Why are womens not allowed to touch anything or do anything when they are on periods why they're treated like dirt
I understand your frustration. In Jainism, there is no teaching that a woman is inherently “dirt” or that she should be treated badly during menstruation. That idea does not come from the core Jain scriptures or philosophy.
What you often hear about is historical or cultural practice in some Jain communities, not a universal or essential Jain rule. In some places, certain rituals or temple practices have restricted participation for women on their menstrual days. These restrictions are not about spiritual purity taught by the Jain path itself, but rather reflect local customs, social norms, or interpretations that vary between Digambar and Shwetambar traditions. Many modern Jains and Jain educators emphasize equality, non-violence, and respect for all beings, including women, and argue that menstruation is a natural biological process, not a reason for disdain.
If you’d like, I can share:
- How Digambar and Shwetambar traditions view this issue differently.
- What the core Jain texts say about purity, ritual access, and equality.
- How contemporary Jain communities are approaching or reforming these practices to align with Jain principles of respect and non-violence.
Note: If you want specific scriptural references or a precise explanation from Jain scriptures, I can provide those in a careful, authentic way.