Help Sadharmiks

Paryushan Mahaparva, one of the most sacred festivals in Jainism is also the most opportune time for seekers to observe austerities and perform penances. And if one is not able to stay hungry or observe fasting themselves due to health or any such reason, they should definitely serve and help others who are doing so. We should make the surroundings around them comfortable for them to perform their desired penances. If any of our activities bothers them, like watching TV or loud volume during news, debates, etc that could potentially disturb them, we should take utmost care to avoid the same. We should support them in their spiritual pursuits and make the surrounding as comfortable for them to achieve their goals.

All those who are not able to perform fasting or observe any penance themselves, must serve those who are doing so by taking care of them, serving them and offering support and necessary useful items, so that they can complete their penances successfully.

Paryushan Parv – the 8-day Jain Festival of Forgiveness is an occasion to eliminate the impurities that pollute the soul – such as anger, ego, greed, jealousy, deceit, attachment, hatred and much more. It is a period of emotional cleansing and becoming light and relaxed from within.

From a karmic perspective, it is said that during these 8 days, the magnetic frequencies in the entire universe are the highest. As a result, the soul vibrates the most and may even bind the karmas that determine his next birth. And therefore, Jains observe maximum sadhanas, spiritual practices, penance and fasting during these days to make the most of this auspicious period.

Param Gurudev Shree Namramuni Maharaj Saheb profoundly enlists a detailed list of Do’s and Don’ts of what should be done and what we should refrain from doing during these divine days of Paryushan. During these Paryushan days, Jains make an effort to realize, repent and seek forgiveness for mistakes made during the entire year by performing Pratikraman, Alochana fasting, taking small Pachkhan vows, etc. The last day of Paryushan, known as Samvatsari, is the day when everyone performs the annual practice of Samvatsari Pratikraman and says sorry or ‘Michhami Dukadam’ to every living of the universe for having hurt them knowingly or unknowingly through their mind, body and speech.