Composed sometime between the fifth and third centuries bce, the Jain Sutras represent the system of thought crystallized by the Indian ascetic and teacher Mahavira in the sixth century bce. Also called the Angas, or “Limbs,” this body of eleven works is one part of the Jain canon, collectively called the Agamas. The sutras are the most important part of the canon, which also includes texts that explain and comment upon the sutras; instructions on how Jain monks, nuns, and laypeople should behave; and miscellaneous works covering general knowledge, such as grammar, mathematics, and astronomy.