Examine how Buddhism emerged as an alternative tradition to the emphasis on rituals and sacrifices in the Vedic tradition, and elaborate on the significance of this development

Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

Directive word:

Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Start by giving context.

Body:

First, write about the various factors responsible for the emergence of Buddhism – Influence of Time, Simple Doctrines, Personality of Buddha, Inexpensive, No Caste, Royal Patronage etc.

Next, comment about the role of excessive importance given to rituals and sacrifices in Vedic tradition and its role in popularity of Buddhism.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

Answer:

Introduction:

Siddhartha Gautama, commonly known as "the Buddha," established Buddhism as a religion over 2,500 years ago in India. With a following of approximately 470 million people, Buddhism is regarded as one of the major world religions by scholars. Although it originated in India, the religion has had a strong presence in East and Southeast Asia throughout history. Currently, its influence is expanding in the West as well. Many of Buddhism's ideas and philosophies share similarities with those of other religions.

Body:

The emergence of Jainism and Buddhism in the 6th century B.C. can be attributed to the religious turmoil in India at the time. The intricate and costly rituals and sacrifices that were endorsed during the Later Vedic period were not favored by the general populace, leading to dissatisfaction and unrest. Nevertheless, the movement towards these religions was also influenced by societal factors, which are listed below.

Reasons for rise of Buddhism:

• Social cause: The rigid caste system in Indian society created inequality, which was a social cause for the rise of Jainism and Buddhism. The Kshatriyas, who belonged to the warrior class, resented the dominance of the priestly class, and interestingly, both Buddha and Mahavira were of Kshatriya origin.
• Religious upheaval: Ancient India once had a simple religious life. However, in the Later Vedic period, complex rituals and ceremonies became prevalent in the practice of worship. The common people found these complex rituals and sacrifices to be unacceptable, as they became expensive and elaborate. Additionally, blind faith and superstitious beliefs caused confusion among the people.
• Economic cause: The economic cause for the rise of Jainism and Buddhism can be attributed to the growth of trade which led to improved economic conditions for the Vaisyas. With their newfound wealth, the Vaisyas sought to enhance their social status, but the orthodox Varna system did not permit this. Moreover, money-lending was necessary for traders, which was prohibited in the Vedas. Consequently, the merchant class extended its primary support to these new religions.
• In addition, the rise of agriculture resulted in an increased demand for draught animals, which were often sacrificed in religious ceremonies. The principle of nonviolence, which was promoted by Buddhism, was better suited for settled agrarian communities.

• Brahminic supremacy: The priests asserted their superiority over others, considering themselves as elite. They used their knowledge of Sanskrit to interpret religion to suit their own interests. However, these new religions were inclusive and taught in local languages such as Prakrit and Pali, which appealed to the common people.

Impact of Buddhism on Indian society

• Languages and Literature: Jains made significant contributions to the development of Prakrit and Kannada literature, while Buddhism played a key role in the evolution of Pali and other local languages.
• Art and Architecture: The stupas at Sanchi, Bharhut and Gaya, as well as Jaina temples at Mount Abu in Rajasthan, are remarkable examples of architecture. Meanwhile, Buddhism is credited for the creation of chaityas and viharas found in various parts of India.
• Philosophy: The philosophy of ahimsa was a major contribution of these religions, and it later became one of the most cherished values of our nation.
• Political progress: The rise of these religions also led to the development of political institutions such as sabhas and samitis. Additionally, they played a role in spreading Indian culture beyond its borders to other parts of Asia.
• Simple Religion: The principles of this religion were simple, making it easily understandable and followed by the people, unlike the Vedic religion, which was more complex.
• Opposition to Caste System: Due to their opposition, the new religions contributed to the reduction of complexity of the caste system in the society.

Conclusion

Buddhism emerged as a response to the evolving needs of society, supported by a rising class and left an enduring imprint on India's culture, architecture, philosophy and way of life. Certain Buddhist principles have been assimilated by Hinduism over the course of their extensive association and have become an inseparable part of society. These religions also had an impact on neighboring countries and aided India in extending its influence in these regions, creating a cultural bond that continues to this day.