Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that teaches the path to spiritual purity and enlightenment through disciplined nonviolence (ahimsa), self-control, and truthfulness. It emphasizes the liberation of the soul from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) by following the three jewels (Ratnatraya): right faith (Samyak Darshana), right knowledge (Samyak Jnana), and right conduct (Samyak Charitra).

Jainism was established by a lineage of 24 Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers), with Lord Mahavira being the last and most recent Tirthankara, who lived in the 6th century BCE. Jainism teaches principles such as:

• Ahimsa (nonviolence) towards all living beings
• Aparigraha (non-possessiveness)
• Satya (truthfulness)
• Asteya (non-stealing)
• Brahmacharya (celibacy or chastity)

Followers of Jainism seek to conquer their own inner passions and attain liberation (moksha) by practicing ethical living, meditation, and strict vegetarianism. Jain temples, scriptures (such as Agamas), and festivals (like Paryushan and Mahavir Jayanti) are important elements of Jain culture and practice.