Which are the main teachings of Jain philosophy?

The word Jain is derived from the word ‘Jin’ that means victory- in essence referring to the spiritual win of man over worldly illusion and senses to provide salvation.
Jainism illustrates the following teachings:

(i) Triratnas:
These refer to the three measures of salvation mentioned by Mahavira to ensure salvation. These are
a. Right Knowledge: awareness of true and complete knowledge from learning and following the teachings of the Tirthankaras.

b. Right Belief: The complete belief and faith in the teachings and guidance of the Tirthankaras to attain true salvation.

c. Right Character: maintaining a pious, clean and controlled sense of self integral to practise Jainism.

(ii) Five Mahavratas:

The five main principles are given by Mahavira which aid in the attainment of salvation. These are
a. Ahimsa: the feeling of kindness, benevolence and equality towards mankind and not thinking or feeling any harm towards others.

b. Satya (truth): Speaking the truth and ahimsa go hand in hand, which is also emphasised on the truthfulness in expression.

c. Asteya: refers to not committing theft, which is seen as an immoral sin.

d. Aparigraha: refers to not possessing worldly belongings, which can cause men to be stuck to the world’s illusion, and to possess only as much as is essential.

e. Brahmacharya: refers to remaining celibate to keep self from the vices of the world.

(iii) Reason for happiness and sorrows:

All reason for sorrow is man himself. To keep self away from the world’s sorrows, he should engage in the afore-mentioned practices that will aid in conquering over the world’s illusion.

(iv) Penance and Worship:

To gain control over the soul of man, Mahavira emphasised upon penance and meditation to overcome the world’s illusion. There are two kinds of penance- internal and external. Internal comes from practising politeness, service and self-study, attained through means of external penance (majorly through fasting).

(v) Immortality of the Soul:

Mahavira believed in the immortality of the soul that came from the cycle of rebirth based upon the karmic deeds of a person. The soul is immortal and imperishable and can be freed from the constant cycle of rebirth through distancing self from worldly illusion.

(vi) Renunciation:

Jainism is based heavily on the principle of renunciation of worldly possessions and through strict penance to attain salvation.

(vii) Siavad:

The principle of looking at events with multiple perspectives or many sightedness aids in the coordination of thoughts and ensures the welfare of others. This prevents conflicts and tensions among people.

Thus, Jainism is based upon the afore-mentioned strict principles that seek to aid man in attaining salvation and breaking away from the chains of rebirth.