In Jainism, the rule is not framed as “Is kissing allowed or not?” but as “Does this increase sensual passion or help brahmacharya (celibacy / sexual restraint)?”

So we look at it by life‑stage:

1. For monks and nuns

• Any form of sensual physical contact (including kiss, hug with passion, etc.) is completely forbidden.
• They follow Mahavrata of Brahmacharya – total celibacy in body, speech, and mind.

2. For lay Jains (householders)

The main principle is brahmacharya anuvrat and swadara‑santosh (contentment with one’s own spouse):

• Outside marriage

- Romantic/sexual kissing, touching, hugging with desire is not allowed. - It goes against brahmacharya and swadara‑santosh.

• Within marriage

- Jain shastras don’t list “kissing” by name, but they clearly say: - Sex and related acts should be limited, modest, and mainly for family life (procreation), not for indulgence. - Any act that strongly excites passions or is only for sensual pleasure is discouraged. - So: - A simple, respectful show of affection that does not lead to strong lust may be tolerated at the level of grihastha dharma. - But passionate, lustful kissing as a form of sexual enjoyment is considered against the spirit of brahmacharya, even between husband and wife, because it increases rāga (attachment) and sensuality.

Essence in Jain view

• The question is not “technical permission” but what helps or harms your spiritual progress.
• Anything that:

- inflames desire, - pulls the mind again and again to the body, - and becomes a habit of sensual indulgence, is to be reduced and gradually given up.

So, from a Jain dharmic standpoint:

• Monks/Nuns: Kissing is absolutely not allowed.
• Unmarried people: Romantic kissing is not allowed.
• Married people: Even though some affection naturally exists, Jain dharma advises strong restraint; passionate kissing that feeds lust goes against the ideal of brahmacharya and is best avoided.

You can read more about Jain guidance on sexual life and brahmacharya here: