Introduction to New Religious and Philosophical Ideas

• Around 2,500 years ago, many people began questioning:
  • Why do people suffer?
  • What is the meaning of life?
  • What happens after death?
• Thinkers like Buddha and Mahavira searched for answers, which led to Buddhism and Jainism.
• These ideas challenged old rituals, caste divisions, and materialism, promoting simplicity and wisdom.

The Quest for Truth – Thinkers and Their Teachings

Who Were the Thinkers?

• These were teachers, philosophers, and monks who wanted to find the meaning of life.
• They rejected Vedic rituals and sacrifices and focused on inner peace and wisdom.
• They often wandered from place to place, discussing their ideas with common people.

Common Teachings of Thinkers

• Truth can be discovered through meditation and self-control.
• People should not harm others (Ahimsa – non-violence).
• Caste should not determine a person’s worth.

Gautama Buddha and the Teachings of Buddhism

Who Was Gautama Buddha?

• Born as Siddhartha Gautama in Lumbini (Nepal) around 563 BCE.
• A prince who left his luxurious life to find the cause of suffering.
• After meditating under a Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, he attained enlightenment and became Buddha (The Enlightened One).

Buddha’s Teachings

• Desire causes suffering – People suffer because they always want more.
• To end suffering, give up greed and follow the right path.
• Do not harm others (Ahimsa – non-violence).
• Meditation leads to wisdom and peace.

The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path

The Four Noble Truths

• Dukkha – Life is full of suffering.
• Samudaya – Suffering is caused by desire.
• Nirodha – Suffering can end if desires end.
• Magga – The way to end suffering is by following the Eightfold Path.

The Eightfold Path (Right Way to Live)

• Right View – Understand the truth of suffering.
• Right Thought – Have good intentions.
• Right Speech – Speak truthfully and kindly.
• Right Action – Do not harm others.
• Right Livelihood – Have an honest job.
• Right Effort – Always try to improve yourself.
• Right Mindfulness – Be aware of your thoughts and actions.
• Right Concentration – Meditate to achieve peace.

Jainism and the Teachings of Mahavira

Who Was Mahavira?

• Born as Vardhamana Mahavira in a royal family of Bihar (599 BCE).
• Left his luxurious life at age 30 to find spiritual truth.
• Became a monk and preached Jainism.

Mahavira’s Teachings

• Ahimsa (Non-violence) – Do not harm any living being.
• Truthfulness – Always speak the truth.
• No stealing – Take only what is given freely.
• Simple Living – Avoid material wealth.
• No Possessions – Jain monks do not own anything.

The Five Great Vows (Pancha Mahavrata) of Jainism

• Ahimsa (Non-violence)
• Satya (Truthfulness)
• Satya (Truthfulness)
• Brahmacharya (Celibacy or self-control)
• Aparigraha (Non-possession or detachment from wealth)

The Spread of Buddhism and Jainism

How Did Buddhism Spread?

• Monks and nuns (bhikkhus and bhikkhunis) traveled and taught people.
• Buddha’s teachings were written in Pali and Sanskrit, making them easy to understand.
• Emperor Ashoka promoted Buddhism, building stupas and sending missionaries to other countries.

How Did Jainism Spread?

• Jain monks traveled barefoot across India, spreading their teachings.
• Trade routes helped spread Jainism to Gujarat, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
• Jains focused on non-violence and simple living, which attracted followers.

Monasteries and the Role of Monks and Nuns

What Were Monasteries?

• Monasteries (Viharas) were places where monks and nuns lived and meditated.
• These were built in forests, caves, and cities.
• Monks and nuns followed strict rules of discipline.

Role of Monks and Nuns

• Taught religion and moral values.
• Lived a simple life, begging for food (Bhiksha).
• Wrote down teachings in books and scriptures.

Impact of These Ideas on Society

How Did Buddhism and Jainism Change Society?

• Challenged the caste system – People from all castes could follow these religions.
• Emphasized non-violence (Ahimsa) – Inspired social movements for peace.
• Encouraged equality and simple living – Everyone had equal chances of enlightenment.
• Influenced art and architecture – Stupas, monasteries, and rock-cut caves were built.

Conclusion

• Around 2,500 years ago, new religious and philosophical ideas emerged in India.
• Buddha and Mahavira rejected rituals and focused on truth, non-violence, and wisdom.
• Buddha’s Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path showed the way to enlightenment.
• Mahavira taught Jain principles of non-violence, truth, and simple living.
• Both religions spread widely, influencing art, culture, and society.
• Monasteries (viharas) became centers of learning and meditation.