Śvētāmbara

The Svetambaras (Sanskrit, m., श्वेताम्बर, Svetambara, White Robed ) are a group within the Jainism.

Lifestyle

Although there are monks under Svetambaras, they form but rather the large group of lay people within the Jain community. Compared to the Digambaras they represent more moderate positions. But Svetambaras live in principle according to the commandment of ahimsa, non-violence and respect for all living beings. In order not to accidentally kill an insect they often wear a white mouth guard or sweep the floor before they step on it.

In the center of the sanctuary of Shravanabelagola in Mysore is the - by Digambara custom - totally naked Jain ascetic Bahubali / Gomateshvara illustrated - the ideal image of many Jains, also of Svetambaras. His motionless meditation even goes so far that wind up on his body tendrils.

The postulates of violence and immobility have meant that Jains were active and the like usually in ' sitting ', but exclusive professions, such as dealers, jewelers and are. This fact - combined with a largely ascetic lifestyle - in turn meant that many Shvetambara families were quite wealthy and could with large funds lavish temples and their restoration (eg in Mount Abu, Ranakpur or Jaisalmer ) fund, which also are visited by Digambaras.