According to Jainism, Lord Krishna is considered a historical figure and is mentioned in Jain texts, particularly in the context of the Jain universal history. Jain scriptures such as the "Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Charitra" describe Krishna as one of the 63 illustrious beings (Shalaka Purushas). According to Jain tradition, Krishna was a Vasudeva, a great heroic person, but he was involved in violence, including the killing of Jarasandha and Shishupala, and participation in the Mahabharata war.

Due to these acts of violence, Jain texts state that Krishna accumulated negative karma. As a result, after his death, he is believed to have been reborn in one of the hells (Naraka) according to Jain cosmology, where souls experience the consequences of their harmful actions. However, Jainism also teaches that after experiencing the results of his karma in hell, Krishna's soul will eventually have the opportunity to be reborn in better conditions and can ultimately attain liberation (moksha).

This view is specific to Jain philosophy and cosmology, and differs from the perspectives held in other Indian religions such as Hinduism.