Ancient India witnessed the rise of several philosophical and religious movements, but two of the most influential among them were Jainism and Buddhism. Both originated in the 6th century BCE during a period of social, economic, and religious transformation. Their teachings aimed to reform the rigid practices of Vedic society and offered new paths of spirituality. For NDA & CDS aspirants, Jainism and Buddhism remain crucial topics due to their importance in cultural history, ethics, and socio-religious development of India.
NDA & CDS 1 2026 Exam History- Ancient History – Class 2
Background: The Age of Reformers (6th Century BCE)
The 6th century BCE is known as the Age of Religious Upheaval. Factors responsible for the rise of new religions included:
- Growth of new cities and trade routes
- Conflict between Vedic rituals and emerging social classes
- High cost of sacrifices and dominance of Brahmins
- Quest for a simpler spiritual path
In this environment, Mahavira (Jainism) and Gautama Buddha (Buddhism) emerged as major reformers.
JAINISM
Founder & Timeline
- Traditionally linked to 24 Tirthankaras.
- Rishabhanatha: 1st Tirthankara
- Mahavira (540–468 BCE): 24th and last Tirthankara, considered the real founder.
Early Life of Mahavira
- Born at Kundagrama (Vaishali) in a Kshatriya family of the Nayas.
- Father: Siddhartha
- Mother: Trishala
- Married to Yashoda
- Renounced worldly life at age 30 and attained Kevala Jnana at Jrimbhikagrama.
- Died at Pavapuri (Bihar).
Core Teachings of Jainism
Jainism emphasizes strict discipline and non-violence.
Five Great Vows (Mahavratas)
- Ahimsa – Non-violence
- Satya – Truth
- Asteya – Non-stealing
- Brahmacharya – Celibacy
- Aparigraha – Non-possession
Three Jewels (Ratnatraya)
- Right Faith
- Right Knowledge
- Right Conduct
Karma Theory & Moksha
- The soul is bound by karma.
- Liberation is achieved by destroying all karmic particles.
Jain Councils
- First Council – Pataliputra, 3rd century BCE
- Second Council – Vallabhi, 5th–6th century CE
- Final compilation of Jain canon (12 Angas).
Sects of Jainism
- Digambaras
- Believe monks should be nude
- Women cannot achieve salvation
- Svetambaras
- White-clad monks
- Women can attain liberation
BUDDHISM
Founder & Timeline
- Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (563–483 BCE).
- Born at Lumbini (now in Nepal).
- Belonged to the Shakya clan of Kshatriyas.
Four Great Sights
Gautama’s spiritual journey began after seeing:
- An old man
- A sick man
- A corpse
- A monk (ascetic)
These inspired him to seek the truth of suffering.
Enlightenment & Teachings
- Attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya under a Pipal tree (Bodhi tree).
- First sermon at Sarnath (Deer Park) – “Dharmachakra Pravartana”.
- Passed away at Kushinagar – known as Mahaparinirvana.
Core Principles of Buddhism
Four Noble Truths
- World is full of suffering (Dukkha).
- Desire is the cause of suffering.
- Ending desire ends suffering.
- The Eightfold Path leads to the end of suffering.
Eightfold Path (Ashtangika Marg)
- Right View
- Right Resolve
- Right Speech
- Right Action
- Right Livelihood
- Right Effort
- Right Mindfulness
- Right Concentration
Middle Path
Avoiding both luxury and extreme asceticism.
Buddhist Councils
- First Council – Rajgir, 483 BCE
- Second Council – Vaishali, 383 BCE
- Third Council – Pataliputra, Ashoka’s reign
- Fourth Council – Kashmir, Kanishka’s reign
Sects of Buddhism
- Hinayana (Theravada)
- Emphasis on personal liberation
- Spread to Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand
- Mahayana
- Emphasis on Bodhisattvas
- Spread to China, Japan, Korea
Comparison: Jainism vs Buddhism
| Feature | Jainism | Buddhism |
|---|---|---|
| Founder | Mahavira | Gautama Buddha |
| Core Principle | Non-violence & austerity | Middle Path |
| Attitude toward rituals | Strictly opposed | Opposed Brahmanical rituals |
| View on God | No belief in God | Agnostic |
| Spread | Limited | Widely spread across Asia |
Why These Topics Are Important for NDA & CDS Exams?
- Frequently asked in UPSC, NDA, CDS, CAPF exams
- Questions related to:
- Founders, councils, doctrines
- Places of importance
- Differences between Jainism & Buddhism
- Sects and scriptures
- Helps understand India’s cultural and philosophical heritage.
Conclusion
Jainism and Buddhism played major roles in shaping ancient Indian society. Their emphasis on ethics, equality, and moral conduct brought significant reform, reducing the dominance of ritualistic traditions. Understanding these religions helps aspirants gain deeper insight into India’s cultural evolution, making this topic essential for NDA & CDS 1 2026 preparation.
