Jainism and Buddhism
The sixth century B.C. is considered a wonderful century in history.
Great thinkers like Buddha, Mahavira, Heraclitus, Zoroaster, Confucius and Lao
Tse lived and preached their ideas in this century. In India, the republican
institutions were strong in the 6th century B.C. This enabled rise
of heterodox sects against the orthodox religion dominated by rites and
rituals. Among them the most successful were Jainism and Buddhism whose impact
on the Indian society was remarkable.
Causes for the Rise of Jainism and Buddhism
The
primary cause for the rise of Jainism and Buddhism was the religious unrest in
India in the 6th century B.C. The complex rituals and sacrifices
advocated in the Later Vedic period were not acceptable to the common people.
The sacrificial ceremonies were also found to be too expensive. The
superstitious beliefs and mantras confused the people. The teachings of
Upanishads, an alternative to the system of sacrifices, were highly
philosophical in nature and therefore not easily understood by all. Therefore,
what was needed in the larger interests of the people was a simple, short and
intelligible way to salvation for all people. Such religious teaching should
also be in a language known to them. This need was fulfilled by the teachings
of Buddha and Mahavira.
Other than the religious factor, social and economic factors also
contributed to the rise of these two religions. The rigid caste system
prevalent in India generated tensions in the society. Higher classes enjoyed
certain privileges which were denied to the lower classes. Also, the Kshatriyas
had resented the domination of the priestly class. It should also to be noted
that both Buddha and Mahavira belonged to Kshatriya origin. The growth of trade
led to the improvement in the economic conditions of the Vaisyas. As a result,
they wanted to enhance their social status but the orthodox Varna system did
not allow this. Therefore, they began to extend support to Buddhism and
Jainism. It was this merchant class that extended the chief support to these
new religions.
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