Indian History: Buddhism & Jainism

The 6th Century BCE witnessed the rise of heterodox sects in India, primarily as a reaction against the complex rituals and varna rigidities of the later Vedic period.

Buddhism: Gautama Buddha

• Four Noble Truths: Life is suffering (Dukkha), the cause is desire (Samudaya), it can end (Nirodha) through the Eightfold Path.
• Key Events: Enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, First Sermon at Sarnath, and Mahaparinirvana at Kushinagar.
• Tri-ratnas: Buddha, Dhamma (teachings), and Sangha (order of monks).
• Sects: Later divided into Hinayana, Mahayana, and Vajrayana.

Jainism: Vardhamana Mahavira

• Tirthankaras: Mahavira was the 24th Tirthankara; Rishabhanatha was the first.
• Principles: Stresses Ahimsa (non-violence) extremely; Five vows include Satya, Asteya, Aparigraha, and Brahmacharya.
• Triratna: Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct.
• Council: The first Jain Council was held at Pataliputra under Sthulabhadra.

Question for you: Under the patronage of which king was the Fourth Buddhist Council held in Kashmir?

Let us know your answer on our social media! 👇

Telegram Facebook