Here are the core Jain teachings from the Agamas that apply to trade, taxation, contracts, wealth, and ethics, kept simple and true to Jain doctrine:
- Business should avoid harming any living beings in production, sourcing, or processes. Violence is not only physical but also present in exploitative practices.
- Always speak and act truthfully in pricing, advertising, contracts, and claims. Do not misrepresent products, quality, or origin.
- Do not take what is not freely given or fairly earned. Be transparent in pricing, avoid hidden charges, and honor all contractual obligations.
- Aparigraha (non-attachment to wealth)
- Limit greed and accumulation. Earn wealth ethically and use it for welfare, without ostentation or waste. Wealth should support right livelihood, family duties, and charitable acts.
- Samyak Ajiva (right livelihood)
- Choose professions that do not cause harm; avoid occupations involving violence or exploitation (the Agamas discourage trades like weapons, meat, honey, intoxicants, etc.). Earn honestly and without deceit.
- Ethics of contracts and dealings (Achar)
- Contracts should be fair and voluntary; honor commitments, resolve disputes peacefully, and treat workers and customers with respect.
- Wealth is a tool; use it to support dharma, family duties, community welfare, and charitable acts (daan). Avoid miserliness and waste.
- Taxation and public responsibility
- Pay taxes honestly and promptly; do not evade or manipulate tax obligations. Wealth earned should be used in ways that do not harm others.
Notes on tradition
- These principles are taught across Jain Āgamas and later Jain ethical literature. The emphasis is on non-violence, truthfulness, self-control, and restraint in wealth, with right livelihood as a guiding frame for laypeople and merchants.
- Differences between Digambara and Śvētāmbara readings exist on certain textual details, but the main ethical thrust—non-harming, honesty, non-attachment, fair dealing, and responsible use of wealth—remains common to both.
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