Item 7 in Jain Ten Supreme Virtues
Supreme austerity
Use disciplined simplicity for ethical and spiritual development rather than self-harm.
- Position
- 7
- Form
- Mixed formulation
- Obligation
- Context-dependent
- Wording status
- Translation
- Intended audience
- Especially Digambara Jains, with broader Jain ethical relevance
- Last reviewed
- 28 June 2026
Names and terminology
Canonical name: Supreme austerity
Source wording
Use disciplined simplicity for ethical and spiritual development rather than self-harm.
Broader interpretation
Use disciplined simplicity for ethical and spiritual development rather than self-harm.
Practical meaning
Use disciplined simplicity for ethical and spiritual development rather than self-harm.
Ethical purpose
This principle is intended to guide conduct, character and relationships in accordance with the parent framework.
Variations across schools or traditions
Interpretation and application may vary across communities, translations and individual circumstances.
Criticism and difficult cases
This principle should be applied with attention to evidence, consent, equality, power, foreseeable harm and realistic alternatives.
Truth By Reason analysis
Use disciplined simplicity for ethical and spiritual development rather than self-harm. Its ethical force depends on whether its application reduces avoidable harm and respects equal human dignity.
Ethical themes
Sources
- Das Lakshan — Festival of the Ten Virtues Mainstream secondary source