What it means (arth): On the 3rd day, the emphasis is on purifying the mind and body through penance and self-discipline. The aim is to strengthen inner tamas and pravrutti through sacrifice of comforts and restraint, so that the soul can shine with more pure conduct and thoughts.
Common practices on the 3rd day:
- Athav Upvas (fast or partial fast) as a form of self-control and purification.
- Pratikraman (ritual confession and repentance) in the morning and/or evening.
- Stavan, bhajan, or discourses that focus on virtuous living and non-violence.
- Reflection on one’s duties, truthfulness, and non-violence, with an emphasis on reducing passions and attachments.
- Some communities begin or continue with readings or discourses tied to Ashtak (Ashtā́lika) or other Jain scriptures, depending on local tradition.
Digambar vs. Shwetambar differences (summary):
- Digambar and Shwetambar communities both observe eight-day Paryushan with similar aims (purification, forgiveness, self-restraint). The exact sequence of readings and the emphasis of certain rites (e.g., when Kalpasutra is read, or how Pratikraman is organized) can vary by sangh and region.
- The general spirit on the 3rd day remains the same: increasing self-discipline and mental purification through penance and contemplation.
If you’d like, I can summarize a typical 3rd-day schedule from a specific sangh (e.g., Shwetambar or Digambar) or point you to a JainKnowledge resource that describes the day-by-day plan.
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