Answer

Barapanthis are a sect within the Digambar Jain tradition.

The word “Barapanthi” is commonly understood as “followers of the thirteen” or “the thirteen-path tradition,” though explanations of the term may vary within tradition.

Explanation

Barapanthis are Digambar Jains who follow traditional forms of worship that include:

• Temple worship of Tirthankar images
• Use of offerings in puja, such as flowers, rice, sandalwood, lamps, and other traditional items
• Devotional rituals performed before the image of the Jina

They are often mentioned in contrast with Terapanthis of the Digambar tradition, who developed as a reform-oriented group and generally avoid certain ritual offerings in worship.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, worship is ultimately meant to inspire:

• Faith in the Tirthankars
• Purity of thoughts
• Detachment from worldly passions
• Progress toward right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct

Whether one belongs to Barapanthi, Terapanthi, or another Jain tradition, the central Jain goal remains the same: purification of the soul and liberation.

Takeaway

Barapanthis are Digambar Jains who preserve traditional image-worship practices with ritual offerings, especially in contrast to the Digambar Terapanthi reform tradition.