Jainism without Temples and Monks possible

It is a very bad thing that Jain temples have become places for senseless rituals. People donate huge amounts to the temples instead of donating it for social and educational causes. This is happening in idol worshipper Digambar and Shwetambar Murtipujaks.

On the other hand, the donations by followers of non idol worshipping sects like Sthanakwasis, Shwetambar Terapanthis and Taranpanthis are going mostly to educational institutions and social causes. I have observed that the followers of these non idol worshipping sects are
becoming dominant in Jain community, as well as in entire Indians. They have become strong in religious activities, business, education and even in politics. They have proved that Jainism can be followed without building temples and without going to the temples every day.

In Maharashtra, there are 14 Jain MLAs/MLCs, out of which 10 belong to Sthanakwasi sect. There is one Cabinet Minister in Government of Maharashtra, who also belongs to Sthanakwasi sect. 2 of the 3 Members of Parliament belonging to Jain community from Maharashtra are
Sthanakwasis.

On the other hand, most of the Jain monks are digressed and walking on wrong paths. Many monks are making money and have account with banks. Many Jain monks like to publicize themselves and the worst thing is that many monks are involved in sexual activities. Finding a true Jain monk has become almost impossible.

The Jains belonging to Kanaji sect do not believe much in today’s Jain monks. Without having monks, they are following Jainism very well. This sect has become strongest one in Digambar fold.

So, if there are Jains without temples and Jains without monks, I think that Jainism without temples and without monks is possible. This will help us to stay away from the rituals and corrupt monks.

If Jainism is for self realization, we do not need temples and monks. Rituals can not help us in self realization and the monks walking on wrong paths can not show us the right path.

-Mahavir Sanglikar