Q. Consider the following differences between the Svetambara and Digambara sects of Jainism:

1. While Svetambara believe that women can attain salvation, Digambara believe that women can not attain salvation
2. While Svetambara believe that Mahavira was married, Digambara believe that Mahavira was never married

Which among the above statements is / are correct?
Answer: Both 1 & 2
Notes: Swetambars believe in Sabastra Mukti, that women can attain salvation, recognize Sabastra Guru and hold that in the Kaivalya condition Mahavira had illness. The Swetambar Jains holds that Mahavira Swami married and ruled and had a daughter. They are also of the view that the 19th Tirthankara was a lady Mallahkumari.
Digambars believe that because of certain deformities peculiar to their sex, women cannot attain Mukti in the present life, but can do so in a future birth. However, they can, at the same time, observe the great vows and lead a true Jain life. The Digambar Jains does not recognize Sabastra Guru. They hold that Mahavira Swami was a Bal Brahmachari and he had never married, nor did he have any raj. They do not believe that in the Kaivalya condition Mahavira Swami had any illness.

This question is part of UPSC Daily 20 MCQ Series Course on GKToday Android app.