BUDDHIST AND JAIN LITERATURE

Published on 09 Oct 2025

Comparative Analysis of Buddhist and Jain Literature

Buddhism and Jainism are ancient religions that developed during the days of Ancient India. Buddhism is based on the teachings of Gautama Buddha, while Jainism is based on the teachings of Mahavira.

Aspect	Buddhism	Jainism
Sacred texts	Primary text is Tripitaka (Vinaya Pitaka, Sutta Pitaka, Abhidhamma Pitaka). Additionally, Mahayana Buddhism has its own scripture known as Mahayana Sutras.	Jain Agamas (Shvetambara and Digambara Agamas)
Central Figures	Buddha	Tirthankaras (Mahavira and previous 23 Tirthankaras)
Language	Buddhist literature written in the Pali language and later in Sanskrit	Jain literature written in Magathi and Prakrit.
Symbol	Dharma Wheel (Dharmachakra)	Ahimsa hand (symbol of non-violence)
Core Teachings	Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, Middle Path	Five Great Vows, Three Jewels, Non-attachment
Philosophy	Four Noble Truths, Noble Eightfold Path	Non-violence, truthfulness, non-attachment, karma
Cosmology	Multiple realms of existence, impermanence	Multi-layered universe, eternal souls, cycle of rebirth
Narrative Literature	They mainly convey moral lessons, philosophical teachings and guidance. Example: Jataka tales provide moral lessons while Sutras provide philosophical guidance.	These texts often contain didactic stories and anecdotes to illustrate ethical and spiritual principles. Example: Puranas, Prakirnakas.