jags ☆

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Description:
Just Another Gibbs Sampler for Bayesian MCMC simulation

Type: Formula | Tracked Since: Dec 28, 2025

Links: Homepage | formulae.brew.sh

Category: Other

Tags: bayesian statistics mcmc simulation scientific-computing

Install: brew install jags

About:
JAGS (Just Another Gibbs Sampler) is a program for Bayesian statistical inference using Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC). It provides a cross-platform engine for analyzing complex hierarchical models and generating posterior distributions. Its primary value is offering a flexible, scriptable environment for statisticians and researchers to perform rigorous Bayesian analysis.

Key Features:

Supports Gibbs sampling and Metropolis-Hastings algorithms
Uses a dialect of the S language for model specification
Extensible via user-defined distributions and functions
Cross-platform support for Linux, macOS, and Windows

Use Cases:

Bayesian hierarchical modeling in scientific research
Statistical analysis of complex, multi-parameter systems
Generating posterior samples for predictive inference

Alternatives:

Stan – Stan uses Hamiltonian Monte Carlo (HMC) and often offers faster convergence for complex models, but JAGS is simpler to install and integrates directly with R via rjags.
WinBUGS/OpenBUGS – JAGS is a modern, open-source, and actively maintained alternative to the legacy BUGS software, offering better stability and platform support.

Version History

Detected	Version	Rev	Change	Commit
Sep 14, 2024 9:44am		0	VERSION_BUMP	11be55a3
Oct 1, 2023 6:43am		0	VERSION_BUMP	bf1d4a42