- Founding Figures: Jainism was founded by spiritual teachers called Tirthankaras, with Lord Rishabha being the first and Lord Mahavira being the 24th and most prominent.
- Non-Theistic: Jainism is non-theistic; it does not believe in a creator god.
- Ahimsa: The core principle of Jainism is ahimsa, or non-violence, which extends to all living beings.
- Vegetarianism: Jains are strict vegetarians, avoiding harm to animals by not consuming meat, fish, or eggs.
- Asceticism: Many Jains choose to live an ascetic lifestyle, renouncing material possessions and leading a life of simplicity and self-discipline.
- Five Vows: Jain monks and nuns follow the five vows: ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truthfulness), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (celibacy), and aparigraha (non-possessiveness).
- Karma: Jains believe in the accumulation of karma through actions, which affects the soul's progress toward liberation.
- Moksha: The ultimate goal in Jainism is achieving moksha, liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
- Jain Scriptures: The Jain canon includes texts like the Agamas and Angas, which contain teachings and principles.
- Three Jewels: Jains take refuge in three jewels: right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.
- Digambara and Svetambara: Jainism is divided into two major sects, with the Digambara sect practicing nudity and asceticism and the Svetambara sect allowing monks to wear white robes.
- Tirtha and Pilgrimages: Jains visit pilgrimage sites, or tirthas, which hold religious significance. One famous tirtha is Shikharji.
- Jain Temples: Jain temples are known for their intricate architecture, often featuring idols and carvings of Tirthankaras.
- Jain Symbol: The Jain symbol is the "Swastika," symbolizing well-being and good luck.
- Panch Kalyanak: Jains celebrate five auspicious events in the lives of Tirthankaras: conception, birth, renunciation, enlightenment, and liberation.
- Samavasarana: The preaching assembly is an essential concept in Jainism, where Tirthankaras deliver sermons to both monks and laypeople.
- Jain Festivals: Mahavir Jayanti, Paryushana, and Diwali are some of the important Jain festivals.
- Anekantavada: This doctrine teaches the importance of multiple perspectives and non-absolutism in understanding the truth.
- Syadvada: Syadvada is a philosophical tool for expressing the multi-sided nature of truth, often summarized as "perhaps."
- Acharya: Acharyas are respected Jain spiritual teachers and scholars who lead monastic communities.
- Jain Art and Literature: Jainism has contributed significantly to Indian art, with illustrated manuscripts and temple sculptures depicting Tirthankaras and other spiritual figures.
- Jain Dietary Restrictions: In addition to vegetarianism, Jains avoid certain root vegetables and fruits, as uprooting them may harm small organisms.
- Compassion for All Beings: Jains practice compassion not only toward humans but also toward all living beings, including insects and plants.
- Jain Education: Jain institutions promote education, both religious and secular, and have played a role in preserving ancient knowledge.
- Global Jain Community: Jainism has followers around the world, with significant communities in India, the United States, Canada, and other countries.
Jainism is a religion that emphasizes spiritual development, ethical conduct, and non-violence, making it a unique and influential tradition in the religious landscape.