Svetambaras

Svetambaras, or Svetambara Jainism, are one of the two major Jain sects, the other being Digambara (the “sky-clad”). The name means “white-clad,” reflecting the traditional dress of its monks and nuns. The split with Digambaras is generally dated to early centuries CE and stemmed from differences over monastic practice, textual authority, and interpretation of doctrine.

Like all Jains, Svetambaras uphold key Jain principles such as non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-stealing, celibacy, and non-attachment. The goal is spiritual purification and liberation (moksha) through ethical conduct, ascetic discipline, and the shedding of karma. Svetambaras emphasize the authority of a canonical scripture tradition and the importance of both monastic and lay practices in guiding ethical conduct. They venerate Mahavira as the 24th Tirthankara and acknowledge a long line of teachers who shape Jain doctrine and ritual.

Monastic life and texts differ between Svetambaras and Digambaras. Svetambara monks and nuns traditionally wear white clothing and follow a corpus of scriptures preserved within the Svetambara tradition (including Anga and Upanga texts). In contrast to Digambaras, Svetambaras ordain both male and female monastics, allowing women to pursue renunciation and liberation within their framework.

Geographically, Svetambaras form a large portion of the Jain community in western and northern India, especially Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and parts of Madhya Pradesh, with diasporic communities worldwide. Digambaras are also a major Jain group, with strong presence in several states, including Bihar and parts of central India. Both sects share core Jain philosophy and many rituals while maintaining distinct practices and textual traditions.