Concept:
• Jainism advocated for extreme non-violence and asceticism as the path to spiritual liberation.
• It spread through a combination of royal patronage and support from the merchant classes.
Step 1: Core ideas of Jainism
The world is animated and even inanimate objects possess a soul (Jiva).
The principle of Ahimsa is extreme; non-injury to plants, insects, and animals is mandatory.
Asceticism and penance are required to free the soul from the cycle of Karma.
Step 2: Spread in ancient India
Jainism received strong support from merchant communities, who found the emphasis on non-violence compatible with their lifestyle.
Kings and dynasties, such as the Mauryas (Chandragupta Maurya) and the Chalukyas, provided patronage, helping Jainism establish centers in Karnataka, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.