Jain Spirit 2004 10 No 20

Author(s): Jain Spirit UK
Publisher: UK Young Jains

Page 36

34 FEATURES
Parna (fast breaking)
Paryushan is the time to heal, to mend, to include, to embrace, to settle disputes and to unite with everyone, without exception. Forgiveness is the foundation of friendship. Friendship is the house of unconditional love, lasting relationships and profound respect for all living beings. In this house of friendship the queen of enduring peace reigns.
On the last day of Paryushan the Jains fast for twenty-four hours. This is the fast for forgiveness. During this fast we chant the prayer of forgiveness (Khamemi Savva Jivve): "I forgive those who have injured me and I beg for forgiveness from all whom knowingly or unknowingly I may have harmed. I declare friendship with all living beings, I have enmity towards no one." Next morning before breaking the fast, every Jain must go personally to everyone he or she can reach on foot, and beg for forgiveness and offer forgiveness to acquaintances, friends, relatives and business contacts. To those who cannot be reached personally, a letter is sent, in which we seek forgiveness and say 'Michchami Dukadam!
Particular attention is paid to people with whom there is some outstanding problem or dispute. Unless and until forgiveness has been exchanged the fast cannot be broken. If a small dispute is allowed to grow, it can become a giant destructive force for the whole community and therefore, any rift should be dealt with then and there. A stitch in time saves nine. If we have a small cut on the hand, one is advised to
Sadhus holding a lecture
wash it, apply ointment and perhaps a bandage. If a cut is ignored, it can become septic and may prevent us from living a healthy normal life. In the same way, if a small misunderstanding has arisen due to careless speech, bad temper or prejudice, it should be cleared up immediately. We need to develop a way of life which minimises friction between ourselves and others. We need to cultivate an attitude of forgiveness and sensitivity to others, and particularly, we must observe the principle of ahimsa by thought, word or action. If a negative, callous or insulting thought about others comes into our mind, we must become aware of it and alarm bells should ring. The seeds of conflict, animosity and war are sown in the minds of individuals. Forgiveness necessitates tolerance and acceptance of many ways of being. It also necessitates
Whilst living our worldly life, we accumulate a lot of baggage and negative energy. Paryushan is the time to clear that clutter and make a bonfire to burn that junk, that rubbish, which is corrupting our minds, our lives and our relationships. Jains must seize this unique opportunity.