[Solved] Similarities Between Buddhism and Jainism Guide

With reference to the history of ancient India, which of the following was/were common to both Buddhism and Jainism?
1. Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment.
2. Indifference to the authority of the Vedas
3. Denial of efficacy of rituals.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

[UPSC CSE Prelims 2012]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Buddhism and Jainism are 'Nastika' or heterodox schools that emerged in the 6th century BCE as part of the Shramana movement.

Authentic Source Evidence

Both religions originated in the context of questioning the Brahminical social order. While they agreed on rejecting Vedic supremacy, they differed fundamentally on the degree of asceticism required.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Statement 1 is incorrect. This is a point of difference. Buddhism advocates the 'Madhyamaka' (Middle Path), whereas Jainism advocates 'Kaya-klesha' (extreme physical penance).

Logic 2: Statement 2 and 3 are correct commonalities. Both schools were anti-Vedic and rejected the animal sacrifices and priestly rituals common in Brahmanism.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Why did both religions reject the Vedas?"

They rejected the Vedas because the scriptures sanctioned the caste system and expensive, violent ritual sacrifices that were seen as irrelevant to spiritual liberation.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"While Jainism is philosophically more 'extreme' in its asceticism, both religions share a common 'protestant' root against the ritualistic stagnation of early Vedic society."

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