English Pratikraman Introduction and Ritual together for English Speaking Jains

Author(s): Mayur and Rita Lodaya (Speaker)
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

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PARYUSHAN AND DAS LAKSHANA PARVA
Ten Religious Virtues: 1. Kshamä Forgiveness
Märdava Humility Arjava
Straightforwardness Shaucha
Contentment - absence of greed Satya
Truth Samyam Restraint of all senses Tapa
Austerities 8. Tyag
Charity 9. Äkinchan Non-possessiveness
10. Brahmacharya Chastity or Celibacy Some traditions read the Tattvärtha Sutra, an ancient Jain scripture that covers the entire Jain philosophy, is read to the congregation. The scripture has 10 chapters and one chapter is read every day. The last day of Paryushan (Samvatsari) and the first day of the Das Lakshana Parva (Kshama) are the day of forgiveness, and the most important day for all Jains. This is the day when all Jains repent for their past sins, ask for forgiveness from family, friends, enemies, and especially from those with whom they have struggled, for hurting them in any way either knowingly or unknowingly during the past year. It is essential to our spiritual advancement that we do not harbor ill will or hold grudges beyond a year. Hence, the annual occasion for repentance and forgiveness is the most important day in Jain tradition.
By meditating and purifying ourselves during these eight days of Paryushan or ten days of Das Lakshana, we come to realize ourselves. We call the Festival of Paryushan, the Festival of the Soul; when we forgive, we become one with the light of our soul. On the last day those who have observed rigorous fasting are honored, especially to encourage others to follow their example. Listening to the Kalpa Sutra, Tattvärtha Sutra, or some other scripture, taking positive steps to ensure the welfare of fellow human beings, animals and all other living beings, developing the feeling of brotherhood towards all human beings and forgiveness
ENGLISH PRATIKRAMAN