A clear and fascinating guidance has been given in the
Jain religion regarding the way in which an individual should live. 21
fundamental virtues should be there in the character of an individual
whether it is for the welfare of the individual life, of family life, of
social life, or of the national life. The life should be improved by
righteousness. When we read the description of these virtues. We realize
that the Jain religion has made an attempt to reform and improve every
facet of the life of an individual. Life becomes distorted even if one
facet is not properly disciplined and directed. One should possess some of
1. Gambhir : Possessing a magnanimous,large-hearted and
dignified individuality; not a low and wavering individuality.
2. Rupavan : One must possess a healthy body of right
proportions with perfectly developed limbs.
3. Saumya : Not possessing a frowning face but a face
Parkrifi that is cheerful and happy
4. Lokpriy : Having interest in the service of people;
being honored by people; being popular.
5. Akrur :Not showing cruelty to any one, not being
unkind to any one.
6 Bhiru :Keeping away sins and fearing social censure
and keeping away from social evils.
7. Asath : Being simple, humble and innocent.
8. Sudakshinya: One who helps others; and does some
service for others
9 Lajjalu : One who shows respect to elders and
10 Dayavan : One who is benevolent; one who has cordial
and loving relations with others
11. Madhyasth : One who is impartial.
12. Gunanvragi: One who likes the virtues of others;
one who has regard for the virtuous.
13. Satkathak : One who wins others by his noble and
ideal words and utterances.
14. Supakshyukt: One who has devotion and reverence for
15. Sudirgadrista: One who takes his step after
thinking of the future.
16. Visheshajna : One who examines and views an object
from many points of view.
17. Vriddhanug : One who follows the path shown by the
enlightened ones and by great men.
18. Vinit : One who possesses politeness, humility and
19. Kritajna : One who is always grateful to
benefactors and shows them regard.
20. Parahita-rat: One who works for the good and
welfare of others.
21. Labdhiakshya: One who always pursues the objective
that has been chosen and determined.