Here are the main differences in a simple, Jain-focused way:

• View of the self (atman/jiva)

- Jainism: Each being has a jiva (soul) that is pure but encumbered by karma. The goal is to free the jiva from karma and attain kevali/omniscient awareness. - Hinduism: Many schools teach an eternal self (atma) that is part of or identical with Brahman in various ways. The ultimate goal is union or realization of that divine self, often through different paths.

• God and creation

- Jainism: Not a creator God who runs the universe. The universe operates by natural law (no beginning or end in a personal god). Worship is directed toward upliftment, right conduct, and the Tirthankaras who showed the path. - Hinduism: Wide variety of beliefs about the divine. Some traditions emphasize a personal God or gods who create, sustain, and destroy the universe; others emphasize Brahman as an impersonal ultimate reality.

• Karma and liberation

- Jainism: Karma is a real, physical substance that binds to the soul. Liberation (moksha) occurs by purifying the soul through right conduct, right knowledge, and right faith; complete non-violence and ascetic discipline are central. - Hinduism: Karma also binds the soul, but liberation (moksha) is achieved through various paths (jnana, bhakti, karma, Raja yoga) depending on the tradition. The emphasis on ritual practice, devotion, or knowledge varies by school.

• Core ethical emphasis

- Jainism: Absolute non-violence (ahimsa) toward all living beings is central. This shapes diet, conduct, and daily life. Strict non-attachment and self-discipline are emphasized. - Hinduism: Ethics vary by tradition, but many Hindu paths emphasize dharma (righteous duty), compassion, truth, and non-violence in many communities; the exact code depends on the sect, lineage, and stage of life.

• Scriptures and practices

- Jainism: Sacred texts include Agamas (for Digambaras and Śvētāmbaras have other compilations). Practices focus on self-discipline, fasting, meditation, and the Five Great Vows for monks and directives for lay followers. - Hinduism: A large, plural canon including the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, Ramayana, Mahabharata (including the Bhagavad Gita), and many regional/shrine traditions. Practices range from temple rituals, yajnas (rituals), devotion (bhakti), meditation, and study.

• Path for laypeople

- Jainism: Lay followers live by the ahimsa principle, truth, non-stealing, celibacy within marriage, and non-attachment, supporting monastic communities and personal discipline. - Hinduism: Lay practitioners follow diverse paths—devotion, study, ritual worship, community duties, and family life—reflecting the wide spectrum of Hindu traditions.

• Community and social structure

- Jainism: Historically monastic communities (Digambaras and Śvētāmbaras) with strict discipline; lay communities support them. Emphasis on personal spiritual effort. - Hinduism: Broad, highly diverse communities with many castes, temples, and guru lineages. Social roles and practices vary widely by region and tradition.

If you’d like, I can tailor this to a specific Jain tradition (Digambara or Śvētāmbara) or compare particular beliefs side by side.