Varshitap vidhi in english

Here is a simple English explanation of Varshitap Vidhi (the ritual method for Varshitap), based on Jain texts and tradition.

What Varshitap is

• Varshitap is a year-long austerity (tap) observed by Jains, inspired by Lord Rishabhanath (Adinath). It is practiced as fasting and disciplined conduct on alternating days, with additional spiritual practices each day. In modern practice, it is commonly described as a one-year cycle of fasting on alternate days, with specific rules for meals, conduct, and worship. The exact duration and rules can differ slightly between Digambar and Śvetāmbara traditions, but the core idea remains the same: intense self-discipline to shed karma and progress toward liberation.

Core elements of Varshitap Vidhi (the method to observe Varshitap)

• Start and pace: Varshitap is undertaken for a set year, typically starting on a favorable tithi in the Jain calendar and continuing with alternating days of fasting and eating. If a fasting day falls on a special tithi, the fasting may be extended or adjusted accordingly. The exact start date changes each year according to the lunar calendar. You observe fasting on alternate days throughout the year.
• Daily prayers and practices:

- Namokar Mantra and daily contemplation on spiritual duties are recited. - Samayik (a period of equanimity and meditation) and Pratikraman (confession and repentance) are performed if possible.

• Fasting rules (Upavas or Ayambil/Ekasana):

- On fasting days, you perform Upavas (full or partial fast) as per capacity. Some observances include Ayambil (eating once a day with limited foods) or Ekasana (one meal a day). - Avoid eating food that would break the spirit of renunciation; be mindful of the rules for proper food and preparation.

• Dietary restrictions during Varshitap:

- Avoid root vegetables (Jamikand) and other foods considered heavy or difficult to digest during the vows. - Some traditions also avoid bathing on fasting days.

• Parna (food after fasting):

- Traditionally, parna is taken with sugarcane juice in many communities, especially when the Varshitap ends or for certain days.

• Brahmacharya and conduct:

- Observers keep celibacy and maintain strict discipline in conduct and speech during the vow.

• Sanchit water:

- Avoid keeping or storing old, stagnated water during the vow.

• Reading and study:

- Monthly reading of the life of Lord Rishabhdev (Rishabh Charitra) or related spiritual literature is encouraged to sustain devotion and focus.

• End of Varshitap and fruits:

- Completing the cycle with a sense of spiritual progress, mental peace, humility, and growth in self-control. The ultimate aim is purification of the soul and progress toward Moksha (liberation).

Notes on traditions (Digambar vs Śvetāmbara)

• The two major Jain sects have slight variations in the details and emphasis of Varshitap rules. In general:

- Śvetāmbara traditions often emphasize a longer uninterrupted fast period and more detailed months of practice, with Rishabhdev’s life and specific chantings as part of the practice. - Digambara traditions may emphasize stricter celibacy, different fasting formats (e.g., longer Ayambil periods), and different devotional texts or observances.

• The spirit of Varshitap remains the same across both traditions: intense self-discipline, purification of karma, and advancement toward spiritual liberation.

If you’d like, I can provide a short, devotional verse related to Varshitap in English, or guide you to a specific JainKnowledge page that explains Varshitap in more detail in English. You can read more here