Origin Of Jainism
Jainism is a philosophical, religious tradition, prevalent in certain parts of India, that is said to have its roots in Hinduism. According to Jain texts and scholars, Jainism had started at least as early as 900 BCE, around the same time as the founding of the Vedic religion, however the earliest written records of Jainism were only discovered in the 6th century BCE. Jainism is a separate religion that has similarities to Hinduism and evolved out of it with some modifications. Those modifications are the concept of reincarnation, different notions of the individual’s place in the larger universe and its relationship to a Creator, and perhaps most importantly the concept of ahimsa (non-violence).
The entire concept of Jainism is based on the Jain tradition of non-injury to living beings and reverence for the pure soul. Jains believe that all living creatures, including animals, plants, and microorganisms, have souls and, thus, deserve respect and non-injury.
Differences Between Jainism and Hinduism
One of the main differences between Jainism and Hinduism is in their beliefs about god and the universe. Jains believe that the universe and its occupants exist without the intervention of an external entity, and reject the concept of a monotheistic god existing in both religious traditions. In Jainism, the universe is the sum total of all its living beings, and all living beings are the sum total of its universe. Jains also reject the belief held by Hindus that the soul of an individual can be reborn into a new form. Further, Jains reject the Hindu belief in karma, a law of retribution and causality based on good and bad deeds.
Additionally, Jains reject Hindu doctrines such as the caste system and disparaging of certain lower social classes. This differs from Hinduism in that Jains believe that all living beings are of equal worth, and no one should be discriminated against or excluded based on social class. This idea is central to their core beliefs and is expressed throughout their literature and teachings.
Differences in Worship Practices
The worship practices of Jainism and Hinduism also differ in significant ways. Hindus practice a form of temple worship known as puja, which involves meditation, offering prayers, and rituals. In addition, Hindu pilgrims often take part in Hindu festivals and make regular offerings to their deities. In contrast, Jains practice a more individualized form of worship known as Darshan, which involves meditating in silence and making a pilgrimage to holy sites. Pilgrims may also attend special festivals, but the emphasis is more on personal meditation and contemplation rather than on making offerings or taking part in elaborate ceremonies.
Furthermore, Jainism has no official clergy or religious hierarchy, and practitioners are commonly guided by their own interpretations and beliefs. This differs from Hinduism, which has a formalized priesthood and hierarchy of religious professionals and teachers. In addition, unlike Hinduism, Jainism has no sacraments such as marriage or funerals.
Similarities Between Jainism and Hinduism
Despite their differences, Jainism and Hinduism share many of the same beliefs and practices. Both religious traditions hold that the soul can be liberated from suffering by living a life of austerity and detachment from the material world. The primary means to achieve this goal is ahimsa, or nonviolence. In both religions, dedication to dharma, or religious practice, is also essential to living a virtuous life.
Furthermore, both Hindus and Jains believe in the existence of karma and its power to determine the outcome of our actions in this and future lives. Similarly, Jainism and Hinduism both follow the idea of reincarnation and the concept of a cycle of births and deaths in this material world. Finally, both religions embrace a variety of meditation practices directed towards the attainment of spiritual knowledge and a deeper understanding of the nature of reality.
Influence on Other Religions
Jainism and Hinduism have historically shared social, cultural, and religious influences. Though each religion has retained its own unique beliefs and practices, many of their respective theories and practices have been adopted by other religions or appropriated by thinkers, writers, and scholars abroad. For example, the Hindu concept of the soul’s cycle of births and deaths has been adopted by some Buddhist and Taoist traditions. Similarly, some believers of Buddhism in East Asia have adopted ahimsa, or the practice of non-harming, and other Jain principles.
Moreover, Hinduism and Jainism have both been considered by many as the source of numerous metaphysical theories, such as karma and reincarnation, which have heavily influenced spiritual systems around the world. As both religious traditions continue to spread and influence the world, it is likely that the influence of Hinduism and Jainism on other religions and cultures will increasingly grow.
Influence on Modern Society
The influence of Hinduism and Jainism can be seen in many aspects of modern life, including art, music, literature, and even technology. For instance, many Hindu and Jain beliefs and practices have been adopted by some modern technologists and computer scientists, including the notion that computer programs can be “born” or “reborn,” and that they may have “souls” and can evolve and develop in similar ways to humans. Additionally, beliefs such as ahimsa have led to increased awareness of animal rights, as well as the exploration of new technologies for sustainable, non-harmful farming and food production.
Moreover, many spiritual teachers have been strongly influenced by the teachings of both Hinduism and Jainism and have applied them to create their own modern spiritual traditions that attempt to bridge Hinduism, Jainism, and other religious or spiritual perspectives. Finally, Hindu and Jain beliefs and practices continue to be adopted and adapted by countless people around the world, as both religious traditions continue to exert an influence on the world at large.
Conclusion Of Jainism
Jainism and Hinduism are two closely related and ancient religious traditions. While they have significant differences, they also share many common beliefs and practices. Additionally, both traditions have had a profound influence on other religions, cultures, and modern society. As both religions continue to expand and influence the world, their influence and impact on our culture, beliefs, and practices will only become more pronounced.
