REL 212
Comparison of Two Religions
Karen Fulton
November 4, 2013
Prof. William Denning
REL 212

REL 212
Comparison of Two Religions
Karen Fulton
November 4, 2013
Prof. William Denning
REL 212

Jainism and Buddhism

Jainism is one of the oldest of the oldest religions known today. Its origins lie in the county of India. The origin can be traced back to the Indus River Valley civilization of 3000 B.C. Jains believe that there were twenty-four great teachers called Tirthankaras-people who attained all knowledge and preached it to the people. Approximately 2600 years ago Lord Mahavir or Vardhaman (599 to 527 BC), the last of the Tirthankar expounded the Jain philosophy. In essence Jainism addresses the true nature of reality. Jains believe in reincarnation, their souls, which are believed to be a unique substance in the universe, take different living forms in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Jains believe in the philosophy of karma, reincarnation of worldly soul, hell and heaven as a punishment or reward for one’s deeds, and liberation of the self-form life’s misery of birth and death in a way similar to the Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. Jains belief has Hinduism historical roots, but many differences between the two Indian religions. Another belief is the universe and everything in it is eternal and nothing that exist now was ever created nor will it be destroyed , and there are three realms , the heavens, the earth, and hell. They also say humans can attain “prefect beingness” of divinity Jains religion during it existence of over 5000 years has never compromised on the concept of nonviolence. Jains religion presents an enlightened perspective of equality of souls, from humans to animals and living organisms. The principles of Jainism if properly understood in their right perspective and faithfully adhered to, have great relevance for modern