Answer

In Jain Dharma, monks and nuns pluck their hair by hand as a form of keśa-loch / keśa-luñchana. They do this because they have taken a vow of complete non-attachment and simplicity. They do not cut their hair with scissors or razors because cutting is seen as a more worldly, comfortable, and decorative practice.

Explanation

The main reasons are:

• Detachment from the body: Hair is one of the things people usually care about in appearance. Removing it by hand shows freedom from vanity.
• Penance and discipline: Plucking hair is physically uncomfortable, so it is a form of tapas, or austerity.
• Simplicity: Jain ascetics live without concern for personal style, beauty, or comfort.
• Tradition of renunciation: When one becomes a monk or nun, one gives up worldly attachment, and this act symbolizes that surrender.

They do not cut hair because Jain ascetics avoid using tools for grooming and beauty. The act of plucking is not for fashion; it is a spiritual discipline.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jainism, the body is temporary, but the soul is eternal. By letting go of concern for the hair and body, ascetics train themselves in:

• Aparigraha — non-possession
• Vairagya — detachment
• Tapas — austerity
• Sahaja simplicity — living without pride or vanity

So keśa-loch is not about pain alone. It is a spiritual reminder that the soul should remain above bodily attachment.

Takeaway

They pluck hair and do not cut it because it is a sacred sign of renunciation, humility, and detachment in Jain life.