COMPLETE Buddhism & Jainism | Explained Through Animation | OnlyIAS

During the 6th century BCE, Indian civilization underwent significant transformations that had lasting impacts on culture, religion, and society. This period witnessed the emergence of Buddhism and Jainism, which were results of the Shramana movement, a religious rejig that challenged the dominant Vedic religion's ritualistic practices. The excessive emphasis on rituals and the social prestige of the Brahmins led to widespread dissatisfaction, prompting the birth of a new religious movement. The Shramana movement rejected the Brahmins' rising importance and emphasized asceticism. Additionally, factors like non-violence and non-killing of animals supported by Buddhism and Jainism helped these religions spread, often patronized by the economically advancing Vaishya community.

Buddhism, which emerged around 2700 years ago in India, is a religion based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama. Born in 563 BCE in Lumbini, Nepal, Siddhartha left his princely life in search of truth and enlightenment, eventually attaining Nirvana. His teachings included the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, advocating a Middle Path between extreme asceticism and worldly indulgence. Full enlightenment or Nirvana involves a liberation from desires and negative sentiments, achievable in one's lifetime. The Buddhist doctrines emphasized the importance of ethical living and mindfulness, with no reliance on the concept of God.

Jainism, another ancient Indian religion founded by Lord Mahavira in the 6th century BCE, emphasizes liberation through non-violence and spiritual purity. Despite being considered a complex offshoot of the Shramana movement, Jainism focuses on achieving Kevala Jnana (omniscience) through self-discipline and the Three Jewels: Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct. It mandates adherence to the Five Vows, including non-violence, truth, and non-attachment. Mahavira critically rejected the Vedic rituals and belief in a creator God, asserting the universe's laws govern existence.