In Jainism, ahimsa (non-violence) is the highest principle. The tradition teaches that violence should be avoided in all circumstances as far as possible, because every act of violence harms the soul and disturbs karmic balance.

Regarding self-defense:

• Jain teachings emphasize causing as little harm as possible. If there is no alternative, a person may be compelled to defend life or prevent grave harm, but this is still viewed as an act of unavoidable violence rather than a celebration of violence.
• The aim is to minimize harm and to repent for the unavoidable violence that occurs.
• Both Digambar and Shwetambar traditions affirm non-violence as the ideal, and any defensive action is understood within the context of extreme necessity, not as a moral endorsement of violence.

If you’d like, I can share specific passages or the exact meanings from Jain sutras that discuss self-defence and unavoidable violence, along with how Digambar and Shwetambar interpretations may differ. You can read more on this topic here