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PRATIKRAMAN RITUAL
C. - English Pratikraman - Observance of SelfReflection Jainism believes that from time immemorial, every soul is full of impurities. Mithyätva (Ignorance) and Kashaya (anger, ego, deceit, and greed) which arise from attachment and hatred are the soul's impurities. To reduce and to remove such impurities, Jainism has prescribed certain practices known as Avashyaka (essential practices) to be performed daily and regularly by all Jains. These practices free the human mind from negative thoughts of attachment and hatred and enhance the soul's spiritual progress, ultimately leading to liberation. Ancient Jain literature defines six such activities. Six Ävashyaks or Daily Practices: 1. Sämäyika
State of Equanimity for certain
duration 2. Chauvisattho or Devotional Prayer to Tirthankars
Chaturvimshati-Stava 3. Vandana
Respecting Ascetics 4. Pratikraman
Repentance and Confession of
Sins of minor violations of Vows 5. Käyotsarga
Non-attachment to the Body 6. Pratyakhyana or Religious Vows
Pachchakhana Each Avashyak ritual includes many original Sutras written in Ardha-Magadhi and Sanskrit languages. These Sutras consist of many hymns in praise of the Tirthankaras and many verses of repentance, confession, and requests for forgiveness. C1. - Sämäyika - State of Equanimity To remain in the state of equanimity without attachment and hatred, and to treat all living beings equal to one's self is called Sämäyika. Equanimity is the act of remaining calm and tranquil. It implies neutrality of mind and temper. It is essential for the practice of nonviolence and removal of Mithyatva and Kashayas, which ultimately removes all Karma.
This ritual is performed to develop equal regard towards all living beings, equanimity towards pleasure and pain, and to be free from attachment and aversion.
During Sämäyika, a devotee renounces worldly activities, fully controls his or her mind, speech and bodily activities, and lives the life of an ascetic. It is important to remain calm, meditate, read
ENGLISH PRATIKRAMAN
