Mahajanapada Period:
Que. Buddhism and Jainism were social movements under the umbrella of religion. Comment. [UPSC CSE-2017]
Approach:
(1) Explain the rise of new religions.
(2) Explain how Buddhism is a social movement under the umbrella of religion.
(3) Explain how Jainism is a social movement under the umbrella of religion.
(4) Conclude on balanced footing.
Introduction:
In India, the sixth century B.C. was a time of religious strife. The popularity of the Brahmanical system, which was built on intricate sacrifices and elaborate rites, caused resentment among the common people.
Many sects formed, each espousing a different view of God and the path to Moksha. Buddhism and Jainism, which developed in India circa 800-600 BC, were prominent among them.
They questioned the Vedic ultimacy and the ritual significance of caste, and instead preached teachings of salvation based on personal conversion, frequently without regard for caste, class, or gender. Their teachings found fertile ground among the city’s upwardly mobile commercial groups.
Buddhism Being Social Movement under the Umbrella of Religion:
(1) Buddha taught his followers the Four “Noble Truths”: The World is full of sorrows (dukkha), The cause of sorrow is desire (trishna), If desires are conquered, all sorrows can be removed and The only way this can be done is by following the “Middle-Path” (ashtangika marga or Noble Eightfold Path).
It comprised: (i) Right view, (ii) Right intention, (iii) Right speech, (iv) Right action, (v) Right livelihood, (vi) Right effort, (vii) Right mindfulness, (viii) Right meditation.
(2) Social Reform: The Buddha’s teachings emphasized ethical conduct, compassion, and non-violence. Buddhism challenged social norms and hierarchical structures by advocating for the moral treatment of all beings, regardless of their caste or social status. This inclusive and egalitarian aspect of Buddhism made it a social force for change.
(3) Social Justice: Basically, before the rise of Buddhism, society was based on the Varna system. Certainly, Buddhism opposed the superiority of this group on the ground of birth. For example, a social class called Upali, who were barbers by caste, occupied an essential position in the sangha.
(4) Role in Education: Buddhist education aimed at transforming personality into the highest form of humanity through ethical, intellectual and spiritual perfection. And, these three faculties of the perfection of human life undoubtedly will lead a man to eternal happiness, which is the highest achievement we all are equally looking for. Therefore, Buddhist education is grounded on the primary psychological need of all living beings. As well, education focused on the propagation of religion and inculcation of religious feelings. Also, it served as a means to achieve liberation from the shackles of illiteracy.
(5) Anti-Violence Stance: Buddhism’s commitment to non-violence had significant social implications. It discouraged harm to all living beings and discouraged warfare, contributing to the promotion of peace and harmony.
(6) Empowerment of Laypeople: Unlike some contemporary religious systems, Buddhism encouraged the active participation of laypeople. The Buddha’s teachings were accessible to individuals from all walks of life, emphasizing that anyone could pursue enlightenment. This inclusion of lay followers helped challenge traditional religious hierarchies.
Jainism Being Social Movement under the Umbrella of Religion:
(1) Emphasis on Non-Violence (Ahimsa): Jainism’s core principle of non-violence extends not only to human beings but also to all living beings. This emphasis on compassion and non-harm fosters a sense of interconnectedness and respect for life, influencing followers to live harmoniously with nature and advocate for the rights of all creatures.
(2) Rejection of Materialism: Jainism advocates for detachment from material possessions and worldly desires. This philosophy challenges consumerism and materialism, encouraging a simpler and more sustainable way of life.
(3) Emphasis on Education and Knowledge: Jainism promotes knowledge acquisition and continuous learning. Jain monastic institutions historically played a role in education and intellectual pursuits, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge in society.
(4) Rejection of vedas: Mahavira rejected the authority of the Vedas, the Vedic rituals and the Brahmin supremacy. He advocated an austere and simple life with the ultimate aim to attain Kaivalya (nirvana or moksha).
(5) Growth of Language and Literature: Jainism influenced Indian language and literature. Vardhaman Mahavir preached in ‘Ardha-Magadhi’language, the language of the common man. The people knowing ‘Magadhi’ and ‘Soruaseni’ could easily follow the preaching of Mahavir. In due course of time the Jaina Canonical texts were written in Prakrit language. Thus, the vernacular and regional languages were enriched by Jainism. Further, the Jaina texts like ‘Anga’, ‘Upanga’, ‘Kalpasutra’, ‘Archarangasutra’, ‘Uttaradhyayana Sutra’ etc. were also written in Sanskrit. Thus, the literature also grew due to the rise of Jainism.
(6) Against the Caste System: Jainism went a long way in creating a healthy society. Mahavir preached against the caste system. With the end of the caste system in society the grip of the higher caste over the lower caste ended. The lower-class people were not to be exploited by the higher caste people. The bitterness between the two antagonistic sections of the society melted away. This gave rise to a healthy society which influenced the course of Indian history.
Conclusion:
Buddhism and Jainism were not only religious traditions but also social movements that aimed to reform and transform society. Their teachings challenged established norms, promoted ethical behavior, and emphasized the need for compassion, non-violence, and individual responsibility. By advocating for inclusivity, social justice, and personal development, Buddhism and Jainism demonstrated their role as transformative forces within their respective historical and cultural contexts.
