What is terapanthy and other types of jainism followers?
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Here is a simple, authentic overview in Jain Dharma terms.
- Terapanthi (Terapanth): A reform-minded branch within Śvetāmbara Jainism. It started in the 18th century under Muni Bhikhanji (Ācārya Bhikṣu) and later grew under centralized leadership (one acharya at a time). Terapanthi emphasizes strict discipline, non-idolatry in many practices, and organized monastic life. In Śvetāmbara contexts, Terapanthi is one of the main sub-traditions alongside Sthanakvāsī and Murtipujaka. There is also a Digambara Terapantha among Digambaras, a separate lineage with its own rules. ( jainpedia.org)
- Other major Śvetāmbara sub-sects:
- Sub-sects within Digambara (the other main sect):
- A quick geography-and-practice note:
If you’d like, I can give a short, side-by-side comparison of what each sub-sect typically does in daily practice and temple life. You can read more here ( jainknowledge.com)