Similarities between Sikhism and Jainism - Essay Example

The expression ‘Jain’ refers to the ones who are supporters of the Jinas. In Jainism, it is believed that God is not the maker of the universe but is believed to be the liberated soul who has been successful at attaining Moksha. The origin of this religion is known to have been before the commencement of Pre-historic culture. The ethical practice of religion is the practice of non-violence which has been followed since the very existence of the religion around 5000 years ago (JainUniversity, “Origins of Jainism”). Unique Characteristics of SikhismSikhism is considered to be a new religion in India when compared to that of other religions such as Jainism or Hinduism.

The religion has been founded by Guru Sikhism Sikhism the unique characteristics of the religion are that they do not belief in pilgrimage, superstitions, fasting as well as other such kinds of rites. It tries to provide services to the community and thus tries to extend its help to believers who need them. The Sikhs are supposed to dress as per Guru Gobind Singh’s order. According to religious doctrines, the Sikhs should also wear turbans. Regular prayers and meditation are done using repeating the name of God.

The Khalsas’ in the Sikh religion are expected to monitor the five K’s such as Kaccha, Kara, Kirpan, Khanga, and Kes. This religion does not follow any symbolism or ritualism. There are not any altars or idols in the Gurudwara. The fact that every Gurudwara keeps the holy Sikh Scripture, which is also known as Guru Granth Sahib or Satguru, is a unique characteristic (Pecorino, “Philosophy of Religion”). Similarities between Sikhism and Jainism can be mentioned in that both religions namely Sikhism and Jainism believe that they are inhabitants of the Indian subcontinent.

It was found that like Sikhism, Jainism also refused the power of the Vedas and thus developed independent textual norms and traditions that were based upon the words as well as the illustration of their early teachers. It finally evolved completely new ways of communicating their thoughts with the common people (Apex Learning, “3e Jainism and Sikhism”). The main similarities of both religions are that both of them commemorate Diwali, a festival of lights. Jains are strictly vegetarians but the Sikhs are non-vegetarians.

However, it can be observed that in Gurdwaras, the food that is served is completely vegetarian so it is capable of obliging all the segments of the society. The other similarity between the two religions is found in the way they tend to remember god. Sikhs are supposed to practice truth and consciousness using Nam Simran. Jainism also believes in prayers as well as meditation. Furthermore, the Jains as well as the Sikhs are perceived to place greater emphasis on the theory of karma as well as the re-embodiment of the soul.