What are 12 anuvratas ?

In Jainism, the 12 Anuvratas are twelve essential vows (vratas) prescribed for lay followers (śrāvakas and śrāvikās). These are less strict versions of the vows observed by Jain monks and nuns (Mahāvratas). The 12 Anuvratas are divided into three categories:

1. Five Main Vows (Aṇuvratas)

These are the small vows, corresponding to the great vows (Mahāvratas) of ascetics, but with less severity:

1. Ahiṃsā Anuvrata — Limited vow of non-violence
2. Satya Anuvrata — Limited vow of truthfulness
3. Asteya Anuvrata — Limited vow of non-stealing
4. Brahmacharya Anuvrata — Limited vow of celibacy or chastity (faithfulness to one's spouse)
5. Aparigraha Anuvrata — Limited vow of non-possessiveness or non-attachment

2. Three Merit Vows (Guṇa Vratas)

These help to further purify the observance of the main vows:

1. Digvrata — Limiting movement to certain directions or areas
2. Bhogopabhoga Parimana — Limiting the use and enjoyment of consumable and non-consumable things
3. Anartha-danda Vrata — Avoiding purposeless or harmful activities

3. Four Disciplinary Vows (Śikṣā Vratas)

These are for additional discipline and spiritual development:

1. Samayika Vrata — Regular meditation and equanimity (practicing spiritual reflection for a set time daily)
2. Desavakasika Vrata — Limiting activities to a certain space for a limited time
3. Paushadha Vrata — Periodic renunciation, living like a monk/nun for a day or more
4. Atithi Samvibhaga Vrata — Offering food and other necessities to ascetics and the needy

Together, these 12 Anuvratas form the ethical foundation for Jain householders, guiding them towards spiritual progress while living in society.