Question

define jainism and define buddhism

Answer 1

Jainism: Vardhamana Mahavira founded the Jain Dharma. He was a kshatriya prince of the Lichchhavis. At the age of thirty, he left home and went to live in a forest. For twelve years he led a hard and lonely life, at the end of which he attained enlightenment.

Teachings:

1. His doctrine was simple that suggested that men and women who wished to know the truth must leave their homes.
2. They must follow the rules of ahimsa very strictly.
3. He strictly preached that one should never hurt or kill other living beings.
4. Jainism has very difficult rules about living life. E.g. they have to beg for feeding themselves.

Buddhism: Buddhism has been founded by prince Siddhartha who was a kshatriya some 2500 years ago. He too left the comforts of his home in search of knowledge and attained enlightenment. He was known as the Buddha or the Wise One.

Teachings:

1. The Buddha taught that life is full of suffering and unhappiness due to our cravings and desires.
2. But this constant craving could be controlled by following moderation in everything.
3. He also taught people to be kind, and to respect the lives of others, including animals.
4. He believed that our karma affect us both in this life and the next.
5. He gave eight ways for an ideal life in his Ashtangik marg.