Comparative Dharma: Jain, Buddhist, and Sikh Perspectives
This domain tests how Jain, Buddhist, and Sikh teachings define dharma, karma, liberation, and community, and how they differ from the Hindu Dharmashastra model.
Jain
Jain dharma centres on ahimsa, anekantavada, and syadvada. Karma is subtle matter (pudgala) binding the jiva; liberation requires ratnatraya-right faith, knowledge, and conduct. Monks take five mahavratas; laypeople take anuvratas. There is no creator god; the kevalin knows all.
Buddhist
The Buddha's dharma is the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. Karma operates without a permanent self (anatta); craving causes dukkha; nirvana ends rebirth. The Vinaya governs monastic life, while lay ethics emphasises precepts and generosity.
Sikh
Sikh dharma centres on Waheguru, the Guru Granth Sahib, hukam, and grace. Practices include nam japna, kirat karna, vand chhakna, sewa, and langar. The Khalsa was founded in 1699. Caste equality is strongly asserted, though social practice varies.
Worked example. On ahimsa, a Jain monk avoids harming even insects; a Hindu king may use force to protect subjects; a Buddhist follows a middle path of non-harm and restraint. The reasoning compares the scope of the norm and the social role, not just the word ahimsa.
Traps. Do not treat Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism as Hindu sects; do not use dharma as if it meant only Hindu law; do not say Sikhism is caste-blind in practice; do not confuse Jain kevala with Buddhist nirvana; do not ignore monastic-lay distinctions.