What are the differences and similarities between Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism?

I was looking on websites and they seem very similar in lots of ways.

Hinduism is actually a way of life. With thousand and odd gods its all confusion.

I might not be perfect, but, I'll try.

Hinduism, which is the founding one among them, like Judaism is for us; started the "Thou shalt not hurt by thought, word or deed" principle of non-violence in their philosophy of "Ahimsa para mo drama." And, to take care of the eventuality of the need for violence and killing under attack, they created the Warrior Kshatriya Caste, who were exempt of this. Somehow, the Sikhs are like a denomination of the Hindu Warriors, but, I haven't really figured this one out.

Buddhism, while advocating the same principle, though in a stricter manner, permitted all monks to develop the Art of Self Defense or the Martial Arts. Remember that Kung FY and Karate are Buddhist Arts?

Now, Jainism was the extreme non-violence lot. They believe in non-violence, period. No ifs and buts. The Jains glorify the pacifist who dies not fighting back at the tormentor !?

The similarity is that they all flow from the common philosophy; while the difference seems to be in the intensity of the application of the principle.

I could be wrong, though.

Peace.

ST

Too many similarities and differences at the same time. I suggest you read the book Intro. to World Religions by Coogan.

Al three teach the belief in reincarnation.