Paryusana is a special Jain period of inner purification. The core idea is to calm the mind, restrain the senses, and steadily move toward ahimsa (non-violence) and forgiveness.

Why Jains fast and observe Paryusana, with forgiveness as the thread:

• Purification of the soul: Fasting helps burn past bad karma and reduces attachment to bodily desires. It is a practice to cleanse the mind and heart for atmashuddhi (purity of the self).
• Self-discipline and reflection: The days are devoted to pratikraman (confession and repentance), svadhyaya (study), and mindful living. This turns attention away from ego, anger, and greed.
• Forgiveness as the central theme: On Samvatsari (the last day in Shvetambar practice; or the equivalent Das Lakshana sequence in Digambar practice), Jains seek forgiveness from all beings and offer forgiveness to others. The spirit is “Michhami Dukkadam” — I forgive and may I be forgiven — which helps remove grudges and restore peace.
• Community and harmony: Forgiveness helps heal misunderstandings, deepens compassion, and strengthens the path toward peace for individuals and society.

Different traditions, same essence:

• Shvetambar: Paryushan is eight days long, with intense pratikraman, svadhyaya, and the public reading of Kalpasutra. The forgiveness focus culminates on Samvatsari.
• Digambar: Paryushan is called Das Lakshana Parva (ten virtues); each day highlights a virtue, with forgiveness tied to Kshamavani at the end.
• Both aim at atmashuddhi and universal forgiveness through confession, vows, austerities, charity, and self-restraint.

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