Answer

A Jain should especially read books that strengthen Samyag Darshan (right faith), Samyag Jnan (right knowledge), and Samyag Charitra (right conduct).

If choosing only a few, these are very important:

• Tattvartha Sutra – a foundational Jain text explaining core Jain philosophy.
• Uttaradhyayana Sutra – contains deep teachings on conduct, renunciation, discipline, and spiritual wisdom.
• Samaysar by Acharya Kundkund – especially respected in Digambar tradition for understanding the nature of the soul.
• Ratnakaranda Shravakachar by Acharya Samantabhadra – important for understanding the duties of a Jain householder.
• Atmasiddhi Shastra by Shrimad Rajchandra – a clear and devotional text on the soul and liberation.

Explanation

If you are a beginner, start with a simple explanation of:

• Nav Tattva – the nine fundamental truths
• Six Dravyas – the six substances
• Five Vows – Ahimsa, Satya, Achaurya, Brahmacharya, Aparigraha
• Karma theory – how bondage and liberation happen
• Life of Tirthankars – especially Bhagwan Mahavir

After that, reading texts like Tattvartha Sutra becomes much easier and more meaningful.

Spiritual Understanding

The purpose of reading Jain books is not only information. It is inner transformation.

A good Jain text should help us:

• Reduce attachment and anger
• Increase compassion and non-violence
• Understand the soul
• Live with discipline and awareness
• Move closer to moksha marg

Takeaway

If you ask for one book every Jain must study, choose Tattvartha Sutra. If you are a beginner, first learn Nav Tattva and basic Jain principles, then read deeper scriptures with guidance from a knowledgeable teacher.