[Solved] What is Sthanakvasi Sect? Jainism Sub-sects Guide

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

[UPSC CSE Prelims 2018]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

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

Authentic Source Evidence

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.

Analytical Breakdown

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.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What is the primary difference between Sthanakvasi and other Shvetambaras?"

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

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

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

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Shvetambara 2 Digambara 5

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