Niyamasara, literally “The Essence of Observances,” distills the ethical backbone of Jain spiritual practice into a concise guide for inner purification. Penned by Āchārya Kundakunda, one of the most revered Digambara masters—often placed around the 2nd century CE—this text zeroes in on the discipline that leads to liberation, rather than on ritual or external form.

At its heart, Niyamasara maps out:

• The Three Jewels (Ratnatraya): Right Faith, Right Knowledge and Right Conduct become a seamless trio, laying the groundwork for every aspirant.
• The Five Vows (Mahāvratas): Non-violence, Truthfulness, Non-stealing, Chastity and Non-attachment are presented not as distant ideals, but as daily practices to walk the talk.
• Inner Restraint (Dharma-Niyama): A deep dive into how restraint of body, speech and mind transforms little choices into lasting freedom.

What sets Niyamasara apart is its laser focus on the mind’s tendencies—spotting subtle cravings, curbing anger’s spark, and nurturing equanimity. In a world hovering between digital overload and pandemic-heightened anxieties, Kundakunda’s emphasis on silent reflection feels surprisingly of the moment. Think of it as ancient mindfulness, urging a pause before every thought and action.

While modern self-help gurus talk about “habits” and “mind hacks,” Niyamasara presents a timeless architecture: each vow and observance builds on the last, creating a sturdy scaffold toward inner peace. In today’s hustle culture, revisiting this 2,000-year-old roadmap offers a fresh reminder that true freedom often begins with a single, mindful breath.