Yati, historically was the general term for a monkorpontiffinJainism.[1]
In the late medieval period, yati came to represent a stationary monk, who lived in one place rather than wandering as required for a Jain monk.[2] The term was more common for the Śvētāmbara monastics, but was also used by the Digambaras. The term has also been occasionally for ascetics from other traditions.[3]
Some scholars married and were termed sansari yati[4]ormahātmās.[5][6]
Some ruling dynasties in Rajasthan had a close relationship with yatis.[7] Abu'l-Fazl ibn Mubarak mentions that yatis were invited to participate in the discussion on religions.[8]
The stationary yatis often managed institutions and properties. Some of their residences are termed jatiji in their memory.[9]
With the re-establishment of orders of wandering (samvegi) monks since late 19th and early 20th century, the number of yatis have declined significantly.[10][11]
The heads of the institutions of Śvetāmbara yatis were often termed shripujya,[12] similar to Digambara institutions headed by the Bhattarakas. Only a celibate yati could become a shripujya. They have now been replaced by acharyas who head orders of wandering monks.
In sharp contrast there is also a painting in Hampi of a yati or a pontiff being taken in a procession in a palanquin.