Which of the following were common to both Buddhism and Jainism?

Correct Option

• Statements 2, 3, and 4 are common to both Buddhism and Jainism, making option (2) the correct choice.

• 2. Indifference to the authority of the Vedas:

  Both Buddhism and Jainism emerged as heterodox traditions, fundamentally rejecting the divine authority and infallibility of the Vedic scriptures. They challenged the Brahmanical dominance and the ritualistic framework associated with Vedic religion.

• 3. Denial of efficacy of rituals:

  Both religions critiqued the elaborate and often expensive Vedic rituals, sacrifices (yajnas), and ceremonies. They emphasized personal ethical conduct, self-discipline, and inner purification over external ritualistic practices for spiritual liberation.

• 4. Non-injury to animal life:

  Ahimsa (non-violence) is a fundamental ethical principle in both Buddhism and Jainism. This principle extends to all living beings, including animals, advocating for their protection and condemning harm. Jainism, in particular, practices Ahimsa with extreme rigor.

Incorrect Options

• 1. Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment:

  Buddhism advocates the 'Middle Path' (Madhyamaka Pratipada), which seeks to avoid both extreme asceticism and excessive indulgence in worldly pleasures. In contrast, Jainism, particularly its Digambara sect, emphasizes rigorous asceticism, severe penance, and self-mortification as a path to liberation, which represents an extreme form of penance. Therefore, this statement is not common to both religions.