• Jainism is an Indian faith. The Jain scriptures are called Agamas and although the texts vary according to sects the basic philosophy is the same.
  • The Jains believe that the mission of  human birth is to achieve liberation from mundane life and the cycle of death and rebirth. This is achieved through the practice of non-violence and equanimity as preached by Lord Mahavira in the Agamas.
  • Jains revere twenty-four past tirthankaras, the “spiritual victors” of the descending half of the present time-cycle, whom they worship as exemplary persons or Gods. The first is believed to have lived thousands of centuries ago and the twenty-fourth (and last) was Vardhamana Mahavira.
  • The Namokkara mantra is recited on waking up, going to bed and at meal times and Jains may observe the ritual of pratikramana once or twice a day and meditate as often as desired,
  • Ideally same-sex contact and separate male and female wards are preferred but there is no taboo where medical and/or specialist personnel are involved.
  • The Jain patient may wish to say prayers with their Brahman.
  • Blood transfusions and organ transplants are acceptable if these are not obtained at the expense of another life.
  • Medication for the purpose of saving life is usually accepted without question.
  • If the toilet and bathroom are separate a water supply and beaker should be provided for cleansing purposes.
  • Jains are pure vegetarians and do not consume meat, fish, seafood, poultry or eggs.
  • Those Jains who adhere to the stricter code of conduct do not eat any root vegetables particularly onions and garlic but also potatoes, carrots, beets etc.
  • Salads, fruits, cooked grain of all types, cooked vegetables, bread or biscuits made without the use of eggs and dairy products are generally acceptable.
  • Jains do not consume alcohol.
  • There are fasts a) with no meal; b) two meals within 24 hours.
  • Water if used in a fast must be boiled.  Some Jains observe fasts without any intake of food or water.
  • Abstention from fruit and vegetables is practised on many days.
  • Fasts are undertaken on various days throughout the lunar month. They are more popular during the festival of Paryushana during August or September, which lasts for 8 or 10 days.
  • Two special 9-day periods called Ayambil are observed during June and December during which only one meal is taken.  This meal is prepared using only grain, flour, water, rock salt and pepper.  Use of dairy products, fruits, vegetables, nuts, oils, fats and any raw food is forbidden.
  • The family may provide a plain white gown or shroud for the dead patient.
  • The family may wish to be present during last offices and also to assist in their administration, and should be asked if they wish to do so.
  • Jains may be willing to donate organs and this should be checked with the individual or the next of kin.
  • Routine procedures are acceptable.
  • Bodies are always cremated and never buried except for infants.  Cremation must be performed as soon as practicable, even within hours if possible, without any pomp.
  • Many Jains still pursue Hindu customs as a family preference.