Then what are sthanakvasi and mandir margiya
Answer
Sthanakvasi and Mandir Margiya are two main traditions within Jainism, especially among the Śvetāmbara community.- Sthanakvasi Jains do not worship idols in temples.
- Mandir Margiya Jains do worship Tirthankara idols in temples.
Explanation
Sthanakvasi
The word Sthanakvasi comes from sthanak, meaning a place for spiritual practice or meditation.Sthanakvasi Jains believe in:
- meditation
- self-discipline
- reading scriptures
- non-idolatrous worship
They generally:
- do not go to temples for idol worship
- worship through prayers, meditation, and ethical living
- often avoid rituals that involve idols
Mandir Margiya
The word Mandir Margiya means those who follow the temple path.Mandir Margiya Jains believe in:
- temple worship
- idol devotion of Tirthankaras
- rituals like puja, darshan, and devotional practices
They visit temples and express devotion through:
- abhishek
- puja
- aarti
- respectful bowing before the idols of Tirthankaras
Spiritual Understanding
Both traditions aim for the same Jain goal:- self-purification
- reduction of attachment
- progress on the path to liberation
The difference is mainly in method of worship, not in the core Jain values of:
- ahimsa
- truth
- non-possessiveness
- self-control
- spiritual discipline
Takeaway
In simple words:- Sthanakvasi = Jain tradition without temple idol worship
- Mandir Margiya = Jain tradition with temple idol worship
Both are part of the broader Jain path and both respect the teachings of the Tirthankaras.