The Adishwarji Jain Temple in Mumbai. Jainism is a religion and philosophy originating in the prehistory of South Asia. Jainism has significantly influenced the religious, ethical, political and economic spheres in India for well over two millennia. Jainism stresses the spiritual independence and equality of all life with a particular emphasis on non-violence. Self-control (व्रत, vrata) and vigorous asceticism are the means by which Jains attain moksha or liberation from the cycle of rebirth.