Buddhism and Jainism: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Art and Culture)

Explanation

Buddhism and Jainism, both originating in ancient India around the 6th century BCE, share several common principles. Both religions advocate personal spiritual development through ethical conduct and meditation, offering alternative paths to liberation and enlightenment. Statement (1) is incorrect: Only Buddhism avoids extremes, not Jainism. Buddhism follows the Middle Path (Madhyamaka), avoiding both extreme penance and indulgence. Jainism, especially in Digambara tradition, follows extreme asceticism, advocating severe penance as a path to liberation. Statements (2), (3) and (4) are correct:

Both Buddhism and Jainism rejected the Vedas as the ultimate authority. They criticized the Brahmanical rituals, caste system, and the monopoly of Vedic priests. Both religions focused on direct realization, self-discipline, and ethical conduct over Vedic rituals. Buddha and Mahavira both opposed elaborate rituals and sacrifices performed by Brahmins. Buddhism emphasized meditation, moral conduct, and wisdom over rituals. Ahimsa (non-violence) is a fundamental principle in both Buddhism and Jainism. Jainism follows an extreme form of Ahimsa avoiding even harming microorganisms (e.g., Jain monks wear masks to avoid inhaling insects). Buddhism also preaches Ahimsa, but in a less extreme form compared to Jainism.

Explanation

Therigatha often translated as Verses of the Elder Nuns is a Buddhist text. It is part of the Sutta Pitaka, containing verses attributed to early Buddhist nuns. It documents the spiritual experiences and enlightenment of female disciples of the Buddha.

Option (b), (c) and (d) are incorrect:

Acarangasutra is one of the oldest Jain scriptures belonging to the Shvetambara Jain canon. It discusses the ethical conduct, discipline, and lifestyle of Jain monks, especially emphasizing Ahimsa (non-violence). It is attributed to the direct disciples of Mahavira. Sutrakritanga is a Jain scripture from the Shvetambara canon. It contains theological discussions and criticizes rival religious philosophies, including Vedic traditions and Ajivikas. Brihatkalpasutra is a later Jain text which is part of the Shvetambara tradition. It deals with monastic discipline, rules for Jain monks and spiritual practices.