Compendium of Jainism

SR No.: 001202
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: T K Tukol, A N Upadhye
Publisher: Prasaranga Karnatak University Dharwar
Publication Year: 1980
Total Pages: 352
Language: English
Classification: Book_English & Philosophy
File Size: 17 MB

Page 66

54
COMPENDIUM OF JAINISM
are also some minor sects in South India like Panchamas, Caturtha, Bogara, Setavāļa etc. but they seem to have originated on the basis of occupations; they are not mentioned in any of the books or other records of historical value.
i) Terāhapantha
The heads of Jaina Mathas were called Bhattārakas. They possessed property and other paraphernalia incidental to their office. A section of the community seems to have taken objection to their way of life and stopped respecting them or saluting them. One Banārasidasa, a resident of Agra seems to have headed this opposition sometime in the 18th century. The group came to be known as Terā hapanthi. The followers do not respect the Bhattārakas. They are opposed to decorating the idols. They prohibit the use of flowers and saffron in the worship. This group spread to all parts of India.
ii) Bisapantha
The supporters of the Bhattārakas styled themselves as Bisapanthis. They follow the customary practices of worship of naked idols. They use flowers and scented agarbattis (incense sticks) at the time of worship and make offerings of fruits etc.
These groups continued to live in peace and luckily there have been no quarrels between them. They accept the scriptures of Digambaras.
iii) Tāraṇapantha
.
One person by name Taranataranasvāmi who died in Malhargadha in the former princely state of Gwaliar in 1515 A. D. was the originator of this creed. The place of his Samadhi is regarded as a place of pilgrimage by his followers. They prohibit idol worship. They build temples but keep sacred books for worship. They do not offer articles like fruits and flowers at the time of worship. Besides the books sacred