Answer

In many Jain families, fruits are not eaten during Paryushan because fruits often contain many tiny living beings, seeds, or possible microorganisms, and eating them may involve greater harm to life. During Paryushan, Jains try to practice extra care in ahimsa, self-control, and purification of the soul.

Explanation

Paryushan is a sacred time for:

• Reducing attachment to taste
• Practicing discipline in food
• Increasing awareness of non-violence
• Doing pratikraman, repentance, fasting, and spiritual reflection

Fruits may be avoided for several reasons:

• Seeds: Many fruits contain seeds, which have the potential for life.
• Tiny organisms: Fruits may contain very small living beings, especially if overripe or cut.
• Fresh plant life: Eating fresh fruits involves taking life from plant bodies.
• Taste attachment: Fruits are often sweet and enjoyable, so avoiding them helps control desire for taste.

This practice can vary by family, sect, region, and level of observance. Some people avoid only certain fruits, some avoid all green vegetables and fruits, and some follow stricter fasting rules.

Spiritual Understanding

The main purpose is not simply “not eating fruit.” The deeper purpose is to become more careful, less indulgent, and more compassionate toward all living beings.

During Paryushan, Jains try to reduce harm and increase inner purity through:

• Ahimsa — non-violence
• Sanyam — self-restraint
• Tap — austerity
• Kshama — forgiveness

Takeaway

Fruits are avoided during Paryushan as a practice of greater non-violence and self-control. The focus is on reducing harm, reducing attachment to taste, and purifying the soul.