Means of release in Jainism and Buddhism

Jainism

According to Jainism philosophy, the ever-lasting and real happiness is achieved by a person when the karmic matter is removed from the self. Jainism believes that the inherent powers of the self are crippled by the karmic matter attached to it. The most sacred text of Jainism-Tattvartha-adhigama-sutra (also known as moksha-shastra) states that right belief, right knowledge and right conduct constitute the right path to salvation of the self. The latter three are called “ratna-traya ” meaning three jewels. Tirthankaras are great guides to the individual self to cross the turbulent stream of existence comprising births and deaths. There were 24 tirthankaras .The inception of the philosophy starts with Adhinath. Mahavira is the 24th tirthankara .According to Jainism, without their guidance, it would be quite difficult to attain nirvana—the salvation of real happiness (profound peace of mind). The self in the state of liberation remains in Jnana of Bliss in the world of “aloka-akash ”.

Buddhism

Just like in Jainism, Buddhism advocates mukti which is a state of mind of pure and profound peace. Ending of suffering and attainment of profound peace—nirvana—requires wisdom, ethical conduct and mental discipline. Wisdom purifies the mind and brings in spiritual insight. It allows one towards a right goal compatible with the new vision. Ethical conduct leads him to understand that his actions should be such that they do not end up in harming others and causing misery to them. Mental discipline should be to cultivate our mind through contemplative and meditative practices. The meditation gives practice to gain insight into the changing flow and passing off of events and experiences. Buddhism advocates self-practice whereas Jainism insists to follow the footsteps of tirthankaras .