Svetambara

Definition

Svetambara is one of the two main sects of Jainism, characterized by its followers wearing white robes and holding different interpretations of Jain scriptures compared to the other sect, Digambara. This group emphasizes the accessibility of spiritual knowledge and the importance of community practices in achieving liberation, connecting deeply with the philosophical underpinnings of Jain metaphysics, ethics, and epistemology.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Svetambaras believe that women can attain liberation, contrasting with some Digambara beliefs that assert women must be reborn as men to achieve this state.
2. The Svetambara sect is known for its inclusive approach, encouraging lay participation in religious rituals and community service.
3. Their scriptures include the 'Kalpa Sutra', which provides guidelines on monastic life and the stories of the Tirthankaras.
4. Svetambaras also practice more lenient interpretations of asceticism, allowing for the use of some clothing and possessions compared to the stricter adherence of Digambaras.
5. The sect has various sub-sects, such as the Murtipujaka, who worship images of Tirthankaras, highlighting the diversity within the broader Svetambara tradition.

Review Questions

• How does the Svetambara sect's interpretation of women's role in spiritual practice compare to that of the Digambara sect?
  • The Svetambara sect holds a more inclusive view regarding women's spiritual potential, believing they can achieve liberation without needing to be reborn as men. This contrasts sharply with Digambara beliefs that require women to undergo rebirth as males before they can attain liberation. This difference reflects broader philosophical discussions within Jainism about gender roles and spiritual equality.
• Discuss the significance of community practices within the Svetambara tradition and how they impact Jain ethical perspectives.
  • Community practices are essential in Svetambara traditions, promoting active participation from laypeople in rituals and ethical living. This inclusivity strengthens communal bonds and reinforces ethical principles like Ahimsa among followers. By encouraging collective engagement in spiritual activities, Svetambaras foster a sense of shared responsibility for achieving liberation while promoting compassion and non-violence in daily life.
• Evaluate how the differences between Svetambara and Digambara sects contribute to diverse interpretations of Jain metaphysics and ethics.
  • The differences between Svetambara and Digambara sects lead to varied interpretations of Jain metaphysics and ethics by influencing their views on ascetic practices, scriptural authority, and community involvement. For example, Svetambaras allow for certain possessions among monks, which can shape their understanding of attachment and renunciation. These divergent perspectives not only enrich the overall tapestry of Jain thought but also reflect broader philosophical questions about individual versus communal paths to enlightenment, ultimately shaping how Jains approach ethical living in relation to Ahimsa.

Related terms

Digambara: The other major sect of Jainism that differs from Svetambara primarily in practices regarding monastic life and interpretations of texts, notably that monks do not wear clothing.

Ahimsa: The principle of non-violence and respect for all living beings, which is central to Jain ethics and significantly influences both Svetambara and Digambara sects.

Tirthankara: A spiritual teacher in Jainism who has achieved liberation and provides a path for others to follow; both Svetambara and Digambara sects revere the same Tirthankaras but may interpret their teachings differently.