Chronicles of India: Decline of Jainism

Development of Jainism as a religion is seen as a response to the then Brahmin dominated Hinduism. It attracted followers initially but soon lost the steam. Some of the major reasons are:
  1. Austerity: Jainism is a tough religion to practice. Apart from the very tough conditions for monks which included absolute control over senses, renunciation of physical objects etc., the households didn’t have it easy either.
  2. Lack of Patronage: Jainism initially had the patronage of some great kings including Chandragupta Maurya, Kharvela and Ajatshatru. But it isn’t easy being a king and strictly following the ideals of nonviolence and hence Jainism soon gave way to Buddhism and Hinduism.
  3. Advent of Buddhism: Buddhism rose at the same time as Jainism. Thus Jainism had to compete with a religion which was less demanding from the followers. Buddhism looked more practical to those who wanted to escape the Brahmin dominated Hinduism.
  4. Division into sects: Jainism divided into two sects: Digambars and Shwetambars. This division weakened Jainism.
  5. Revival of Hinduism: Development of Bhawatism, Shaivism and Vaishnavism attracted those who wanted an easier way to salvation. The rigorous rituals and ceremonies gave way to Bhakti as a way to connect with god.
Jains are currently minorities in India, with a total number of around 4.5 million. 

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