In Jain Dharma, untouchability (as a feeling of “high” and “low” between humans) has no place in the true spiritual teachings.

Key points:

1. All souls are equal in their true nature

- Jain philosophy says every jiva (soul) is inherently pure, with the same capacity for moksha (liberation). - Differences of caste, birth, color, gender, wealth, etc. are due to karma, not because one soul is “higher” and another is “lower”. - To hate, insult or avoid someone as “untouchable” is himsa (violence) of bhava (inner attitude).

1. Ahimsa opposes untouchability

- Ahimsa is not only “don’t kill”; it is also “don’t hurt the feelings and dignity of any living being”. - To consider someone impure by birth, to avoid their touch, or to deny them temple entry purely due to caste is violence of mind and speech, and therefore against Jain ethics.

1. Difference between “ritual impurity” and caste untouchability

- Jain texts do talk about shauch and ashauch (cleanliness/impurity) in practical matters: - e.g. after childbirth, during illness, during menstruation, after a death in the family, people may observe temporary rules of distance or extra cleanliness. - This is temporary and based on physical or ritual purity, not on hatred or birth-based contempt. - Caste-based permanent untouchability (calling a whole group “low”, refusing to eat with them or allow them into temples just because of their birth) is not spiritually justified.

1. Historical reality vs. ideal teaching

- Like many communities in India, some Jain societies did adopt caste and forms of untouchability under social influence. - However, many Jain Acharyas, scholars and reformers have clearly said that such practices contradict Mahavira’s message and should be removed. - The ideal Jain view, based on the soul and karma, does not support any permanent, birth-based untouchability.

1. Digambar and Shvetambar

- Both major traditions accept the same basic principles: - All souls are equal. - Ahimsa and maitri (friendliness) must be extended to all. - Any differences between sects are about conduct, vows, rituals, dress of monks, etc., not about creating “untouchable” humans.

In simple words: According to Jain Dharma, no human should be treated as “untouchable” or “low” by birth. Such a mindset is against ahimsa, against equality of souls, and against the spirit of Bhagwan Mahavira’s teachings.