Here is a simple outline of the lifestyle guidance for a Jain Shravak (lay follower):
- Core vows (Anuvratas for Shravaks)
- Ahimsa: practice non-violence in thoughts, words, and actions; minimize harm to all living beings (including insects and microbes).
- Satya: speak truth with kindness and in non-hurtful ways.
- Asteya: do not steal; respect others’ property and rights.
- Brahmacharya: sexual restraint appropriate to a household life (fidelity within marriage; avoid exploitative behavior).
- Aparigraha: limit possessions and avoid hoarding; cultivate contentment and generosity.
- Daily/spiritual practices
- Samayik: 24-minute period of focused meditation and equanimity.
- Pratikraman: reflective confession and seeking forgiveness for mistakes and misdeeds.
- Puja/Devotional recall: reverence for Mahavira and other Tirthankaras, and mindful living.
- Fast or partial fasting (upvas) during auspicious periods or to purify conduct.
- Diet and everyday conduct
- Vegetarian diet as a baseline; many Jains also avoid root vegetables (like onion, garlic, potatoes) and sometimes mushrooms or fungi, depending on tradition.
- Eat with moderation; avoid waste; do not harm or waste any life while cooking and eating.
- Simple living: minimal possessions, ethical consumption, and charitable giving (dāna).
- Social and community life
- Participate in sangh (group/community) activities, temple visits, and study of Jain scriptures.
- Observe major Jain periods and festivals (e.g., Paryushan, Mahavir Jayanti) with reflection, fasting, and community service.
- Educate and guide family members, especially children, in Jain ethics and values.
- Vivek (detached discernment): seek truth while avoiding rigid dogma; practice anekantavada (many-sided truth) in daily judgments.
- Compassion for all beings: reduce harm in all spheres, including environment, animals, and plants.
If you’d like, I can point you to specific Jain Knowledge pages that explain these practices in detail for lay followers. You can read more here
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