Mahavira was the 24th tirthankara (supreme preacher) of Jainism. He taught that the soul is dravya (substantial), eternal, and yet temporary. To Mahavira, the metaphysical nature of the universe consists of dravya, jiva. The main teachings of Mahavira are:

• Ahimsa (non-violence): Mahavira taught that observance of the vows of ahimsa, satya (truth), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (chastity), and aparigraha (non-attachment) are necessary for spiritual liberation. He especially avoided injuring any kind of life, thus developing the doctrine of ahimsa.

• Anekantvada (multiplicity of views): This principle deals with the multiplicity of viewpoints and relativism (Syadavada) in the Jain literature. Difference of viewpoints, quite often, add to the knowledge and one should infer only after hearing diverse views on any subject.

• Aparigraha (non-possessiveness): This principle teaches non-possessiveness.

• Non-stealing: Mahavira taught not to steal and lead a simple life.

• Brahmacharya: This principle teaches chastity.

Mahaviras teachings were compiled by Indrabhuti Gautama, his chief disciple, as the Jain Agamas. The canonical scriptures are in twelve parts. Mahaviras teachings were gradually lost after about 300 BCE, according to Jain tradition, when a severe famine in the Magadha kingdom dispersed the Jain monks. Attempts were made by later monks to gather, recite the canon, and re-establish it.