Answer

The Shwetambar and Digambar traditions originated as the two main Jain sects after a historical division in the Jain community, traditionally linked to events after Lord Mahavir’s nirvana.

• Shwetambar means “white-clad”
• Digambar means “sky-clad” or “clothed by space”

The split is generally associated with differing views on:

• Monastic nudity
• Scriptural preservation
• Practice and discipline of monks

Explanation

According to the commonly accepted traditional account:

• After a severe famine in Magadha, many Jain monks moved south under Acharya Bhadrabahu.
• Another group remained in the north under Sthulibhadra.
• Over time, differences arose regarding:

- whether monks should remain completely nude or wear white clothes - which scriptures were authentic and preserved correctly

Digambar tradition

• Believes a true monk should remain absolutely unclothed
• Holds that the original teachings were not fully preserved in written form
• Strongly emphasizes renunciation and austerity

Shwetambar tradition

• Allows monks to wear simple white clothes
• Accepts a different canon of scriptures
• Emphasizes purity, discipline, and monastic humility

Spiritual Understanding

Both traditions share the same core Jain principles:

• Ahimsa
• Aparigraha
• Satya
• Brahmacharya
• Asteya

The difference is mainly in monastic practice and scriptural tradition, not in the fundamental goal of Jain Dharma, which is liberation of the soul.

Takeaway

The Shwetambar-Digambar split came from a historical and disciplinary division within Jain tradition. Both are respected branches of Jain Dharma, and both seek the same ultimate spiritual goal: moksha.