All three traditions share a South Asian birthplace and a belief in karma and rebirth, yet each takes a distinctive path toward liberation. Hinduism, often called the world’s oldest living faith, weaves together a rich tapestry of gods and goddesses, sacred texts (like the Vedas and Upanishads), and diverse rituals. Devotion (bhakti), knowledge (jnana), and selfless action (karma yoga) all offer routes to moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Buddhism steps away from any creator god, with Siddhartha Gautama—known as the Buddha—as its guiding star. Liberation (nirvana) springs from understanding the Four Noble Truths and walking the Eightfold Path. Meditation and mindfulness have become household names in today’s wellness scene, yet their roots lie in the Buddha’s call to uproot desire and ignorance. Compassion shines at the core, urging followers to alleviate suffering for all beings.

Jainism champions ahimsa—non-violence—to such an extent that even tiny insects receive protection. Founded by Mahavira, its ascetic practitioners believe karma to be a subtle matter: karma particles literally cling to the soul until removed through rigorous fasting, meditation, and ethical discipline. No meat, no root vegetables, no harm. This strict regimen aims for kevala jnana, or omniscience, the ultimate release.

A few standout differences: • Divine vs. Non-theistic: Hinduism accommodates a pantheon and impersonal Brahman; both Buddhism and Jainism reject creator deities, though they revere enlightened teachers.
• Ahimsa in Practice: While Hindu texts extol non-violence, classical Hindu epics sometimes justify righteous warfare. Buddhism calls for “right action” without bloodshed. Jainism, however, practically turns non-violence into an art form.
• Path to Freedom: Hindus might chant mantras or perform elaborate pujas. Buddhists settle the mind in mindfulness retreats. Jains embrace rigorous self-purification—think month-long fasts or the sweeping of paths to spare tiny creatures.

Today’s vegan movement and ethical fashion brands owe a nod to Jain principles—proof that an ancient vow against harm still resonates across the globe. At Interfaith forums like the 2025 Parliament of World’s Religions, practitioners of all three traditions often remark how their distinct views on karma and compassion create fertile ground for mutual respect, even as each follows its own lantern-lit trail to enlightenment.