In Jain tradition, Bhagwan Rishabhdev (Ādināth) is connected with weapons in a very specific and limited way, and always under the higher principle of ahimsā (non‑violence).

1. “Asi” – Weapons as one basic life‑skill

When Rishabhdev was king, the world was changing from a time of natural abundance to a time where people had to work and protect themselves. Jain texts describe that he taught six main types of skills:

1. Asi – use of weapons / art of protection
2. Masi – writing
3. Krishi – agriculture
4. Vidya – education/knowledge
5. Vanijya – trade and commerce
6. Shilp – crafts and arts ( en.wikipedia.org)

Here “Asi” does not mean violence, but:

• protecting citizens from wild animals and attackers
• maintaining order and safety in society
• creating the basic rule that force is a last resort, not a tool for greed or anger

So, Rishabhdev is shown as a culture‑giver, not as a warrior.

You can read a simple explanation of these skills here

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2. From outer weapons to inner protection

After some time, Rishabhdev renounced his kingdom, became a Tirthankar, and taught the pure path of Ahimsā, Aparigraha and Samyaktva.

From the spiritual side, his “teaching about safeguarding ourselves” is mainly:

• Real protection is from karmas, not from enemies.
• The true “weapons” for a Jain are:

- Samyak Darshan – right faith - Samyak Jnān – right knowledge - Samyak Chāritra – right conduct

• Anger, pride, deceit, greed – these are the real dangers;

forgiveness, humility, honesty, non‑possessiveness are the real shields.

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3. How to understand weapons today, as per Jain dharma

Putting it simply:

1. Violence for attack, revenge, show of power – is against Rishabhdev’s dharma.
2. Limited physical protection (like self‑defense, protection of the weak) is allowed only with minimal harm, and only when no peaceful way is left.
3. Even then:

- no hatred in the heart - no cruelty or enjoyment in causing pain - always pray to reduce violence as much as possible

So, in Jain view, Rishabhdev’s “Asi” is a practical social skill for protection, but his real message is:

> Protect yourself mainly by purifying your soul, > not by increasing weapons.