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The contribution of Jainas in the field of Art and... 107
a consequence, not only did various sects of nonworshippers of idols emerge but also rapidly grew by finding favourable conditions or opportunities. In the background of origin of Sthānakavāsī sect in Svetāmbara tradition and Tāraṇapantha sect in Digambara tradition, we can notice the influence of the form of worship or prayer of Islam which is free from ritualism, even though, originally Jaina tradition had been free from rituals; Thus, it cannot be said categorically that the influence of Islam alone was behind the origin of these two sects
It is traditionally believed that Lokāśāha was not only recognized and accepted as a treasurer by his Muslim ruler, but he (the ruler) also gave a silent approval to his religious movement. The period of Lokāśāha was the period of Şhershah Suri and Babar following the reign of Muhammad Tuglak. Hindu administrators were also getting influenced by Muslim religion and its culture, besides earning their livelihood from them. It seems that while working for his Muslim ruler in Ahmedabad, Lokāśāha also got influenced by some good things about their religion. On the other hand during this period Jaina religion like Hindu religion also became predominantly ritualistic. And the spiritualistic aspect of Jaina religion was gradually disappearing. Caityavāsis or Yatis were indulging
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