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The Five Fundamental Vows (Vratas)
The Five Fundamental Vows (Vratas) in Jainism are:
- Ahimsa β Non-violence
Not causing harm to any living being by thought, word, or deed.
- Satya β Truth
Speaking only what is true, beneficial, and gentle.
- Asteya β Non-stealing
Not taking anything that is not willingly given.
- Brahmacharya β Chastity / Celibacy
Control of sensual desires; for monks and nuns, complete celibacy.
- Aparigraha β Non-possession / Non-attachment
Limiting possessions and reducing attachment to material things and desires.
In Jain tradition, these vows are the foundation of right conduct. For Shvetambar and Digambar ascetics, the vows are understood with the same core spirit, though the details of observance may differ by tradition.
For householders, these are followed in a limited form as Anuvratas; for monks and nuns, they are followed in a complete form as Mahavratas.
If you want, I can also give the Sanskrit names and simple meaning of each vow.
