The Influence of Jain Philosophy on Pythagoras

Mahaveer Sanglikar

jainway@gmail.com

Who Was Pythagoras?

Pythagoras was a renowned Greek philosopher and mathematician, born around 570 BCE on the island of Samos in Greece. He is celebrated for his contributions to geometry, particularly the Pythagorean theorem, which remains a cornerstone of mathematical education worldwide. His work extended beyond mathematics, influencing various disciplines, including music, astronomy, numerology, and metaphysics. Pythagoras believed in the interconnection of all sciences, particularly the relationship between music and mathematics.

Apart from his intellectual pursuits, Pythagoras founded a spiritual and philosophical movement known as Pythagoreanism. His followers, called Pythagoreans, adhered to a strict code of ethics and beliefs. Their practices and philosophy show remarkable parallels with Jainism, an ancient Indian philosophical tradition. This raises intriguing questions about whether Pythagoras was influenced by Jain philosophy, given that his lifetime overlapped with that of Vardhaman Mahaveer, the 24th Tirthankar of Jainism. Historical evidence of contact between ancient Greeks and Indians further supports this possibility.

Similarities Between Jain Philosophy and Pythagoreanism

Belief in the Soul and Rebirth

Pythagoreans believed in the immortality of the soul and its journey through cycles of birth and rebirth. They also accepted the concept of liberation from this cycle, achievable through a disciplined and ascetic life. Similarly, Jain philosophy centralizes the idea of the soul (“ātma”) as distinct from the body. Both traditions emphasize self-discipline and spiritual practice as the path to liberation.

This striking similarity suggests a shared understanding of metaphysical concepts, possibly influenced by cross-cultural exchanges. The Jains’ focus on self-realization and spiritual progress aligns closely with the Pythagorean emphasis on soul purification through ethical living and intellectual inquiry.

Vegetarianism and Non-Violence (Ahimsa)

One of the most notable aspects of Pythagorean philosophy is its advocacy for vegetarianism. Pythagoras and his followers adhered strictly to a plant-based diet, rooted in their belief in non-violence toward animals. Jainism’s principle of ahimsa (non-violence) is even more comprehensive, extending to all living beings. Jains consider vegetarianism a fundamental ethical practice.

Pythagoras’ famous statement highlights this belief:

“As long as man continues to be the ruthless destroyer of other living beings, he will never know health or peace.”

This moral stance underscores the profound ethical alignment between the two traditions.

Respect for All Life Forms

Both Pythagoras and Jainism emphasize reverence for all forms of life. Jains practice jiv daya (compassion for all living beings), and their commitment extends to avoiding harm to even the smallest creatures. Similarly, Pythagoras’ teachings reflect a deep respect for the interconnectedness of life and the ethical responsibility humans bear toward other beings.

Equality and Education for Women

Pythagoras was a progressive thinker who believed in equal opportunities for women, advocating for their education in philosophy and other disciplines. This was an extraordinary stance in ancient Greece, where women often faced social restrictions. Jainism, too, has a long history of promoting education and spiritual development for women. Ancient Jain texts mention that Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar, taught the sciences of mathematics and writing to his daughters, Brahmi and Sundari.

Mathematics and Spirituality

Mathematics occupies a central place in both Pythagoreanism and Jainism. Pythagoras saw numbers as the foundation of the universe, with mathematical harmony underlying all creation. Similarly, Jain philosophy incorporates advanced mathematical concepts in its cosmology and metaphysics. Ancient Jain scholars made significant contributions to mathematical fields such as geometry, combinatorics, and infinity theory.

The alignment between the mathematical emphasis of both traditions suggests a shared appreciation for the structured understanding of reality.

Simple Living and Attire

Pythagoreans adopted simple white cotton attire as part of their disciplined lifestyle. Jain monks also traditionally wear plain white robes, symbolizing purity and renunciation. This shared practice highlights the value both philosophies place on simplicity and detachment from materialism.

Recollection of Past Lives

Pythagoras claimed to recall his past lives, an ability referred to in Jain philosophy as jatismaran. Jain texts describe how Bhagwan Mahaveer, the 24th Tirthankar, also possessed this extraordinary capability. The belief in reincarnation and the ability to remember past lives are fundamental concepts in Jain metaphysics and align closely with Pythagorean beliefs.

Further Points of Reflection

Concept of Harmony: Pythagoras believed in the harmony of the cosmos, reflected in musical intervals and mathematical ratios. Jain cosmology similarly emphasizes balance and order in the universe, governed by eternal laws.

Role of Silence and Meditation: Pythagoreans practiced periods of silence as a means of self-control and spiritual growth. Jain monks also observe vows of silence (maun vrat) to cultivate inner discipline and mindfulness.

Community Practices: Both traditions encouraged communal living under ethical codes. The Pythagorean brotherhood shared resources and lived in harmony, echoing the Jain monastic tradition of collective spiritual pursuit.

Historical Context of Greek-Indian Interaction

The cultural exchange between ancient India and Greece provides a plausible explanation for these similarities. Trade routes and diplomatic missions fostered interactions, enabling the exchange of ideas. Greek travelers, such as Megasthenes, wrote extensively about Indian philosophies and practices. It is conceivable that Pythagoras or his disciples were influenced by Jain teachings during such exchanges.

Additionally, both Pythagoras and Mahavira lived during a transformative era marked by the emergence of new philosophical ideas. Their parallel emphasis on self-discipline, ethical conduct, and metaphysical inquiry reflects the universal quest for truth and spiritual liberation that transcended geographical boundaries.

Conclusion

The remarkable parallels between Pythagoreanism and Jain philosophy suggest a deep philosophical connection. Whether these similarities arose from direct influence or independent development remains debatable. However, given the historical interactions between India and Greece and the contemporaneity of Pythagoras and Mahavira, it is plausible that Jain philosophy impacted Pythagoras’ teachings.

Ultimately, these shared principles highlight a universal truth: the pursuit of ethical living, self-realization, and harmony transcends cultural and temporal boundaries. The lives and teachings of Pythagoras and Mahavira serve as enduring reminders of humanity’s shared spiritual heritage.