Jains traditionally avoid farming primarily due to the principle of ahimsa (non-violence), which is the central tenet of Jainism. Farming often involves tilling the soil, which can harm or destroy countless small living organisms such as insects, worms, and microorganisms that live in the earth. According to Jain beliefs, causing harm to any living being, no matter how small, accrues negative karma.

Additionally, the use of water, pesticides, and fertilizers in farming can also result in the death of many tiny life forms. To minimize violence and uphold strict non-violence, many Jains historically chose professions that do not directly involve harm to living beings, such as trade, business, or scholarship.

While not all Jains avoid farming today, the traditional avoidance is rooted in the desire to live with the least possible harm to all forms of life, in accordance with Jain ethical principles.