Does a Jain have to have children?
In Jainism, there is no strict religious requirement for a person to have children. The choice to have children is considered a personal and family matter rather than a religious obligation. Jain philosophy emphasizes individual spiritual development and adherence to the principles of non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy or chastity (brahmacharya), and non-possessiveness (aparigraha).
For householders (śrāvakas and śrāvikās), marriage and family life are accepted, and raising children can be seen as part of fulfilling one’s worldly duties (gṛhastha dharma) while practicing Jain values. However, renunciants (monks and nuns) take vows of celibacy and do not have children.
Ultimately, whether or not to have children is up to the individual and their family, as long as their decisions align with the core principles of Jain ethical conduct.