In Jainism, ahimsa (non-violence) is the highest principle, but how it applies in daily life depends on one’s vows and situation.

• Sweeping while walking: This is a practical precaution to minimize harming tiny beings that we might step on, especially on bare ground or temple floors. It reflects a strong intention to prevent harm in the immediate path one walks.

• Driving a car: Cars do kill insects and other beings, sometimes unintentionally. Jains acknowledge that in modern life, some harm is hard to avoid entirely. The aim is to minimize harm as much as possible and to cultivate right intention and care. Some ways lay Jains try to reduce harm when driving include:

- driving slowly and carefully to avoid hitting creatures - keeping windows closed or using screens to prevent insects from entering - checking under the vehicle and around before moving - choosing routes and times that reduce harm when feasible

Key point: ahimsa is about both action and intention. A layperson’s life involves balancing practical living with a sincere effort to minimize harm. If harm occurs, one practices remorse (pratikramana, confession) and resolves to do better, rather than using harm as an excuse to abandon the vow.

There are differences in emphasis between Digambar and Shwetambar traditions on certain details, but both traditions teach that the strive for non-violence should guide daily conduct, and any unavoidable harm should be met with reflection and corrective effort.

If you’d like, I can point to Jain Knowledge pages that discuss ahimsa, lay vows, and practical conduct in daily life. You can read more here