Question
State two causes responsible for the rise of Jainism and Buddhism.
Solution
Causes responsible for the rise of Jainism and Buddhism are stated below:
1. Degradation of Vedic Religion: The religion of the early Vedic people was quite simple and their religion was free from unnecessary rites and rituals, ceremonies and sacrifices. The priestly class had made the religion unbearable just to fulfil their needs and desires The people groaned under the heavy weight of rituals.
2. Dominance of the priestly class: As the caste system developed the priestly class became dominant in society. To keep their hold on society they filled it with unnecessary rites and rituals.From birth to death of the Aryans life the priestly class dominated.No one could escape from their guardianship.Even in society they enjoyed many privileges and called Bhudevas i.e.Gods on earth. But the people of six century B.C.were not ready to accept it.
