The universe (loka) is uncreated and eternal — it has no beginning and no end. No creator god. The universe functions through natural laws. Jain cosmology describes a multi-layered universe with specific spatial structure. Matter (pudgala), souls (jiva), and other fundamental substances have always existed.

The Five Great Vows (Mahavratas) for monks; lesser vows (Anuvratas) for laity. Extreme emphasis on non-violence to all living beings.

To achieve kaivalya (liberation) — the soul's release from karmic bondage and attainment of omniscience, infinite bliss, and infinite power. The liberated soul (siddha) exists eternally in a state of pure consciousness.

Suffering is caused by karma — material particles that cling to the soul due to passions (kashaya). Violence, attachment, and wrong belief generate karma. Since there is no God, there is no 'problem of evil' — suffering is entirely the result of one's own actions across lifetimes.

Time moves in endless cycles of ascending (utsarpini) and descending (avasarpini) half-cycles. Each half-cycle has six ages ranging from blissful to degenerate. We are currently in the fifth age of a descending cycle. No final end — the cosmic wheel turns eternally. Individual liberation is the only 'escape.'