Item 3 in Jain Twelve Lay Vows

Limited Non-Stealing

Do not take what is not given and avoid dishonest acquisition.

Position
3
Form
Prohibition
Obligation
Strong duty
Wording status
Editorial paraphrase
Intended audience
Jain lay followers
Last reviewed
28 June 2026

Names and terminology

Canonical name: Limited Non-Stealing

Original term: Asteya Anuvrata

Source wording

Editorial paraphrase: Do not take what is not given and avoid dishonest acquisition.

Editorial paraphrase

Literal meaning

Do not take what is not given and avoid dishonest acquisition.

Broader interpretation

This item should be interpreted within the historical purpose, intended audience and wider structure of its parent ethical framework.

Historical context

This item belongs to Jain Twelve Lay Vows. Ancient and classical Jain tradition; Indian subcontinent.

Practical meaning

Practical application requires attention to intention, consent, evidence, rights, foreseeable effects and the needs of all persons or beings affected.

Ethical purpose

To shape conduct, judgment or character in a way consistent with the wider framework.

Exceptions and disputes

Application may become difficult when duties conflict, consequences are uncertain, harm is indirect or historical assumptions no longer fit modern conditions.

Variations across schools or traditions

Wording and interpretation may vary between translations, denominations, schools and historical periods.

Modern application

Modern application should distinguish the historical formulation from present legal, social and ethical conditions.

Criticism and difficult cases

Application may become difficult when duties conflict, consequences are uncertain, harm is indirect or historical assumptions no longer fit modern conditions.

Truth By Reason analysis

Truth By Reason assesses this principle through evidence, intentions, rights, foreseeable consequences, consistency and the treatment of all affected beings.

Ethical themes

  • Property
  • Justice
  • Non-stealing

Sources