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Divisions in Jainism :: 101
the Svetāmbaras wear white clothes. In fact there are no fundamental doctrinal differences between the two sects. For example, the most authoritative sacred text of all Jainas is the Tattvārthādhigama-sūtra by Umāsvāti. However, there are some major as well as minor points on which the two sects are opposed to each other. (A) Some Points of Differences
Some of the points of differences between the Digambaras and Svetāmbaras are as follows: (i) Practice of Nudity
Digambaras stress the practice of nudity as an absolute pre-requisite to the mendicant's path and to the attainment of salvation. But the Svetämbaras assert that the practice of complete nudity is not essential to attain liberation. (ii) Libaration of Woman
Digambaras believe that a woman lacks the admantine body and rigid will necessary to attain mokșa, i.e., liberation: hence she must be reborn as a man before such an attainment is possible. But the Svetāmbaras hold the contrary view and maintain that women are capable, in the present life time, of the same spiritual accomplishments as men. (iii) Food for Omniscient
According to the Digambaras, once a saint becomes a kevali or Kevala-jñānī, that is, omniscient, he needs no morsel of food. But this view is not acceptable to the Svetāmbaras, (B) Minor Points of Differences
Leaving aside the trivial differences in rituals, customs and manners, the following are some of the minor points on which the two sects of Digambaras and Svetāmbaras do not agree: (i) Embryo of Mahāvīra
The Svetāmbaras believe that Mahāvīra was born of a Ksatriya lady, Trisalā, though conception took place in the
