Ethics of Jainism

Sculpture depicting the Jain concept of ahimsa (non-injury)

Jain ethical code prescribes two dharmas or rules of conduct. One for those who wish to become ascetic and another for the śrāvaka (householders). Five fundamental vows are prescribed for both votaries. These vows are observed by śrāvakas (householders) partially and are termed as anuvratas (small vows). Ascetics observe these fives vows more strictly and therefore observe complete abstinence. These five vows are:

According to Jain text, Puruşārthasiddhyupāya:[1]

All these subdivisions (injury, falsehood, stealing, unchastity, and attachment) are hiṃsā as indulgence in these sullies the pure nature of the soul. Falsehood etc. have been mentioned separately only to make the disciple understand through illustrations.

— Puruşārthasiddhyupāya (42)

Apart from five main vows, a householder is expected to observe seven supplementary vows (śeelas) and last sallekhanā vow.[2][3]

  1. ^ Vijay K. Jain 2012, p. 33.
  2. ^ Sangave 2001, p. 63.
  3. ^ Sangave 2001, p. 118.