Why do Digambara monks practice nudity?

Digambara monks practice nudity as a profound expression of their commitment to the Jain vow of nonpossession (aparigraha). By renouncing all clothing and personal property, these ascetics interpret the requirement of nonpossession more intensely than the Shvetambara sect, viewing nudity as a necessary step toward spiritual liberation.12

This practice is rooted in the belief that it aligns their monastic life with the ancient model established by Mahavira, the last of the Tirthankaras. For Digambara practitioners, the rejection of clothing signifies a complete detachment from the material world and the passions associated with it. Furthermore, the sect maintains that this rigorous asceticism is essential for the pursuit of moksha, as they argue that a monk who retains possessions—such as clothing—cannot achieve ultimate spiritual release.12