Jain monks practice strict asceticism and strive to make this or one of the coming births, their last. The laity who pursues less rigorous practices strives to attain rational faith and to do as much as possible.
Following strict ethics the laity usually chooses professions that revere and protect life and totally avoid violent livelihoods. Jains believe that Devas cannot help jiva to obtain liberation.
This must be achieved by individuals through their own efforts. In fact Devas themselves cannot achieve liberation until they reincarnate as humans and undertake the difficult act of removing Karma.
Their efforts to attain the exalted state of Siddha, the permanent liberation of jiva from all involvement in worldly existence must be their own.
ADVERTISEMENTS:
While performing holy deeds, Svetambar Jains put cloth over their mouths and nose to avoid saliva falling on texts. Jain monks walk barefoot and sweep the path in front of them to avoid killing of any insect. They take food before sunset.