The lifestyle of Jain monks (also called sadhus for males and sadhvis for females) is based on the principles of extreme non-violence (ahimsa), renunciation, and self-discipline. Their daily life and conduct are guided by the "Five Great Vows" (Mahavratas):

1. Ahimsa (Non-violence): Jain monks and nuns take the vow to avoid causing harm to any living being, even the smallest forms of life such as insects and microorganisms. They walk barefoot, sweep the path before them with a broom (called "Ogho" or "Rajoharan"), and filter water to avoid harming tiny creatures.

1. Satya (Truthfulness): They commit to always speak the truth, but only if it does not cause harm to any living being.

1. Asteya (Non-stealing): They vow not to take anything that is not willingly given.

1. Brahmacharya (Celibacy): Complete celibacy, both in thought and action, is observed.

1. Aparigraha (Non-possession/Non-attachment): Jain monks renounce all worldly possessions, including money, property, and even personal relationships. They usually have only a few necessary items—an alms bowl, a broom, and sometimes scriptures.

Daily Routine and Practices:

• Alms: Monks and nuns do not cook or store food. They go for alms (known as "Gochari"), accepting only pure vegetarian food that is offered voluntarily by lay followers.
• Meditation and Study: A significant part of their day is spent in meditation, self-study (svadhyaya), and scriptural discussions.
• Travel: Jain monks are typically wandering ascetics, traveling from place to place on foot, except during the monsoon season (Chaturmas), when they stay in one place to avoid harming the increased number of living beings during the rains.
• Interaction: They avoid all attachments and maintain minimal contact with laypeople, interacting only for religious purposes or receiving alms.
• Practice of Forgiveness: Regular practice of forgiveness (Kshamapana), especially during Paryushan and Samvatsari, is central to their spiritual discipline.

Appearance and Conduct:

• Attire: Digambara monks practice nudity as a symbol of total renunciation, while Śvētāmbara monks and nuns wear simple white clothes.
• Speech: They avoid gossip, lies, harsh words, and unnecessary speech.
• Self-restraint: Practice strict discipline over senses, urges, and emotions.

The ultimate aim of a Jain monk’s lifestyle is to purify the soul, eliminate karma, and progress towards liberation (moksha).