Answer

In Jain Dharma, Meru Teras is an important observance connected with Bhagwan Rishabhdev (Adinath), the first Tirthankar.

It is observed on Magshar Sud Teras according to the Jain calendar.

Importance

Meru Teras is remembered because it is associated with the auspicious event of Bhagwan Rishabhdev’s Diksha Kalyanak — the occasion when Bhagwan Rishabhdev renounced worldly life and accepted monkhood.

This day teaches the importance of:

• Renunciation — leaving attachment to worldly pleasures
• Vairagya — developing detachment
• Spiritual awakening — turning the soul toward liberation
• Following the path of restraint — self-discipline, non-violence, and purity

Spiritual Understanding

Bhagwan Rishabhdev was a great king before taking diksha. His renunciation reminds us that even the highest worldly power, wealth, and comfort are temporary. True greatness lies in conquering attachment, anger, ego, deceit, and greed.

On Meru Teras, many Jains perform religious activities such as:

• Worship of Bhagwan Adinath
• Tapasya or fasting
• Samayik, Pratikraman, and meditation
• Listening to pravachan
• Remembering the ideal of diksha and vairagya

Takeaway

Meru Teras inspires us to reduce attachment and move closer to the pure nature of the soul, following the example of Bhagwan Rishabhdev’s great renunciation.