Jain monasticism
Jain monasticism
Jain monasticism refers to the order of monks and nuns in the Jain community and can be divided into two major denominations: the Digambara and the Śvētāmbara. The monastic practices of the two major denominations vary greatly, but the major principles of both are identical. Five mahāvratas (Great Vows), from Mahavira's teachings, are followed by all Jain ascetics of both the sects. Historians believe that a united Jain sangha (community) existed before 367 BCE, about 160 years after the moksha (liberation) of Mahavira. The community then gradually divided into the major denominations. However, no evidence indicate when the schism between the Digambaras and the Śvetāmbaras happened.
Terminology
Digambaras use the word muṇi for male monastics and aryika for female monastics. Svetambara monks are also called nirgrantha (without bonds). Śvētāmbaras also use the word muṇi for male monastics but use the term sadhvis for female monastics.
History
Mahavira had 11 chief disciples, Indrabhuti Gautama being the most senior.
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