Answer

Paryushan is observed at this time of year because it traditionally falls during the Chaturmas period—the four-month rainy season—when Jain monks and nuns stay in one place instead of travelling.

This creates a special opportunity for laypeople to listen to Dharma, practice self-discipline, do repentance, study scriptures, and deepen spiritual awareness.

Explanation

In Jain tradition, monks and nuns normally travel from place to place. But during the rainy season, many small living beings arise in water, soil, and vegetation. To avoid harming them through travel, ascetics remain in one location during Chaturmas.

Because the monks and nuns are stationary, householders can receive more guidance from them. This is why this period became especially important for:

• Pratikraman
• Fasting and tapasya
• Listening to discourses
• Scriptural study
• Forgiveness and repentance
• Inner purification

Paryushan occurs within this sacred rainy-season period.

Spiritual Understanding

The word “Paryushan” is commonly understood as a time of coming closer to the soul and staying near Dharma.

Its purpose is not merely ritual observance, but inner cleansing:

• Reducing anger, ego, deceit, and greed
• Asking forgiveness through Micchami Dukkadam
• Practicing ahimsa more carefully
• Reflecting on one’s conduct
• Strengthening samyak darshan, samyak jnan, and samyak charitra

Takeaway

Paryushan is followed at this time of year because the rainy season supports stillness, non-violence, scriptural learning, repentance, and deeper spiritual practice. It is a sacred opportunity to pause worldly activity and turn inward toward the soul.