In Jain Dharma, leather is generally seen as against the spirit of ahimsā (non‑violence), because:

• Leather comes from the skin of animals who are killed.
• Killing or supporting killing for our comfort, fashion, or luxury is clear hiṁsā (violence).
• Even if we are not directly killing, buying leather supports that himsā.

1. For monks and nuns (sādhus, sādhvīs)

• They must follow complete ahimsā.
• They do not use leather articles.
• Their life is based on total renunciation of such materials.

This is true in both Śvetāmbara and Digambara traditions.

2. For householders (śrāvaks, śrāvikās)

Classical Jain conduct books teach:

• Avoid leather as far as possible.
• Especially avoid it for luxury or decoration (like tiger skin, deer skin, fancy leather items).
• If in old times something was unavoidable (e.g. shoes, straps), some authors allowed only leather from naturally dead animals, not from slaughtered animals.

But in today’s world, almost all commercial leather comes from slaughterhouses, so practically: - A sincere Jain is encouraged to completely avoid leather. - Use alternatives: cloth, synthetic, plant‑based materials, etc.

3. Leather and temple / religious use

• Traditionally, Jains are told not to wear leather belts, leather purses, or leather shoes into the temple.
• Going near the idol with products made from killing animals goes against bhakti and ahimsā.

4. Overall Jain view in simple words

• Ahimsā is the highest dharma.
• Anything made by killing animals for our comfort or fashion is to be avoided.
• So, from a Jain point of view, using leather is spiritually harmful and a serious pāp (sin), especially when good non‑violent options exist.

So, the clear Jain direction is: Avoid leather as much as you can; choose ahimsā‑based alternatives.