RISE OF JAINISM AND BUDDHISM

The 6th Century B.C was a period of religious revolution in various parts of the world. It was an age when great religious teachers, philosophers and thinkers lived. Their ideas made revolutionary changes in all aspects of life. Zoroaster in Persia and Confucius in China preached new doctrines. In India too, the 6th century B.C saw many changes. As many as 62 religious groups developed in the Gangetic plains. They observed innumerable religious customs and rituals. Jainism and Buddhism appeared to put an end to them.
Causes for the rise of Jainism and Buddhism
1. Religious life in ancient India was originally very simple. But in course of time complex rituals and ceremonies began to dominate the practice of worship. Poor people were unable to observe them.
2. Religion lost its simplicity. It became expensive and elaborate. Blind faith and superstitious beliefs confused the people.
3. Caste system became rigid and it created inequality in the society.
4. Religious literature was in Sanskrit. The common people spoke in Prakrit and Pall They could not understand Sanskrit.
5. The priestly class took advantage of it. They interpreted religion according to their convenience.
6. They considered themselves superior and others as inferiors.
7. Animal sacrifice became common. People did not like it.
8. People wanted a simple religion which would remove the evils in the society.