| Part of a serieson |
| Jainism |
|---|
 |
|
|
|
Ethics
Ethics of Jainism
|
|
Jain prayers |
|
Major figures |
|
Major sects |
|
|
|
Festivals |
|
Pilgrimages |
|
Other |
|
|
Kharatara Gaccha is one of Śvetāmbara Murtipujaka Gacchas. It is also called the Vidhisangha (the Assembly) or Vidhimarga (Path of Proper Conduct), as they regard their practices as scripturally correct.[1][2][3]
Kharatara Gaccha was founded by Vardhamana Sūri[2] (till 1031 CE). His pupil, Jineshvara, got honorary title 'Kharatara' (Sharp witted or Fierce) because he defeated Suracharya, leader of Chaityavasis in public debate in 1024 CE at Anahilvada Patan. So the Gaccha also got his title.[2] Khartara also means that "which is beyond" (tara) "purity" (khara), that is, being upright with the absolute truth, by following the religious scriptures without deviation (Jain Agamas) as it is. Another tradition regards Jinadatta Suri (1075―1154) as a founder of Gaccha.[2][4]
Jinavallabha realised the difference between texts and words of teachers and put emphasis on sacred texts in Kharatara doctrine in the eleventh century. He wrote the Crown of Assembly.[1]
The following four are known as Dada Guru in the sect and are venerated as spiritual guides.[5]
Kharatara ascetics regard their practices as scripturally correct. They follow basic Śvetāmbara canon and works of other Kharatara teachers.[1]
Ascetics: 193 nuns, 19 monks in 1986[1] or 50-75 monks and 300 nuns.[2] Large number of its lay followers reside in Rajasthan and West Bengal states of India.[2][1]
Several members of Kharatara Gaccha were notable writers:
|
| |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gods |
| ||||
| Philosophy |
| ||||
| Branches |
| ||||
| Practices |
| ||||
| Literature |
| ||||
| Symbols |
| ||||
| Ascetics |
| ||||
| Scholars |
| ||||
| Community |
| ||||
| Jainism in |
| ||||
| Jainism and |
| ||||
| Dynasties and empires |
| ||||
| Related |
| ||||
| Lists |
| ||||
| Navboxes |
| ||||
