Kshama means supreme forgiveness in Jainism.

• What it is: Kshama is a deep, inner forbearance that frees the mind from anger, hatred, and grudge. It is not just saying “sorry” but a steady, calm attitude of letting go of harm, even in the face of provocation. It includes forgiving others’ faults and seeking forgiveness for one’s own faults, with a spacious, compassionate heart. This is considered the first and most important of the ten Dash Lakshan (ten virtues) in Jain ethics. You can read more about Uttam Kshama (the supreme form of forgiveness) and its practice in Jain traditions.

• Everyday practice: Jains express kshama in daily life and rituals, especially during Paryushan/Das Lakshana, by saying Michchhami Dukkadham (a request for forgiveness) and by consciously letting go of anger when wrongs are perceived. Uttam Kshama means forgiving completely and maintaining equanimity even in difficult situations.

• Digambar vs. Shwetambar note: Both traditions prize kshama as a core virtue. The practical expressions (like the formal forgiveness prayers and dates) may vary, but the ideal of supreme forgiveness remains the same across both streams. For specifics, some communities emphasize different rituals or wording, but the essence—an unshakable, benevolent forbearance—is shared.

If you’d like, I can explain how kshama is treated in particular scriptures or prayers in either Digambar or Shwetambar lineages.