JAINISM
JAINISM
Bring out the differences between Digambara and Swethambara sects of Jainism (10 MARKS)(GS1)
- Historical Background:
- Digambara: The Digambara sect traces its origins to the schism that occurred in the Jain community around the 1st century BCE. The term "Digambara" means "sky-clad," indicating the practice of ascetic nudity among monks. The Digambara tradition emphasizes a stricter interpretation of non-possession, advocating complete renunciation of clothing and worldly attachments.
- Shvetambara: The Shvetambara sect, meaning "white-clad," emerged as the other major division. This sect retained the use of white robes for both monks and nuns. The schism between the Digambara and Shvetambara traditions was partly rooted in disagreements over the interpretation of the monastic lifestyle.
- Ascetic Practices:
- Digambara: Ascetic nudity is a distinctive feature of Digambara monks who believe that complete renunciation includes shedding all material possessions, including clothing. They practice a more austere and minimalist lifestyle, relying on alms for sustenance. Digambara nuns, however, wear white clothing.
- Shvetambara: Monks and nuns of the Shvetambara sect wear white robes, symbolizing purity and non-attachment. They carry a small broom made of shed peacock feathers, which they use to sweep the ground in front of them as they walk, minimizing harm to tiny organisms. The Shvetambara ascetic lifestyle is ascetic but less stringent in terms of nudity.
- Scriptural Differences:
- Digambara: The Digambara sect rejects the authority of certain texts, including the "Angas" (canonical scriptures). They believe that many of these texts were lost or destroyed, and only a few portions remain. Digambaras accept different sets of scriptures, known as the "Shatkhandagama" and "Kashayapahuda."
- Shvetambara: Shvetambaras recognize a more extensive canon, which includes the "Angas" and "Upangas" as their primary scriptures. They believe in the preservation of the original teachings, and their textual tradition is more comprehensive compared to that of the Digambaras.
- Iconography and Symbolism:
- Digambara: Digambara art and iconography often depict Tirthankara images without clothing, emphasizing their spiritual purity and transcendence of the material world. Digambaras do not use images in their temples; instead, they focus on meditation and visualization of the enlightened beings.
- Shvetambara: Shvetambara art includes adorned images of Tirthankaras, reflecting their conviction that the enlightened beings can be adorned without attachment. Temples of Shvetambaras house elaborate images of Tirthankaras with jewelry and symbols of royalty.
- Role of Women:
- Digambara: Historically, Digambara monastic tradition did not have a formal order of nuns. The idea was that it was challenging for women to practice complete nudity and asceticism. However, contemporary Digambara communities have established an order of nuns who wear white clothing.
- Shvetambara: The Shvetambara tradition has had an established order of nuns for centuries. These nuns follow a disciplined monastic life and wear white robes. Shvetambara communities have been more inclusive in providing opportunities for women to pursue the ascetic path.
- Rituals and Worship:
- Digambara: Digambaras focus on meditation, austerity, and renunciation. They do not emphasize elaborate rituals or temple worship. Instead, the emphasis is on inner purification through spiritual practices.
- Shvetambara: Shvetambara rituals include elaborate temple worship, including the consecration of images of Tirthankaras. Worship, rituals, and festivals play a significant role in the Shvetambara tradition, providing a structured framework for religious practice.
- Social Engagement:
- Digambara: Digambaras traditionally placed a stronger emphasis on renunciation and monkhood. However, contemporary Digambara communities recognize the importance of social engagement and have established educational and charitable institutions.
- Shvetambara: Shvetambaras, while valuing asceticism, have historically been more engaged in various social and philanthropic activities. They have established schools, hospitals, and organizations aimed at contributing to societal well-being.
- Geographical Distribution:
- Digambara: The Digambara tradition is prevalent in parts of South India, Maharashtra, and some northern regions. The Karnataka region, in particular, has a significant Digambara presence.
- Shvetambara: The Shvetambara tradition has a more widespread presence, with strongholds in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and other parts of North India. The majority of the Jain population in India follows the Shvetambara tradition.
