What is "yati"

Yati ("Jati" in vernaculars) historically was the general term for a Jain monk. In the late medieval period it came to represent a stationary monk, who lived in one place rather than wandering as required for a Jain monk. 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.

Some scholars married and were termed Sansari yati or mahātmās.

Some ruling dynasties in Rajasthan had a close relationship with yatis. Abu'l-Fazl ibn Mubarak mentions that yatis were invited to participate in the discussion on religions.

The stationary yatis often managed institutions and properties. Some of their residences are termed Jatiji in their memory.

With reestablishment of orders of wandering (samvegi) monks since late 19th and early 20th century, the number of yatis have declined significantly.