Why were sects like digambar and shwetambar created?

The division into the Digambar and Shwetambar sects in Jainism arose primarily due to differences in practices and interpretations of Jain teachings that developed over time, especially after the era of Lord Mahavira (the 24th Tirthankara).

Historical Background: After the time of Mahavira, a major famine struck the Magadha region in the 4th century BCE. Bhadrabahu, a prominent Jain acharya, led a group of monks south to Karnataka, while Sthulabhadra remained in the north with other monks. During this period of separation, differences in practices and interpretations emerged.

Main Reasons for the Division:

1. Monastic Practices:

- Digambar (meaning "sky-clad") monks practice complete nudity, believing it represents absolute non-attachment. - Shwetambar (meaning "white-clad") monks wear simple white clothes, interpreting scriptural rules to allow this.

1. Scriptural Interpretations:

- Digambars believe that the original Jain scriptures (Agamas) were lost and do not accept the Shwetambar texts as authentic. - Shwetambars believe that the Agamas were preserved and compiled by their acharyas.

1. View on Liberation:

- Digambars hold that women cannot attain liberation (moksha) in their present form and must be reborn as men. - Shwetambars believe that women can also achieve liberation.

1. Idol Representation:

- Digambar idols are depicted without clothes and with downcast eyes. - Shwetambar idols are clothed and often have prominent, open eyes.

Summary: The creation of Digambar and Shwetambar sects resulted from differences in monastic conduct, interpretation of scriptures, and philosophical viewpoints, which developed due to historical circumstances and geographical separation. Both sects, however, uphold the core principles of Jainism such as non-violence (ahimsa), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), and truth (satya).