In Jain Dharma, the word “Jain” (जैन) comes from the Sanskrit word “Jina” (जिन) and the root “ji”, which means “to conquer”.

• Jina = “Conqueror” – one who has conquered inner enemies like anger, pride, deceit, greed and has become perfectly pure (Kevali).
• Jain / Jaina = “Follower of the Jinas”, i.e. a follower of the path shown by the Tirthankars.

Who gave the name “Jain”?

From the traditional Jain view, this word is not credited to one single human being. It naturally arose from:

• the title “Jina” used for Tirthankars, and
• their followers being called “Jaina” (those belonging to or following the Jina).

In very early times, Jains were also known as “Nirgrantha” (निर्ग्रन्थ – bondless, free from worldly knots). Later, the term “Jaina / Jain” became the common name for followers of this dharma. But no Jain scripture or tradition clearly says “this particular person first used the word Jain”.

Digambar–Shwetambar difference

On this point there is no real difference between Digambar and Shwetambar traditions:

• Both accept that “Jain/Jaina” = follower of Jina.
• Both link it to the same Sanskrit root “ji” (to conquer).

You can read a simple explanation of the word “Jainam / Jaina” here: