buddhism puts forth the doctrine of *anatta*, or "no-self," which denies the existence of a permanent, unchanging soul.[1][2]
Path to Liberation[edit]
The path to spiritual liberation also differs. Buddhism advocates for the Middle Way, a path of moderation between extreme indulgence and severe self-mortification. The Buddha himself practiced extreme asceticism before abandoning it for this moderate path.[1] Jainism, however, considers intense asceticism and self-control as essential for purifying the soul of karmic particles and achieving liberation.[2]
Non-Violence[edit]
While both traditions place a strong emphasis on non-violence (Ahimsa), Jainism's application of this principle is notably more rigorous. The Jain concept of Ahimsa extends to all living beings, including insects and microorganisms, leading to strict dietary rules and other practices to avoid harming any form of life.[1][2] In Buddhism, while non-violence is a key tenet, the prohibition on harming life is generally less extensive for the laity compared to Jain monastics.[1]
References[edit]
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved December 17, 2025.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 "study.com". Retrieved December 17, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 "prathaculturalschool.com". Retrieved December 17, 2025.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 "reddit.com". Retrieved December 17, 2025.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 "dhammawiki.com". Retrieved December 17, 2025.
