Significance of Nirgrantha
Nirgrantha is a term with significant implications in various religious traditions, particularly Jainism and Buddhism. It describes ascetics who strictly adhere to renunciation, embodying ideals of detachment from worldly pleasures and material goods. In Jainism, Nirgrantha refers to monks who follow rigorous vows, advocate non-violence, and represent a path to liberation through disciplined spiritual practice. This concept also encompasses a broader context, including various sects and historical figures, highlighting the diverse interpretations and practices surrounding asceticism in South Asia.
Synonyms: Jain monk, Ascetic, Renunciant, Hermit, Seeker, Sage., Monk, Mendicant
In Dutch: Nirgrantha; In Spanish: Nirgrantha; In Finnish: Nigrantha
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Nirgrantha'
Nirgrantha in Buddhism denotes a Jain ascetic, often aligned with Mahavira, contrasting Buddhist principles. It also refers to Jain followers in historical regions, highlighting their prominence and the differences between their practices and Buddhist traditions.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Followers of Jainism, noted to be numerous in Pundravardhana during historical accounts.[1]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) Jain ascetic, a follower of Mahavira, said to be a contemporary of the Buddha.[2]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Refers to a particular ascetic or non-Buddhist practitioner, often contrasted with Buddhist ideals.[3]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) A title referring to ascetics, exemplified by Saca who attained the true law.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Nirgrantha'
Nirgrantha in Hinduism signifies "the unfettered ones," primarily referring to Jains. It denotes a group often seen as outside Vedic teachings and associated with false doctrines, alongside the Ajivikas, highlighting their distinct religious identity.
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) A religious group regarded as a section of the Jainas, mentioned in conjunction with the Ajivikas.[5]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A group associated with certain doctrines mentioned as being outside the Veda and often linked to false teachings.[6]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) The term literally means 'the unfettered ones' and refers to the Jainas.[7]
Jain concept of 'Nirgrantha'
Nirgrantha in Jainism denotes disciplined ascetics who renounce worldly desires and attachments, engage in extreme non-violence, and follow strict ethical vows. They exemplify spiritual enlightenment and commitment to liberation from material existence.
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) A term referring to a well-controlled or disciplined ascetic, particularly one who has renounced worldly possessions.[8] (2) A term referring to a specific group of ascetics within the religious tradition, highlighted in the context of lodging.[9] (3) A term referring to a specific type of ascetic, representing a religious or spiritual figure who may influence the offerings received by monks.[10] (4) Another term for Jaina monks, highlighting their renunciation of worldly pleasure.[11] (5) A person who is liberated from material attachments and is indifferent to worldly pleasures.[12]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) A term referring to a wandering ascetic or monk who strictly adheres to a life without attachments.[13] (2) Followers or practitioners of a philosophy that values non-violence, righteousness, and the pursuit of liberation.[14] (3) A term for followers of extreme asceticism, often associated with rejected social norms and committed to non-violence.[15] (4) A spiritually enlightened individual who is disciplined, knowledgeable of the true nature of self, and renounces sinful desires and societal recognition.[16]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) A designation for monks who refrain from taking material goods from householders unless freely given, reflecting their commitment to spiritual values.[17] (2) A monk or ascetic who follows strict rules regarding conduct, especially concerning interactions with women and worldly pleasures.[18] (3) Monks who have successfully crossed the ocean of Samsara through the practice of correct behaviour.[19] (4) A term referring to ascetics who follow strict vows and renunciations in their pursuit of liberation.[20]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A term for ascetics or followers of a religious tradition, specifically the disciples of Parshva whom Goshala encounters.[21] (2) Fourth of the 5 divisions of nirgranthas.[22]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The saint in whom the rise of karmas is indistinct, he will attain perfect knowledge and faith within forty-eight minutes, and is described as without any possessions, both internal and external.[23]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A term referring to the followers of the spiritual path that Jamali expressed faith in.[24]
The concept of Nirgrantha in local and regional sources
Nirgrantha refers to a prominent group of ascetic sectaries known for their strict, austere lifestyle and nudity, particularly prevalent in regions like Samotata and Vaishali, emphasizing ascetic practices within sectarian beliefs.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) A group of sectaries that are noted to be the most numerous in the described region.[25] (2) The naked ascetics found in Samotata, known for their strict and austere lifestyle.[26] (3) A group of ascetics who go naked, covering themselves with ashes.[27] (4) A large group of followers in Vaishali advocating for asceticism, often mentioned in the context of sectarian beliefs.[28] (5) A group of people who bear no clothing and go naked.[29]