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  • Do sky clad monks make others uncomfortable with their nudity?
  • author Posted by
    Jain Follower

    Do sky clad monks make others uncomfortable with their nudity?

    8 months ago 172

    In Jainism we have to see this from two sides: 1) the intention of the Digambar (sky‑clad) muni, and 2) the natural reaction of ordinary people.

    1. What is nudity for a Digambar muni?
    • For him it is not about the body at all.
    • It is a vow of total aparigraha (non‑possessiveness): no cloth, no “mine,” no shame, no show.
    • He lives in deep vairagya (detachment), absorbed in dharma, not trying to attract anyone’s attention.
    • In Jain view, this is a very high and rare state of renunciation, not a social or sexual act.
    1. Do people sometimes feel uncomfortable?
    • Yes, practically speaking, many people today feel shy, awkward, or uncomfortable when they first see a nude monk.
    • This is because our minds are conditioned to link nudity with sexuality or indecency.
    • Jain Dharma says the real problem is not the saint’s nudity, but our own drishti (way of seeing) and inner vasanas (desires).
    1. How should a Jain look at it?
    • Try to see the muni as a soul practicing the highest level of renunciation, not as a body.
    • If one feels uncomfortable, it is better to remain respectful from a distance than to criticize or mock.
    • Ahimsa applies in thoughts and speech also; insulting a true sadhu creates heavy papa (bad karma).
    1. Different traditions
    • Digambar: sky‑clad nudity for monks is essential to their ideal of total renunciation.
    • Shvetambar: monks and nuns wear simple white clothes; they do not consider nudity necessary.
    Both accept that for most people, such extreme renunciation is very difficult to understand, so some discomfort is natural at first.

    You can read more about Digambar practice and nudity as renunciation here and here

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