Explanation of Bhag Chand Jain Mitrapura’s views on Jainism, Paryushan, and forgiveness:
- Core Principles of Jainism:
- Jainism shares a common goal with other religions: the welfare of the self, humanity, and all living beings.
- Key principles include non-violence, non-attachment, and forgiveness.
- Jainism operates on the scientific principle of karma, where individuals create their own destiny without relying on a god’s authority.
- Daily Practice of Pratikraman:
- Jain followers practice seeking forgiveness from all living beings through a ritual known as Pratikraman.
- Paryushan (Dashalakshana Dharma) Festival:
- One of the most important Jain festivals, celebrated during Bhadrapada month.
- Focuses on ten virtues:
- Uttam Kshama (forgiveness)
- Uttam Mardava (humility)
- Uttam Arjava (honesty)
- Uttam Shaucha (cleanliness)
- Uttam Truth (truthfulness)
- Uttam Restraint (self-control)
- Uttam Tapa (austerity)
- Uttam Tyag (renunciation)
- Uttam Akinchan (non-possessiveness)
- Uttam Brahmacharya (celibacy)
- Reflection on Virtues:
- During Paryushan, Jain followers reflect on their behavior in light of these ten virtues.
- Kshamavani (Forgiveness Day):
- Paryushan concludes with Kshamavani on Ashwin Krishna Ekam, where followers seek forgiveness for known and unknown mistakes.
- Symbolizes spiritual reform and the power of forgiveness in thoughts, words, and actions.
- Dashalakshana Dharma:
- Begins with Uttam Kshama Dharma (forgiveness) and ends with Kshamavani.
- Practicing forgiveness leads to the assimilation of other virtues.
- On Uttam Kshama Dharma day, followers focus on self-study, simplicity, purity, and detachment.
- Significance of Kshamavani:
- Provides an opportunity to reflect on harm caused to others and resolves grudges and enmities.
- Encourages atonement for past mistakes and a commitment to avoid future transgressions.
- Forgiveness as Strength:
- Forgiveness is a sign of strength, not weakness, and promotes mental and spiritual growth.
- Non-retaliation in certain situations can also be considered an act of forgiveness.
- Teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir on Anger:
- Mahavir teaches that anger destroys love, and the only way to overcome anger is through forgiveness, which leads to mental peace and the removal of animosity.
- Double Benefit of Forgiveness:
- Forgiveness liberates the person from guilt and removes emotional distance, creating a comfortable environment.
- Forgiveness as a Self-Refining Quality:
- Forgiveness is essential as everyone makes mistakes. Kshamavani is observed with the spirit of admitting mistakes and making corrections for personal growth.
Input – Times Of India
