The Shwetambar Sthanakvasi Sadhumargi Samgh is a prominent sect within the Shwetambar tradition of Jainism. Here is a historical overview based on Jain teachings and records:

Origins and Development:

• The Sthanakvasi movement began in the 17th century CE as a reformist group within the Shwetambar Jain community. The word "Sthanak" means "place" or "hall," referring to their practice of congregating in simple prayer halls rather than ornate temples.
• The movement was founded by Lonka Shah (c. 1415–1489 CE), a Jain layman from Gujarat, who criticized the growing ritualism and idol worship within Jain communities. He emphasized a return to the original teachings of Mahavira, focusing on internal purity, meditation, and non-violence.
• The Sthanakvasi rejected idol worship and temple rituals, advocating for a more austere, introspective path. They instead promoted study, meditation, and ethical living as means to liberation (moksha).

Establishment of Sadhumargi Samgh:

• The term "Sadhumargi" refers to followers of the path of ascetics (sadhus). The Sadhumargi Samgh is an organized community of monks, nuns, and lay followers who adhere to the Sthanakvasi principles.
• The sect was further shaped and structured by Acharya Bhikshu (1726–1803 CE), who emphasized strict adherence to ascetic codes and non-idolatrous practices.
• Sthanakvasi monks and nuns are easily recognized by their white clothing, mouth-cloth (muhapatti), and their practice of not using idols in worship.

Characteristics and Practices:

• Sthanakvasi Shwetambar Jains do not worship idols and do not have temples with images of Tirthankaras.
• Their congregational worship takes place in simple halls called sthanaks, where scriptural study, meditation, and preaching are conducted.
• The Sthanakvasi emphasize the five great vows (Mahavratas) for ascetics and the twelve vows (Anuvratas) for laypeople, strict vegetarianism, and non-violence in thought, word, and deed.

Influence and Spread:

• The Sthanakvasi Sadhumargi Samgh is especially prominent in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Maharashtra.
• The movement played a significant role in Jain religious reform, encouraging scriptural literacy and ethical rigor among followers.

In summary, the Shwetambar Sthanakvasi Sadhumargi Samgh represents an important non-idolatrous, reformist stream within Jainism, emphasizing ethical conduct, scriptural study, and meditative practice while rejecting temple rituals and idol worship.