Question

State two important causes for the rise of Jainism and Buddhism.

With reference to Jainism and Buddhism answer the following question:

What were the causes for the rise of Jainism and Buddhism?

Answer 1

In the Later Vedic Period, the rigid caste system, monopoly of the priests for expensive rituals, the difficulty of the common people to understand Sanskrit language etc. confused the society very much. So people wanted an easy going performance in the religion and practice, hence they were naturally attracted to Jainism and Buddhism. Both Jainism and Buddhism were founded by Two Kshatriya-princes i.e. Mahavira and Gautam Buddha. These two religions followed non-violence, which was also preferred by the farmers due to the safety of their animals against sacrificing them for rituals.

Answer 2

The following factors favored the rise and growth of Jainism and Buddhism:

1. Reaction against Ritualism: Religious ceremonies by then had become very expensive beyond the means of ordinary people. Some priests hardly realized the sufferings of the common man. This was one of the important causes that gave rise to faiths that were simple and inexpensive.
2. Corruption in Religion: Corruption crept into religious practices. In order to extract money, the priests encouraged ordinary people to perform Yajnas and conduct household rites beyond their means. Kshatriya rulers protested against the dominance of such practices. The common man could not reconcile to this attitude of the priests.
3. Rigid Caste System: The division of society into Brahmans, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras had become rigid. It did not allow any social mobility. A person of one caste could not become a member of the other caste. There were restrictions on the basis of caste on food, drinks and marriage. Interchange of caste was impossible.
4. Difficult Language: Sanskrit was considered a sacred language. Most of the Vedic literature was composed in Sanskrit. The priestly class gave discourses and chanted mantras in this language, which the common people found difficult to understand. Therefore, many people began to look for an alternative religion that they could understand better.
5. Political situation: In the sixth century BC, Magadha was ruled by Bimbisara and later by Ajatashatru. Both these rulers were liberal and tolerant. They too were free from Brahmanic influence and condemned certain social evils in their kingdoms. When the opportunity came, they patronized both Jainism and Buddhism.
6. Agricultural Economy: Killing of animals to perform sacrifices was against the interests of farmers in the Gangetic valley. The use of iron had made the animal-drawn ploughing popular. Such farmers needed a religion that would give protection to animals. Both Jainism and Buddhism preached non-violence and were against animal sacrifices.