In Jain traditions, “study” (śruta‑adhyayana) refers to the disciplined engagement with scriptures, commentariesDraft overviewCommentariesIn Jainism, “commentaries” (often termed **ṭīkā**, **vṛtti**, **bhāṣya**, **vārttika**, or **niryukti**) are systematic explanations of earlier authoritative texts, especially sūtras and āgamas. They form a crucial bridg…, and ethical teachings as a core component of right knowledgeDraft overviewRight knowledgeRight Knowledge (samyag‑jñāna) is one of the three jewels (ratnatraya) of Jainism, alongside Right Faith (samyag‑darśana) and Right Conduct (samyak‑cāritra). Together, these form the essential path to liberation (mokṣa) … (samyag‑jñāna). Across Digambara and Śvetāmbara lineages, study is treated not merely as intellectual activity but as a moral and spiritual practice that shapes perception, conduct, and karmic refinement. Jain texts consistently pair study with listening (śruta), reflection (bhāvanā), and conduct (cāritra), emphasizing that scriptural learning must be integrated with lived restraint.
Classical sources describe study as one of the essential duties of both monastics and laypeople. For monastics, it supports the maintenance of doctrinal accuracy, ethical vigilanceDraft overviewVigilanceIn Jain philosophical and ethical literature, **vigilance** is a central discipline that supports non‑violence, self‑restraint, and the gradual refinement of consciousness. The term is often expressed through Sanskrit an…, and meditative clarity. For laypeople, it provides grounding in vows, rituals, and moral reasoning. Study is also linked to the cultivation of humilityDraft overviewHumilityIn Jain thought, humility (*vinaya*, *nivvatta*, *mārdava*) is a foundational ethical disposition that shapes how one perceives oneself, others, and the broader moral universe. It is not merely modesty or politeness; it …, because scriptural knowledge is considered vast, layered, and requiring lifelong engagement.
Jain scholastic traditions developed extensive systems of classification for scriptures, including the Śvetāmbara canon (Āgamas) and Digambara canonical and semi‑canonical works (e.g., Ṣaṭkhaṇḍāgama, Kaṣāyapāhuda). Study practices vary by sect: Mūrtipūjaka Śvetāmbaras emphasize canonical recitationDraft overviewRecitationIn Jain traditions, **recitation** (often expressed through terms such as *paṭhana*, *svādhyāya*, *japa*, and *stavan*) refers to the disciplined vocal or mental repetition of sacred texts, names, mantras, and doctrinal … and commentarial study; Sthānakavāsīs and Terāpanthīs emphasize non‑idolatrous scriptural engagement and ethical reflection; Digambaras emphasize Prakrit and SanskritDraft overviewSanskritSanskrit is an Indo‑Aryan language with a documented history extending more than three millennia, forming one of the principal classical languages of South Asia. Within Jain studies, Sanskrit occupies a dual position: it… treatises and philosophical compendia. Despite differences, all traditions treat study as a means to reduce ignorance (mithyātva), strengthen discernment, and progress through the guṇasthānas.
Modern Jain communities continue to emphasize study through paṭhaśālās, youth classes, adult study circles, and digital resources. Contemporary scholarship highlights how study supports ethical reasoning in areas such as nonviolence, ecology, and interreligious dialogue. While interpretations differ, the shared principle remains: study is a disciplined, compassionate, and reflective engagement with teachings that guide liberation.