Jainism UPSC Notes: Doctrines, Sects, Teachings, and Contributions

Jainism is an important topic for UPSC under Ancient History and Art & Culture. Studying it will give you clarity on India’s reform movements and ethical ideas. More importantly, it helps you link static concepts with current issues, enrich your answer writing, and build a strong foundation for scoring better in both Prelims and Mains.

Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that teaches self-discipline, non-violence, and liberation through the conquest of inner passions. Here are the main features:

• Founder Figures: Based on the teachings of 24 Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers), the last was Vardhamana Mahavira (6th century BCE).
• Meaning of Jain: Derived from Jina, meaning “conqueror of inner passions”.
• View on God: Rejects the idea of a creator god; the universe is eternal.
• Soul (Jiva): Every soul has the potential for moksha (liberation) by shedding accumulated karma.

Core Principles:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence) – central to all aspects of life.
• Ascetic discipline – strict self-control and detachment from materialism.

Triratna (Three Jewels):

• Right Faith (Samyak Darshan)
• Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnana)
• Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra)

Philosophical Doctrines:

• Anekantavada – reality is many-sided, no single viewpoint is complete.
• Syadvada – truth is conditional and must be expressed with caution (maybe / perhaps).

The history of Jainism is based on the lives and teachings of 24 spiritual teachers known as Tirthankaras. They guided people on how to overcome worldly life and attain liberation. Here are the most important ones for you to remember: 

1. First Tirthankara - Rishabhanath (Adinath):

• Regarded as the actual founder of Jainism and the first spiritual teacher.
• Believed to have lived millions of years ago according to Jain cosmology.
• Established fundamental principles of non-violence and spiritual purification.
• Considered the originator of civilised society, teaching agriculture, crafts, and social organisation.
• Achieved Kevala Jnana (omniscience) after intense spiritual practices.

2. Twenty-third Tirthankara - Parshvanath:

• Lived in Benaras around the 8th-7th century BCE.
• Son of King Ashwasena of Kashi, he renounced worldly life at age thirty.
• Advocated four fundamental vows: non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, and non-possession.

3. Twenty-fourth Tirthankara - Vardhaman Mahavira:

• Born around 599 BCE in Kundagrama, modern-day Bihar.
• Contemporary of Gautama Buddha, he belonged to the Kshatriya royal family.
• Renounced worldly life at age thirty, achieved Kevala Jnana after twelve years of penance.
• Added the fifth vow of celibacy (Brahmacharya) to Parshvanath's four principles.
• Preached in simple Prakrit language, making teachings accessible to common people.

Also read: Buddhism Notes for UPSC: Origins, Teachings & Historical Impact

Jain philosophy teaches spiritual ideas that help people break free from the cycle of birth and death by living ethically and realising their true selves.

Five Main Vows (Pancha Mahavratas) of Jainism:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): Supreme principle forbidding harm to any living being, including microscopic organisms.
• Satya (Truthfulness): Commitment to speaking truth in thought, word, and action.
• Asteya (Non-stealing): Abstaining from taking anything not freely given by others.
• Aparigraha (Non-possession): Renouncing attachment to possessions and wealth.
• Brahmacharya (Celibacy): Maintaining purity in conduct and relationships.

Also read: Top 10 Historical Movements in Modern Indian History for UPSC.

In Jainism, eight sacred symbols called Ashtamangala hold deep spiritual meaning and are an important part of religious practices and temple designs.

1. Swastika: Represents four destinies of existence - humans, heavenly beings, hellish beings, and other living creatures.
2. Shrivatsa: Beautiful mark on Tirthankara's chest symbolising knowledge and universal love.
3. Nandyavart: Complex nine-cornered swastika representing nine types of spiritual and material wealth.
4. Vardhamanaka: Shallow earthen lamp dish symbolising increase of wealth, fame, and spiritual merit.
5. Bhadrasana: Sacred throne sanctified by the feet of enlightened Tirthankaras.
6. Kalash: Holy pitcher filled with pure water representing wisdom, abundance, and auspiciousness.
7. Minyugal: A Pair of fish symbolising conquest over desires and fearlessness in the spiritual journey.
8. Darpan: Mirror reflecting the true self and symbolising clarity of spiritual perception.

Jainism explains five types of knowledge, each higher than the other, which guide a person step by step toward complete wisdom (kevala jnana) and liberation.

Classification of Knowledge in Jain Philosophy:

1. Mati Jnana (Sensory Knowledge): Direct knowledge obtained through the five physical senses and the mind.
2. Shruta Jnana (Scriptural Knowledge): Indirect knowledge acquired through the study of sacred texts and teachings.
3. Avadhi Jnana (Clairvoyance): Supernatural perception allowing knowledge of distant objects and events.
4. Manahparyaya Jnana (Telepathy): Direct knowledge of others' thoughts and mental states.
5. Kevala Jnana (Omniscience): Perfect, complete knowledge of all substances and their modifications across time.

The core of Jainism is based on the Triratnas, or Three Jewels, which together lead the soul to moksha (liberation).

1. Samyak Darshan (Right Faith): Correct belief in fundamental Jain principles and Tirthankara teachings.
2. Samyak Jnana (Right Knowledge): True understanding of reality, soul nature, and cosmic principles.
3. Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct): Ethical behaviour following the five main vows and moral guidelines.

