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Upadhyays
This title is given to those Sädhus who have acquired complete knowledge of the Jain scriptures (Agams) and philosophical systems. They teach Jain scriptures to other ascetics and laypeople. Upadhyäys possess 25 attributes. These 25 attributes are the symbolic representation of the 25 Jain scriptures they study. These scriptures are as follows:
Twenty Five Attributes of Upädhyäys
11 canonical texts (Angas) compiled by Ganadhar, who were the immediate disciples of Tirthankar
12 canonical texts (Upängas) compiled by Shruta Kevalis
1 scripture of proper conduct
1 scripture of proper practice
According to Digambar Tradition Upadhyay has Knowledge of 11 Anga Agams and 14 Digambar Anga Bähya Agams.
Sådhus and Sädhvis
When householders desire to detach from the worldly aspects of life and gain a desire for spiritual uplift, they renounce worldly lives and become Sädhus (monk) or Sädhvis (nun). A male person is called Sädhu, and a female person is called Sädhvi. Before becoming Sädhu or Sädhvi, a lay person must stay with Sädhus or Sädhvis to understand their life style and do religious studies for several months. When they feel confident that they will be able to live the life of a monk or a nun, they inform the Ächärya that they are ready for initiation. If the Ächärya is convinced that they are ready and are capable of following the vows of Sädhu or Sädhvi, he prepares them for Dikshä. Dikshä is an initiation ceremony, following, which a householder becomes a monk or a nun. At the time of Dikshä, the Sädhu or Sädhvi take five major vows for the rest of his/her life.
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