6.7. Spread and Decline

Jainism:

• Spread in western and southern India
• Patronized by kings like Chandragupta Maurya

Jainism saw its growth primarily in the western and southern regions of India. This expansion was significantly supported through the patronage of influential kings, one notable example being Chandragupta Maurya, the first ruler of the Maurya Empire. He embraced Jainism and played a vital role in its promotion and protection, which helped spread its teachings during his reign.

Think of Jainism as a small business that gains popularity after receiving a favorable endorsement from a well-known celebrity. Just as the endorsement brings attention and customers, the support from rulers like Chandragupta Maurya helped Jainism attract more followers and establish itself in various regions.

• Declined due to strict practices and internal divisions

Despite its initial spread, Jainism faced challenges that led to its decline. One major factor was its strict practices, which made it less accessible to the general population. Many people found the rigorous discipline hard to follow. Additionally, internal divisions within the community further weakened its unity and appeal, causing some followers to drift away or form separate groups.

Imagine a club that has very strict rules for membership, which can make it hard for new people to join and stay active. If the members begin to argue about how things should be done, it can create confusion and discourage others from participating. This is similar to what happened with Jainism, where strict practices and disagreements among followers led to its decline.

Buddhism:

• Spread across India and abroad (Sri Lanka, China, Japan, etc.)
• Supported by rulers like Ashoka

Buddhism experienced a much broader and faster spread compared to Jainism. It not only flourished within India but also extended its reach to other regions such as Sri Lanka, China, and Japan. This expansive growth was largely facilitated by powerful supporters like Emperor Ashoka, who embraced Buddhism after his conversion. Ashoka's efforts to promote the religion included sending missionaries to various parts of Asia, thereby increasing its footprint.

Consider Buddhism like a popular viral trend that starts in one place but quickly spreads across the globe. When people share it through social media (like how Ashoka sent missionaries), it can reach diverse communities quickly and lead to widespread adoption and adaptation across different cultures.

• Declined in India due to loss of royal patronage and revival of Hinduism

Buddhism's decline in India can be attributed to several intersecting factors. One significant aspect was the reduction in royal patronage, which had previously provided essential support for Buddhist monasteries and schools. As influential rulers converted to Hinduism or shifted their focus, the financial and political backing for Buddhism waned. Additionally, a revival of Hinduism during this period also played a crucial role in diminishing Buddhism's prominence in its homeland.

Think about a popular television show that starts to lose its audience when a competitor airs a new hit series. If the creators of the show (like the rulers of India) stop promoting it and focus on the new series (the revival of Hinduism), viewers will gradually switch their attention. Similarly, with less support and rising competition, Buddhism faced a decline in India.

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