Jainism

Jainism includes Digambara and Svetambara traditions, which share major ethical and philosophical principles while differing on some scriptures, practices and historical interpretations. Jainism does not teach a creator god governing the universe.

Mahavira

Religious leader · Traditionally dated to the 6th century BCE; exact chronology differs between traditions and scholars · Jain ethics, nonviolence, ascetic discipline, karma and liberation

Mahavira is regarded in Jainism as the twenty-fourth Tirthankara and the central teacher associated with the historical formation of the present Jain community.

Umasvati

Philosopher · Commonly placed in the early centuries CE; exact dates uncertain · Jain philosophy, ethics, metaphysics, karma and liberation

Umasvati, also called Umasvami, is the Jain philosopher associated with the Tattvartha Sutra, an influential systematic presentation of Jain doctrine.

Ahimsa and the Limits of Nonviolence

Acaranga Sutra · Instructions concerning restraint in action, speech and intention

Is complete nonviolence possible, and when may defensive or protective force be justified?

All Living Beings Desire Life

Acaranga Sutra · Teachings on avoiding injury to living beings

How far should moral concern extend beyond human beings?

Many-Sided Truth and Intellectual Humility

Tattvartha Sutra · Jain principles later expressed through anekantavada and conditional predication

Does recognising multiple perspectives imply that all claims are equally true?

Non-Possession and Attachment

Tattvartha Sutra · Teachings associated with aparigraha and restraint

How much property and consumption can be justified while others suffer deprivation and environmental damage?

Right Faith, Knowledge and Conduct

Tattvartha Sutra · Tattvartha Sutra 1.1

Can correct belief be separated from evidence and ethical conduct?