Maskhaman (also spelled as "Masakshaman" or "Masakshamana") refers to the practice of fasting unto death by voluntarily giving up food and sometimes water, observing complete detachment from the physical body. In Jainism, this is known as Santhara or Sallekhana—a highly respected spiritual practice undertaken by advanced ascetics and sometimes laypersons at the end of life.

Mahavir Swami and Maskhaman:

According to Jain scriptures and traditions, Bhagwan Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara, practiced Sallekhana (Maskhaman) at the end of his earthly life. After a long life dedicated to self-realization and spiritual teachings, Mahavir Swami, at the age of 72, decided to undertake this ultimate vow. He spent his final days in the village of Pavapuri (in present-day Bihar, India).

During this period:

• Mahavir Swami gave up all forms of food and water, engaging in deep meditation and detachment from the body.
• He focused his mind on the soul (atma) and spiritual liberation (moksha).
• He attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) earlier in his life, but at the end, through Maskhaman, he achieved moksha—complete liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Significance in Jainism:

• Maskhaman is not considered suicide, but a highly disciplined spiritual act to shed karmas and attain liberation.
• It is performed with full awareness, detachment, and with the guidance of a spiritual teacher.
• Mahavir Swami’s Maskhaman is seen as an ideal for Jain ascetics, symbolizing supreme renunciation and self-control.

References:

• Jain Agamas, especially the "Kalpa Sūtra" and "Uttarādhyayana Sūtra", describe the final days of Mahavir Swami and his practice of Sallekhana (Maskhaman).
• Jain tradition commemorates Mahavir Swami’s nirvana (liberation) on the day of Diwali.

If you need more details on Mahavir Swami’s Maskhaman or its significance, feel free to ask!