Comparisons of Jainism, Buddhism and Hinduism

As the Greeks began to invade the Indian subcontinent, their culture slowly assimilated with that of the Indians. The overthrown dynasties were often associated with a homeland religion. For example, Chandragupta Maurya became a Jain, Ashoka (his grandson) became a Buddhist and Several Gupta emperors obsessed over Hinduism. The religions had many different appeals that attracted various social classes, branches that could support ordinary people (that couldn't fulfill the duties of a more-sophisticated branch) and doctrines that either satisfied or disheartened the followers.

The religion of Siddhartha Gautama (or The Buddha) was very widespread. From the start, the enthusiastic preachers imparted Buddhist doctrines through common languages. Buddhism attracted many followers that believed in Enlightenment and the escape of incarnation. What is more is the abomination of social classes (because, quite honestly, that would only add to the suffering already instilled in life at birth). An early Vedic religion, Hinduism, was supported greatly by Gupta emperors. In fact, their dedication was so great they incorporated the teaching of Hinduism into the educational system, making it accessible to students everywhere (and ultimately causing Buddhism's popularity to shrivel). Jainism was a religion that called the attention of low caste members, who were treated poorly or performed very tedious tasks. The religion's main doctrine promoted a level of nonviolence to the next extreme. Insects (as well as animals, plants and humans) were considered almost sacred.

Soon the religions became very difficult to follow (the precepts of Buddhism were for monks) and branches began to develop. Mahayana Buddhism was meant for Buddhists that could not follow the precepts of no dancing or no eating out of scheduled time. The "Greater Vehicle" supported Buddhists that believed in the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. These followers only had to concentrate on those ideas to reach enlightenment and the end of suffering. As the Upanishads developed a spiritual Hinduism, the Bhagvad Gita established a more devotional religion. In it, faith (completion of caste duties, believing in the wisdom of the gods) led to salvation. In other words, to escape the cycle of samsara and reach moksha, you had to detach yourself of your responsibilities to unite with the Brahman. Jainism had two branches from the start, an all-naked branch and