Introduction
Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that has its roots in Hinduism. It is a monastic tradition that puts an emphasis on non-violence, ahimsa, and vegetarianism. In fact, Jains adhere to the Hindu principle ‘Ahimsa Parmo Dharma’ meaning ‘Non-violence is the supreme religious duty’. Jains believe that humans are unique, eternal, and embodied souls that have earned their bodies through transmigration. Jains have many beliefs in common with Hinduism, such as karma, samsara, and reincarnation.
Jainism and Hinduism Comparisons
At its core, Jainism and Hinduism differ in many ways. While Hinduism is polytheistic and incorporates many deities, Jainism is essentially atheistic and believes in only one eternal truth. Likewise, Hinduism is based on a caste system and gives special importance to rituals, scripture, and deities. In contrast, Jainism does not recognize the caste system and does not adhere to religious rituals.Another major difference between Hinduism and Jainism is that Jainism is a path of enlightenment and freedom from worldly attachments, while Hinduism is a set of rituals and beliefs that some use to gain patronage from the gods.
Practices
Jainism and Hinduism share some, but not all, religious practices. For example, both share the same view of the cycle of death and rebirth. However, the two religions have differing views on the role of a deity in the cycle of death and rebirth. Jainism does not recognize any divine authority, while Hinduism believes in a group of gods who are in control of the cycle. In addition, Jainism focuses on non-violence and ahimsa, while Hinduism promotes the idea of karma and validates the sacrifice of animals to appease the gods.
Religious Beliefs
Jainism and Hinduism have different religious beliefs when it comes to the afterlife. Hindus believe in a universal soul, with multiple different incarnations living within it. This idea of multiple souls within one being is not shared by Jains. Jains believe in individual and eternal souls, separated from the one universal soul. Though both religions believe that each soul can achieve moksha (liberation), the paths to liberation are different. For Hindus, it is a journey of self-realization and the following of religious practices, such as yoga and meditation. Jains use meditation, introspection, and the practice of ahimsa to achieve moksha.
Role Of Scriptures
Another major difference between Hinduism and Jainism is their view of scripture. Hindus believe that the Vedas, Upanishads, and other religious books are the revealed truths of God, and thus divinely inspired. Jains reject this idea, believing that truth can only be found through direct experience. They also rely heavily on the teachings of the 24 Jinas (spiritual teachers) who are credited with discovering the true path to liberation.
Relationship between Hinduism and Jainism
Due to the similarities between Jainism and Hinduism, there is a close relationship between the two religions. In India, many Hindus merge the two traditions by incorporating Jain ritual practices into their beliefs and worship. As a result, Jain temples are often found in Hindu temples, as are images of Jaina teachers. Conversely, some Jains practice many of the rituals of Hinduism, though they may see them as symbolic rather than religious in a strict sense. All in all, the two traditions have a strong influence on each other and share a great deal in common.
Hindu Influence on Jainism
It is well accepted in Jain studies that Jainism has been heavily influenced by Hinduism. It is believed that the ascetic life of the Jain monks and the concept of ahimsa was adapted from the traditions of Hinduism. The concept of yoga and meditation, which are central to Jain practice, are also believed to have Hindu roots. Moreover, other Jain beliefs, such as reincarnation and karma, have their roots in Hinduism. These Hindu influences have been deeply ingrained in Jain culture and the practices of Jainism today.
Jain Influences on Hinduism
Jainism has had an undeniable impact on the Hindu tradition, as well. Jainism was the first Indian religion to introduce the concept of ahimsa, which is deeply entrenched in the Hindu faith today. Likewise, some of the Hindu gods have been adopted directly from Jainism, such as Ganesha, the elephant-headed god. Moreover, the concept of non-attachment and the practice of Yoga, both of which are fundamental to Hinduism, were adopted from Jain teachings. These influences are particularly evident in the Bhagavad Gita, a spiritual text revered by millions of Hindus today.
Interplay Between Beliefs
The relationship between Jainism and Hinduism is complex and fluid. On one hand, both religions are intertwined on many levels and share core beliefs such as karma and reincarnation. On the other hand, the differences between them can be stark and varied, such as their views on god, the afterlife, and scripture. Ultimately, the two faiths are more intertwined than different, and the similarities far outweigh the differences. By understanding the relationship between the two traditions and appreciating the diversity of beliefs, it is possible to gain perspective and understanding of the interconnectedness of all faiths.
