Why cant we move patla while doing ekasna?

In Jainism, ekasana refers to the practice of eating only one meal a day, usually taken while sitting in a designated place. The patla is a small wooden platform or stool on which one sits during this meal.

Moving the patla while doing ekasana is discouraged for several reasons, rooted in Jain principles:

1. Ahimsa (Non-violence): Moving the patla may inadvertently harm small living beings (micro-organisms or insects) present on the ground or under the patla. Jainism emphasizes utmost care to avoid harming any form of life, even the minutest.

2. Sanyam and Discipline: Ekanasana is not just about limiting food intake but also about practicing discipline, mindfulness, and self-control. Sitting in one place without moving the patla symbolizes steadiness, restraint, and focus on spiritual practice.

3. Purity and Ritual Observance: The area and the patla are purified before the meal. Moving the patla can disturb this sanctity, and the new spot may not have been properly checked or purified according to Jain rituals, potentially violating the rules of cleanliness and ritual purity.

4. Minimizing Desire and Attachment: Jain practices discourage unnecessary movements and actions that may arise from restlessness or discomfort. Remaining still helps cultivate detachment and minimizes desires.

In summary:
Moving the patla during ekasana is avoided to uphold the vows of non-violence, discipline, ritual purity, and detachment, all of which are core principles in Jainism.