In Jainism, marriage is seen as a social and worldly institution for householders (gṛhasth), not a spiritual necessity like vrata or dīkṣā.

Here is a simple overview:

1. Purpose of a Jain marriage

- To live as disciplined householders following Jain values. - To support each other in dharma (ahimsā, satya, brahmacharya, aparigraha, etc.). - To raise children with Jain sanskārs, if there are children. - It is not a path to moksha by itself; it is a support system while living in society.

1. General nature of Jain marriages

- Usually simple and focused on dharmic values, though in practice some families do a lot of show. - No requirement of Vedic fire rituals; Jain marriage is not a “Vedic sacrament.” - Central importance is given to: - Navkār Mantra - Prayers to Tirthankars - Blessings of elders - Monks and nuns (both Digambar and Shvetambar) do not perform marriages; they are renunciates and stay away from social functions.

1. Core principles for husband and wife

- Ahimsā: No physical, verbal, or emotional violence towards each other. - Satya: Truthfulness and honesty in the relationship. - Brahmacharya (for householders): - Faithfulness to one spouse. - Control over sensuality, not excessive indulgence. - Aparigraha: Avoid show-off, greed, and waste in marriage and in daily family life. - Spiritual support: Help each other in pratikraman, paaths, upvās, Paryushan/Daślakṣaṇ, etc.

1. Monogamy and number of marriages

- Jainism supports one spouse at a time (monogamy). - If a spouse dies, remarriage is allowed; but multiple spouses at the same time are against restraint and non‑attachment.

1. Within caste / sect vs inter-caste

- Scripturally, Jain dharma does not command “same caste only.” - Traditionally, families prefer: - within Jain community, - often within same sect (Digambar–Digambar, Shvetambar–Shvetambar), - sometimes within same caste/sub‑community. - This is for easier match of customs (food rules, language, rituals), but it is a social custom, not a strict dharmic rule. - Many modern Jain families accept inter‑caste or inter‑community marriage if both follow Jain values.

1. Jain–non‑Jain marriage

- No explicit ban in Jain scriptures. - Main concern: - Will ahimsā-based lifestyle (pure vegetarian, no alcohol, etc.) be protected? - Will children get Jain values? - Many couples handle this with clear understanding and agreements before marriage.

1. Digambar & Shvetambar – any big difference?

- Both see marriage as a household institution, not a moksha–marg in itself. - Both emphasize the same basics: ahimsā, satya, brahmacharya (limited for grihasth), aparigraha. - Ritual sequence, language of mantras, and local customs can differ, but the essence is the same.

If you want a short essence: A Jain marriage is a simple, dharma‑oriented partnership where two householders promise to live with non‑violence, truth, restraint, and minimal attachment, and to help each other progress spiritually while fulfilling worldly duties.