Jainism was founded in 5^th century BC (the same time as Buddhism) while Buddhism is the “middle way” Jainism is the “strict way” Jainism and Buddhism are both offshoots of Hinduism.

They reject the Hindu gods but believe everything is a inferior god. The chief God is Mahavira. But he can’t help you gain salvation (release from karma and reincarnation)

They have two denominations the Diganbara, monks and nuns with vow of nudity living in monasteries, and Svatembara, monks and nuns that wear white robes.

The five tenets are:

1. Destroy no life.
2. Do not lie.
3. Practice charity.
4. Practice chastity.
5. Posses nothing, want nothing.
6. Devotion of whole life to task (Moshka).

The Holy books of this religion are:

1. the Agama – teachings of Mahavira
2. the Cheda-sutras – rules of asceticism
3. the Culika-sutras – the nature of mind and knowledge