Significance of Digambara

Digambara is the second main sect of Jainism, known for its monks who practice nudity as a symbol of renunciation and asceticism. This sect is characterized by its distinct beliefs compared to the Shvetambaras. In various texts, Digambara is associated with concepts such as the complete human body representing the soul and is often depicted as an opponent in debates against Shvetambara. Additionally, the term is linked with extreme asceticism and the notion of fame that extends in all directions.1
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Synonyms: Sky-clad, Naked monk

In Dutch: Digambara; In German: Digambara; In Finnish: Digambara; In Spanish: Digambara; In Swedish: Digambara; In Malay: Digambara

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Digambara'

Hinduism Books

Digambara in Hinduism is interpreted as a sect emphasizing the soul's representation through the complete human body, advocating extreme asceticism with unclad monks and opposing Shvetambaras in philosophical debates, symbolizing omnipresence.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) A sect that believes the complete human body represents the soul.[1]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Jain concept of 'Digambara'

Jainism Books

Digambara in Jainism is a major sect recognized for its ascetic practices, distinguished from the Shvetambaras. It is defined by its monks’ nudity, symbolizing profound renunciation and commitment to spiritual purity.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra

(1) The second main sect of Jainism which is characterized by its monks being naked as a symbol of renunciation.[2]

From: Acaranga-sutra

(1) A major sect within Jainism known for its ascetic practices, distinct from the Shvetambaras, the other major sect.[3]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Digambara in local and regional sources

History Books

Digambara, a branch of Jainism, holds distinct views on the universe's structure, depicting it as three stacked trapezoidal prisms. This perspective illustrates the unique cosmological beliefs held within this sect of Jainism.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: History of Science in South Asia

(1) Digambaras is a sect of the Jaina organization, and they held the view that unity was not a number.[4] (2) Digambara is another branch of Jainism, and thinkers from this branch have different views on the shape of the universe, describing it as three trapezoidal prisms piled one upon another.[5]

Plural form: De Digambara.