Here is a simple, authentic outline of the five major vows (Mahavratas for ascetics and their lay equivalents, the Anuvratas) in Jain Dharma, with brief meanings.

1) Ahimsa — Non-violence

• What it means: Do not harm any living being in thought, word, or deed. Practice kindness and compassion; minimize injury to all beings.
• For laypeople: Choose a vegetarian diet, avoid harming insects unnecessarily, and act with gentleness in daily life.

2) Satya — Truth

• What it means: Speak only truth that does not cause harm; be honest in intentions and speech.
• For laypeople: Speak truth with tact and compassion, avoiding deceit that harms others or yourself.

3) Asteya — Non-stealing

• What it means: Do not take anything that is not freely given.
• For laypeople: Respect others’ property, return what you borrow, and avoid taking advantage of others’ work or time.

4) Brahmacharya — Celibacy (or, for laypeople, sexual and sense restraint)

• What it means: Preserve sexual energy and practice self-control.
• For ascetics: Complete celibacy.
• For laypeople: Channel desires, practise fidelity in marriage, and exercise control over sensual pleasures.

5) Aparigraha — Non-attachment (non-possession)

• What it means: Limit possessions and attachments; cultivate contentment and simplicity.
• For laypeople: Avoid greed and hoarding; reduce unnecessary belongings; share and use resources wisely.

Notes on differences

• Digambar and Śvetamar traditions agree on the five core virtues, but they emphasize their application a bit differently.
• Ascetics (monks and nuns) observe the Mahavratas in their most strict form.
• Householders (lay Jain followers) observe the five Anuvratas as practical, moderated vows appropriate to daily life: Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya (fidelity and restraint, not reckless pursuit of pleasure), and Aparigraha (careful ownership and contentment).

If you’d like, I can provide the original doctrinal wording for each vow and explain any nuances taught in Digambara vs. Śvetāmbara sources.