Svetambara

Definition

Svetambara refers to one of the two major sects of Jainism, characterized by its members wearing white clothing and embracing a more liberal interpretation of Jain teachings compared to the other sect, Digambara. This sect believes in the possibility of women achieving liberation and has a broader acceptance of texts and practices that differ from those of the Digambaras, highlighting a significant aspect of Jain beliefs and practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Svetambaras believe that women can achieve liberation (moksha) and are equal in spiritual potential to men, which contrasts with the beliefs held by Digambaras.
2. The Svetambara sect emphasizes textual study and often includes more scriptures than the Digambara sect, showcasing their inclusive approach to Jain teachings.
3. Members of the Svetambara community traditionally wear white robes as a symbol of their commitment to non-attachment and simplicity.
4. The main religious texts for Svetambaras include the 'Sutra Kritanga' and 'Samavaya', which guide their practices and beliefs.
5. Svetambara monks often carry a broom made from soft materials to gently sweep away insects while walking, reflecting their commitment to ahimsa.

Review Questions

• How does the Svetambara sect's view on women's spiritual potential differ from that of the Digambara sect?
  • The Svetambara sect holds that women can achieve liberation just like men, believing in their equal spiritual potential. In contrast, Digambaras believe that women must be reborn as men in order to attain moksha. This significant difference highlights the contrasting interpretations within Jainism regarding gender and spiritual attainment.
• Discuss how Svetambara practices and beliefs reflect their interpretation of Jain scriptures compared to Digambara traditions.
  • Svetambaras tend to embrace a more inclusive approach to Jain scriptures, incorporating a wider range of texts into their practice. They emphasize the importance of studying religious texts such as the 'Sutra Kritanga' and 'Samavaya,' which inform their teachings. This is in contrast to Digambaras, who have a more restricted view on scripture and do not accept certain texts. This divergence reflects deeper theological differences between the two sects regarding authority and interpretation.
• Evaluate the impact of Svetambara beliefs on contemporary Jain communities and how they contribute to discussions on gender equality within religious contexts.
  • The beliefs held by Svetambara Jains significantly influence contemporary discussions around gender equality within religious frameworks. By asserting that women can attain liberation and actively participating in religious life, Svetambaras challenge traditional norms not only within Jainism but also in broader society. Their stance promotes an understanding of equality and inclusivity that resonates with modern movements advocating for women's rights. Consequently, Svetambara principles serve as a progressive model for how ancient religious traditions can adapt to contemporary values surrounding gender equality.

Related terms

Digambara: Digambara is the other primary sect of Jainism, whose adherents traditionally believe that men must renounce all clothing to achieve true liberation and view women as incapable of reaching the highest spiritual level without first being reborn as men.

Ahimsa: Ahimsa is the principle of non-violence that is central to Jainism, emphasizing the importance of harming no living being in thought, word, or deed, which both Svetambaras and Digambaras uphold.

Tirthankara: Tirthankaras are revered spiritual teachers in Jainism who have attained liberation and serve as role models for others; Svetambaras particularly venerate the same Tirthankaras as Digambaras but may differ in certain iconographic representations.