10 Basic Rules of a Jain Temple
                     10 Basic Rules
of a Jain Temple
(Derasar)
Jainism, one of  the oldest religions in the world,  emphasizes non-
violence, self-discipline, and spiritual purity. These values are deeply
reflected in the conduct expected when visiting a Jain temple, known
as a  Derasar or  Basadi. Jain temples are not just places of worship
but also centers of calm, discipline, and sacred energy.
Here  are  the  10  basic  Jain  rules every  visitor  or  devotee  should
follow when entering a Jain temple:
1. Maintain Complete Purity (External 
and Internal)
Before entering a Jain temple, one must take a bath and wear clean
clothes. Physical cleanliness is considered essential, but so is internal
purity—visitors  should  enter  with  a  calm,  humble,  and  respectful
mind.  Consuming  alcohol,  meat,  or  garlic/onion  before  visiting  is
discouraged, as these are considered impure in Jain philosophy.
2. Remove Footwear Before Entering
Shoes or any footwear must be removed before entering the temple
premises. This shows respect and maintains the sanctity of the space.
In  many  temples,  special  racks  are  provided  to  keep  footwear
outside.
3. Observe Silence and Peacefulness
Maintaining silence or speaking softly is crucial inside a Jain temple.
Devotees  are  expected  to  focus  on  prayers,  meditation,  and
introspection.  Loud  talking,  laughing,  or  using  mobile  phones  is
inappropriate and disrespectful to the spiritual environment.
4. Dress Modestly
Modest and traditional clothing is preferred. Avoid wearing revealing
or flashy attire. Both men and women are encouraged to dress in a
simple  and respectful  manner,  with  the intention of  honoring  the
sacredness of the temple and the deities.
5. Do Not Bring Leather Items Inside
Items  made  from  leather—belts,  wallets,  purses,  or  jackets—are
strictly prohibited inside Jain temples. Jainism follows Ahimsa (non-
violence) to the highest degree, and using animal-derived products
goes against this principle.
6. Do Not Touch Idols Without 
Permission
The  idols  (Murtis)  of  the  Tirthankaras are  considered  extremely
sacred. Only authorized persons (usually priests or pujaris who have
performed specific rituals) are allowed to touch or bathe the idols.
Others  should  worship  from  a  distance,  with  folded  hands  and
reverence.
7. Follow the Pradakshina Path 
(Clockwise Circumambulation)
Devotees usually perform pradakshina, or circumambulation, around
the  idol  in  a  clockwise  direction.  This  act  symbolizes  showing
devotion and respect to the Tirthankaras. It should be done slowly,
mindfully, and without turning one's back toward the idol abruptly.
8. Avoid Carrying Food or Drink
Outside  food  or  drink  should  not  be  brought  into  the  temple.
Consuming anything inside the premises is strictly prohibited. Even
offerings  (Naivedya)  must  follow  Jain  dietary  restrictions  and  are
usually only placed respectfully without actual consumption inside.
9. No Photography or Videography
Most  Jain  temples  do  not  allow  photography  or  video  recording
inside, especially in front of idols. It is considered a distraction and
disrespectful  to  the  spiritual  environment.  Always  ask  temple
authorities  if  you  wish  to  take  pictures  of  the  architecture  or
premises.
10. Worship with Pure Intentions
Lastly,  the  essence  of  Jain  temple  conduct  lies  in  Bhav  Puja—
worshipping with pure intentions and devotion. More than rituals,
what  matters  is  the  mindset.  Visitors  should  pray  with  sincerity,
humility,  and a desire for  spiritual  upliftment rather than material
gains.
🧘 Significance of Following These Rules
These jain rules are not just about etiquette but are deeply rooted in
the Jain path of liberation. Every action, even during worship, must
reflect  Ahimsa (non-violence),  Satya (truth),  and  Aparigraha (non-
attachment).  By  following  these  temple  rules,  one  cultivates  self-
discipline, respect for life, and inner peace.
🧘 Digital  Jain  Pathshala:  Learn  from
Anywhere
In  today’s  digital  age,  learning  about  Jainism  is  easier  and  more
accessible than ever. Digital Jain Pathshala is an innovative initiative
that  brings Jain  education into the homes of  children,  youth,  and
adults through virtual platforms.
Whether you’re a beginner or a lifelong practitioner, Digital Pathshala
offers:
 Offline  classes on  Jain  philosophy,  history,  rituals,  and
scriptures
 Interactive learning through videos, quizzes, and stories
 Language  options (Gujarati,  Hindi,  English)  for  better
understanding
 Spiritual  guidance from  knowledgeable  Jain  teachers  (Guru
Bhagwants or Shravaks)
 Flexible  schedules that  suit  students,  professionals,  and
families
These Jain Pathshala’s Offline classes are a great way to reinforce the
values learned in temple visits and apply Jain principles in everyday
life. Just like respecting the temple environment, learning about Jain
rules  through  Digital  Pathshala  builds  awareness  and  inspires  the
practice of non-violence, truth, and compassion in the digital age.
📚 Conclusion
A Jain temple is a sacred space that helps the soul progress toward
liberation (Moksha).  Respecting the Jain temple rules  allows us to
deepen  our  connection  with  Jain  teachings  and  honor  the
Tirthankaras who showed the path of  truth and non-violence.  Let
every visit be an opportunity to practice humility, compassion, and
self-awareness.