Why should one practice Maun Sadhana (silence) during Paryushan?

During the days of Paryushan Parva, one simple sadhana which can be followed is Maun Sadhana, i.e. practicing the art of silence.

The main reason for any kind of misunderstanding and arguments is communication. The longer we maintain silence, the more we experience peace. The longer we remain silent, the more we are able to have control over our thoughts, speech and action in turn overcoming our restless nature. The more we practice silence, the more we avoid negative emotions, thus maintaining our relationships with others healthy and peaceful. We should strive to be in silence for atleast one hour each day to experience the blissfulness of inner peace.

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.