Rise of heterodox sects.

This is also called as Shramana movement. Study Notes on Buddhism and Jainism Buddhism and Jainism – Their Emergence. March 31, 2020 Ancient Indian History.

Buddhism is a polytheistic religion and it's main goal is to gain enlightenment. Causes for the rise and growth of heterodox sects: Of these sects, Jainism and Buddhism were the most important, and they emerged as the most potent religious reform movements. In Post Vedic age, there was emergence of 62 heterodox sects, which raised voice against prevalent Bramhinical order and had brought about intellectual revolution. By 6th Century BC, the caste system became highly complicated and the lower caste people faced all socio-economic problems while high caste people led a safe and dignified life.

Buddhism is centered upon the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha, whereas Jainism is centered on the life and teachings of Mahavira. Each of these sects is also divided into subgroups. Jain sects. Jains are divided into two major sects; the Digambara (meaning sky clad) sect and the Svetambara (meaning white clad) sect. Jainism is also a polytheistic religion and it's goals are based on non-violence and liberation the soul. We hear of as many as 62 religious sects which arose in the middle Gangetic plains in the sixth century B.C. Buddhism, Jainism and Heterodox Sects.