After Mahavira’s death, Jainism split into two main sects because of historical events and differences in beliefs, leading to separate traditions within the religion.

1. Svetambara Sub-Sects:

• Murtipujaka (Deravasi): Worship idols in temples; monks don't wear mouth-covering.
• Sthanakavasi: Worship saints instead of idols; monks wear muhapatti (mouth-covering).
• Terapanthi: Similar to Sthanakavasi; worship saints; monks wear muhapatti.

2. Digambara Sub-Sects:

• Mula Sangh: Original community maintaining traditional practices.
• Bispanthi: Modern community with some modified practices.
• Terapanthi: Reformed group focusing on scriptural worship.
• Taranpanthi: Another modern sub-sect with specific interpretations.

Jainism drew people from many social groups, leading to a strong community across regions and professions.

• Chandragupta Maurya: Became a Jain ascetic in later years, promoted religion in South India.
• King Kharavela: The Kalinga ruler provided significant support to Jain institutions.
• Udayin: Successor of Ajatashatru, devoted follower according to Jain tradition.
• Trading Communities: Merchants and businessmen embraced Jainism due to its acceptance of commercial activities.
• Urban Populations: City dwellers found Jain teachings more relevant than complex Vedic rituals.
• Artisan Classes: Craftsmen and skilled workers appreciated practical, ethical guidelines.

Jain scriptures were compiled in two major councils. These councils helped resolve differences in teachings and preserved the authentic texts during Jainism’s growth. 

Jain literature is an important source for understanding Jain philosophy, spiritual practices, and cultural history. It also shaped the development of many Indian languages.

Language:

• Most early Jain texts were written in Ardhamagadhi Prakrit.
• The 12 Angas (e.g., Acaranga Sutra, Bhagavati Sutra) are the core canonical texts.

Compilation of Scriptures:

• Finalised at the Council of Vallabhi (5th–6th century CE) under Devardhi Kshamashramana.

Major Works:

• Kalpasutra – by Bhadrabahu, contains the life story of Mahavira.
• Bhadrabahu-Charita – by Ratnanandi.
• Parisista-Parvan – by Hemachandra.

Literary Contributions:

• Scriptures, philosophical treatises, and Puranas (e.g., Haribhadra’s works).
• Extensive commentaries explaining doctrines.
• Grammars and lexicons of Prakrit and Apabhramsha, preserving language traditions.

Here are the key factors that helped Jainism spread:

• Mahavira's Personal Efforts: Extensive preaching tours across North India.
• Monastic Networks: Eleven Ganadharas (chief disciples) established centres in various regions.
• Royal Support: Patronage from rulers like Chandragupta Maurya and regional kings.
• Migration Movements: Famine-induced movement to South India spread religion.
• Trade Networks: Merchant communities carried religious practices to new areas.

Regional Expansion Patterns:

• South India: Bhadrabahu's migration with Chandragupta Maurya to Karnataka.
• Western India: Strong presence in Gujarat and Rajasthan through trading communities.
• Central India: Important centres established in Mathura and Ujjain.
• Eastern Regions: Initial stronghold in Magadha and the Bihar areas.

Jain architecture shows deep religious devotion, artistic skill, and technical expertise, creating some of India’s most beautiful and detailed temples.

• Intricate Marble Carving: Exceptional detail in sculptural decoration and ornamental patterns.
• Multiple Pillared Halls: Complex interior spaces with elaborately carved upporting columns.
• Temple Cities: Hill-top complexes like Dilwara and Palitana create sacred landscapes.

Famous Architectural Examples:

• Dilwara Temples, Rajasthan
• Palitana, Gujarat
• Ellora Caves, Maharashtra
• Gomateshwara, Karnataka
• Ranakpur Temple

Must read: Nagara Style Temple Architecture and Its Features

Jainism gradually declined over time due to several reasons that lessened its popularity and weakened its institutions.

• Lack of Royal Patronage: Reduced support from rulers who favoured Buddhism or Hinduism.
• Severity of Religious Practices: Extreme asceticism and rigid ethical demands alienated common people.
• Unintelligible Philosophy: Complex concepts like the soul in matter proved difficult for the masses to understand.
• Internal Sectarian Divisions: The Digambara-Svetambara split weakened unified religious identity.
• Rise of Buddhism: The Buddhist "middle path" appeared more accessible than the Jain extremes.
• Missionary Decline: Reduced enthusiasm among Jain monks for active propagation.
• Hindu Revival: The Bhakti movement provided simpler devotional alternatives.
• Language Barriers: Continued use of Prakrit while Sanskrit gained scholarly preference.

Despite these challenges, Jainism maintained dedicated communities and continued contributing to Indian culture, particularly in regions like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Karnataka.

Jainism’s lasting influence comes from its focus on non-violence, moral discipline, and spiritual wisdom. Its teachings inspire people to be compassionate, self-controlled, and respectful toward all living beings.

Jainism is a very important UPSC topic; understanding its origins, doctrines, and cultural contributions can significantly boost your Prelims and Mains scores.

Unlock Your UPSC Potential with SuperKalam

SuperKalam is your AI-powered personal mentor, keeping your preparation disciplined, focused, and effective with:

• Instant Mains answer evaluation
• Instant doubt resolution
• Personalised guidance
• Unlimited MCQs and PYQs
• Progress tracking through daily goals, streaks, and leaderboards.

Download the SuperKalam app now and turn your UPSC dream into reality.