Answer

In Jain tradition, the rajoharaṇ / rajoharaṇī is used by monks and nuns to gently move away tiny living beings before sitting, walking, or placing objects. Its purpose is ahiṁsā.

Regarding the material, practices differ by Jain tradition, region, and monastic lineage. Some traditions describe the rajoharaṇ as being made from soft wool, while in many places today monks may use cotton or other permitted soft material, depending on the rules accepted in their gaccha, sampradāya, or ācārya-paramparā.

Explanation

The important point is that the rajoharaṇ must be:

• soft, so it does not injure tiny beings,
• simple and non-luxurious,
• used only for carefulness in ahiṁsā, not for comfort or decoration,
• accepted according to monastic discipline.

If a monk uses a cotton rajoharaṇ today, it does not automatically mean the tradition is being disrespected. Jain monastic rules are followed through the living discipline of the monastic order. The ācāryas and senior monks guide what is proper in their lineage.

About Bhagwan Mahavir giving a woolen rajoharaṇ: this is understood within certain traditional accounts, but one should be careful not to conclude that every monk in every later lineage must use exactly the same material in all times and places. Jain conduct emphasizes the purpose and discipline behind the object: protection of life and reduction of harm.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, the rajoharaṇ is not important as a “material object” but as a symbol of:

• ahiṁsā — non-violence,
• apramatta-bhāva — alertness and carefulness,
• saṁyama — restraint,
• compassion toward even the smallest living beings.

Whether wool or cotton is used, the deeper question is: does it help the monk practice greater care, humility, and non-violence?

Takeaway

Jain monks use the rajoharaṇ for ahiṁsā. The material may vary according to monastic tradition and guidance of the ācāryas. The essence is not wool versus cotton, but carefulness toward living beings and faithful observance of Jain monastic discipline.