Question Q.2GS1GS1
How will you explain the different fates of Buddhism and Jainism despite a slew of similarities in the two religions? (10 marks, 150 words)
Introduction
Buddhism and Jainism are two altruistic and heterodox Indian philosophical systems and religions.
13 words
Main Body
Both originated in India around 6th century BCE during the Mahayana period with emphasis on 5 cardinal values—emphasis on non-violence as a virtue.
Both do not believe in a God. God is the creator, operator and destroyer of the universe.
Similarities between:
Both emphasized on the importance of conduct and behaviour
Both Buddha & Mahariva set up monasteries and orders of monks.
Both reject the authority of vedas
Different fates of Buddhism and Jainism
1It is often said that Buddhism spread around the world especially to South East Asia but lost prominence in India while Jainism did not spread outside but remained prominent in India.
2A reason for spread of Buddhism is that it propounded 'madhyam marg' while is easy to follow for lay people while the strict code of conduct in Jainism.
3Moreover, Buddhist monks often travelled outside to spread Buddhism—Nagarjuna, Asoka sent Shankaramitra to Sri Lanka.
4Jainism was adopted primarily by the trading community as its values were congenial to it while the farming class did not adopt Jainism as it forbade killing of land. Thus it is due to the nature of the religion & that it remained in India.
200 words7 paragraphs
Diagram
Flow diagram showing similarities between Buddhism and Jainism with multiple branches showing common characteristics
- Clearly identifies similarities
- Uses diagram to organize information
- Identifies key figures (Buddha, Mahavira)
Topper
Ritika Rath
AIR 48
Subject & Paper
GS1GS1
Topic
Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times
Pre Vedic
Buddhism and Jainism
Writing Stats
213
Total words
7
Paragraphs
explanatory
Tone