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UPSC CSE Prelims 2018

Sub-sects of Jainism

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

With reference to the religious practices in India, the 'Sthanakvasi' sect belongs to

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Within Jainism, several reforms led to the creation of sub-sects based on interpretations of rituals and idol worship.

Explanation Sthanakvasi is a sub-sect of the Shvetambara tradition of Jainism. It was founded by Lavji around 1653 AD as a reform movement against the use of temples and idols.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option B is correct. Sthanakvasis believe that God is formless and that soul purification does not require external idols or temples.
Logic 2: They pray in 'Sthanaks' (simple halls) rather than temples, distinguishing them from Murtipujaka Shvetambaras.

Active Recall

Question

What is the primary difference between Sthanakvasi and other Shvetambaras?

Answer

Sthanakvasis reject idol worship and temple rituals, focusing instead on internal meditation and scriptural study.

Core Insight

The Sthanakvasi movement reflects an iconoclastic trend within medieval Jainism, similar to certain reformist movements in other world religions.

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