Answer

In Jain Dharma, 108 is not a “constant” in the mathematical sense, but it is a highly sacred and traditionally significant number.

It is most commonly connected with the 108 virtues of the Pañca-Parameṣṭhī:

• Arihant – 12 qualities
• Siddha – 8 qualities
• Āchārya – 36 qualities
• Upādhyāya – 25 qualities
• Sādhu – 27 qualities

Total: 12 + 8 + 36 + 25 + 27 = 108

Explanation

That is why Jain mālās commonly have 108 beads, and many prayers, mantras, or devotional practices are repeated 108 times.

So, 108 remains constant as a traditional sacred count in many Jain practices, especially because it represents the complete reverence to the Pañca-Parameṣṭhī.

Takeaway

In Jainism, 108 symbolizes the virtues of the supreme spiritual beings, not merely a number.