A Comparison of Hinduism and Jainism
Each student will prepare an individually written paper comparing TWO of the 4 traditions covered so far (Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, or Jainism). The papers must be a minimum of 750 words. There is no point penalty for going over the minimum word count. The paper must demonstrate knowledge drawn directly from the course (the readings, the lecture, and the discussion section handouts). Demonstrate this by using parenthetical citations that show where you are drawing the material from. Cited means to reference or paraphrase the material, which is different than using quotes. Only use quotations if the quote is needed to move your argument forward. Examples of citations are as follows: *The textbook should be cited as author and page number. For example: Amore pg. 125 *The discussion section handouts can be cited by their title. For example: “The Story of Yogini Manibhadrā” *Lecture PowerPoint slides can be cited by the module number and letter. For example, Lecture 2B. A works cited list is required. Do not bring in your personal knowledge or knowledge from your own research. This is not a research paper but instead should be drawing upon only class materials. No outside material should be included. Each paper must cite or reference at least TWO discussion section handouts (one from each of the traditions being compared). Any paper missing a discussion section handout will lose 10 points per missing handout.
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A Comparison of Hinduism and Jainism
Introduction
This essay endeavors to draw a comparative analysis between two seemingly distinct traditions, Hinduism and Jainism, placing them in a meaningful dialogue. The essay will investigate women's roles, life cycle beliefs, and religious rituals in Hinduism and Jainism. It aims to reveal both commonalities and distinctions, providing insights into these Indian religions' diverse beliefs and practices.
Life Cycle
In Hinduism and Jainism, core concepts of karma and reincarnation underpin their religious and philosophical frameworks. Despite some commonalities, these two traditions diverge significantly in their interpretation and application of these fundamental concepts. Hinduism places a strong emphasis on the notion of karma as the universal law of cause and effect (Lesson 2c). Actions, intentions, and deeds accumulate over an individual's lifetime, shaping their future. Good karma leads to favorable reincarnation, potentially elevating one's status in the caste system, ultimately seeking moksha or liberation from the perpetual cycle of samsara. This path often involves the fulfillment of one's dharma and the pursuit of righteous living.
In contrast, Jainism offers a distinct perspective on karma, deeply rooted in the practice of non-violence and compassion (Lesson 7a). From the Jain viewpoint, Karma is conceived as minuscule particles that adhere to the soul due to one's actions and intentions. Aggregating these karmic particles continually binds the soul to the birth, death, and rebirth cycle. In pursuing liberation, referred to as moksha, adherents of Jainism wholeheartedly commit to unwavering non-violence and a life of rigorous asceticism. The verses also highly valued good generosity and following of the doctrines in believers’ lives (Lefeber, pg. 431). This striking divergence in approaches to karma and reincarnation between Hinduism and Jainism underscores the intricate tapestry of beliefs within the Indian religious milieu. Hinduism focuses on ethical living and dharma, while Jainism centers on non-violence and ascetic practices for spiritual liberation, showcasing the rich diversity of Indian religious thought.
Approach to Spirituality
Hinduism and Jainism, two significant religions from the Indian subcontinent, take distinct approaches to deities and spirituality. Hinduism boasts a myriad of deities, each representing various facets of the divine, contributing to the religion's diversity. These deities play essential roles in the lives of Hindus, guiding them through religious practices, rituals, and daily life. Devotees often seek blessings and guidance from specific deities through rituals and offerings, establishing a profound connection to the divine (Amore pg. 83). Conversely, Jainism takes a non-theistic standpoint, with divinity not personified in deities but embodied in the potential of every soul to attain spiritual liberation (Amore pg. 182-184). This pursuit revolves around practices of asceticism, self-discipline, and unwavering commitment to non-violence, reflecting the religion's core principles.
The contrasting approaches to deities and spi...