Discuss the conflicting nature of religious experiences with special reference to Buddhism and Jainism.

Core Philosophical Differences & Conflicting Experiences

The fundamental conflict arises from differing views on the nature of reality and the self. Buddhism, particularly in its early forms, emphasizes Anatta (non-self), asserting that there is no permanent, unchanging essence within individuals. Religious experience in Buddhism, therefore, often involves realizing this emptiness and detaching from the illusion of a self. This leads to a focus on impermanence (Anicca) and suffering (Dukkha), with liberation achieved through extinguishing desire and attachment.

Jainism, conversely, posits a belief in the eternal and individual soul (Jiva). Each Jiva is inherently pure but becomes entangled in the cycle of rebirth due to Karma. Religious experience in Jainism centers around purifying the Jiva by shedding accumulated karma through rigorous asceticism and non-violence (Ahimsa). This creates a fundamental conflict: Buddhism seeks to dismantle the illusion of self, while Jainism aims to liberate the true self.

Asceticism and the Body

Both traditions value asceticism, but the rationale and extent differ. In Buddhism, ascetic practices, while initially emphasized by the Buddha, were later tempered. The Middle Way advocates avoiding extremes of self-indulgence and self-mortification. The goal is to cultivate mindfulness and wisdom, not to punish the body. Buddhist meditative experiences often involve cultivating equanimity towards bodily sensations.

Jain asceticism, however, is far more extreme. Digambara Jains practice complete nudity, believing clothing adds to karmic burden. Fasting, prolonged meditation in difficult postures, and self-imposed restrictions are common. The Jain emphasis on Ahimsa extends to all living beings, including microscopic organisms, leading to meticulous practices to avoid harming any life form. This intense focus on bodily control and purification represents a contrasting religious experience to the Buddhist emphasis on mental cultivation.

The Role of Deities and Rituals

Early Buddhism largely rejected the Vedic pantheon and elaborate rituals. While later Buddhist traditions incorporated local deities and devotional practices, the core emphasis remained on self-reliance and the individual's path to enlightenment. Religious experiences in Buddhism are primarily internal, focused on meditation and insight.

Jainism, while also rejecting Vedic sacrifices, developed its own pantheon of Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers) who serve as role models for liberation. Jains venerate these Tirthankaras and engage in elaborate temple rituals, including offering prayers and performing pujas. These devotional practices provide a different avenue for religious experience, centered on reverence and seeking blessings.

Liberation (Nirvana vs. Moksha)

The ultimate goal – liberation – is conceived differently. Buddhist Nirvana is often described as the cessation of suffering and the extinguishing of the fires of desire, aversion, and ignorance. It’s a state beyond conceptualization, often described as emptiness. The experience of Nirvana is a complete transcendence of the conditioned world.

Jain Moksha, on the other hand, involves the liberation of the Jiva from the cycle of rebirth and its ascent to the highest realm (Siddhashila). The liberated Jiva retains its individuality but is free from karmic bondage. This represents a fundamentally different understanding of liberation – one that preserves the self rather than dissolving it.

Table Summarizing Key Conflicts

Feature	Buddhism	Jainism
Concept of Self	Anatta (Non-Self)	Eternal Jiva (Soul)
Asceticism	Middle Way; Moderate practices	Extreme; Nudity, fasting, rigorous self-control
Role of Deities	Initially rejected; Later incorporated locally	Veneration of Tirthankaras
Liberation	Nirvana – Cessation of suffering, emptiness	Moksha – Liberation of Jiva, ascent to Siddhashila