Answer

It is difficult to say simply that “Jainism came first” or “Hinduism came first,” because both traditions are very ancient and developed over a long period.

From the Jain tradition, Jain Dharma is considered eternal and beginningless. The teachings of the Tirthankars appear again and again in every time cycle. In the present time cycle, Lord Rishabhdev, the 1st Tirthankar, is regarded as the earliest Tirthankar.

Historically, both Jainism and Hindu traditions are among the oldest religious traditions of India.

Explanation

The word “Hinduism” refers to a broad family of traditions that developed over time, including Vedic, Upanishadic, devotional, philosophical, and ritual traditions.

Jainism is a distinct Dharma with its own:

• Tirthankars
• Scriptures
• Philosophy of soul and karma
• Path of non-violence, self-discipline, and liberation

Jain tradition does not view Jain Dharma as founded by Mahavir Swami. Rather, Mahavir Swami is the 24th Tirthankar of the present time cycle, who revived and taught the eternal Jain path.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, the main focus is not on competing over age, but on understanding and practicing the path of liberation:

• Ahimsa — non-violence
• Aparigraha — non-possessiveness
• Anekantvad — understanding truth from many viewpoints
• Samyak Darshan, Samyak Gyan, Samyak Charitra — right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct

Takeaway

According to Jain belief, Jain Dharma is eternal. Historically, both Jainism and Hinduism are ancient Indian traditions, but Jainism is an independent Dharma and not a branch of Hinduism.