Svetambara

Śvetāmbara is one of the two main branches of Jainism. It is distinguished by monks wearing white robes and a less austere approach than that of the Digambara.

The Sanskrit word Śvetāmbara means “clad in white”. It refers to one of the two main branches of Jainism, historically contrasted with the Digambara (“clad in space”). The Śvetāmbara tradition emerged around the 2nd century CE following doctrinal and practical divisions, particularly after a famine believed to have led to the loss of ancient scriptures.

Śvetāmbara monks and nuns wear simple white robes as a symbol of purity, differing from the Digambara who practice ritual nudity. Unlike the Digambara, the Śvetāmbara maintain that women can attain spiritual liberation (moksha) in their present form.

They also preserve a canonical collection of scriptures considered authentic representations of Mahāvīra’s teachings, although these are not accepted by the Digambara. The tradition emphasizes structured monastic life, education, and ritual practice.

There are three major subsects: Mūrtipūjaka (image worshippers), Sthānakavāsī (non-idolatrous), and Terāpanthī, known for their reformist discipline. These divisions concern practice rather than doctrine.

Śvetāmbara communities are mainly found in Gujarat and Rajasthan and have significantly contributed to Jain religious literature and cultural heritage.