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114 Jaina Religion: Its Historical Journey of Evolution
special characteristic of these three traditions of 20th century AD is that all of them lay greatest emphasis on individual's growth. According to them, purification of thought is necessary and is prior to purification of conduct. Besides these new and separate traditions, many events of historical significance have occurred in the currently prevailing traditions also. One such event of great importance is that Acharya Shantisagarji revived the tradition of naked monks in Digambara tradition, which had almost disappeared for centuries in the country. Today, there is sufficient number of these Digambara monks in our country, In the Svetāmbara Mūrtipūjaka (idol-worshipping) tradition attempts were made to unite various gacchas and sects but they were not very successful. Secondly, Caityavāsī tradition of Yatis is almost extinct in this century except for some individuals Yatis left. It is present only in name, whereas in the Samvigna-monk tradition there is gradual deterioration, in the conduct of these monks. And some Samvigna monks have started living like Yatis as far as their conduct is concerned. This is an aspect that needs deliberation. From the point of view of Sthānakavāsī sect this century has special importance, as very significant efforts have been
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