Answer

In Jain Pratikraman, doing Vandana with the words beginning like “Icchāmi khamāsamaṇo… vandāmi” and ending with phrases such as “āvaśyāyaṁ… kāyaṁ…” is a humble act of bowing down to the Guru and seeking permission to perform spiritual duties.

It means:

• “With humility and devotion, I bow to the revered Guru.”
• “I ask for forgiveness for any faults committed by body, speech, or mind.”
• “I respectfully request guidance and permission for the required spiritual practice.”

Explanation

Vandana means respectful salutation. In Pratikraman, it is not just a physical bow. It is an expression of:

• Vinay — humility and reverence
• Kshamā — asking forgiveness
• Guru-bhakti — devotion toward the Guru
• Spiritual readiness — preparing oneself for repentance and purification

The phrase you wrote as “a ..ho ..kayam” is likely from the Prakrit wording recited during Vandana. Its sense is connected with approaching the Guru respectfully and acknowledging one’s bodily posture/action while performing the ritual.

In simple understanding, while doing Vandana, the devotee is saying:

• “I bow down with respect.”
• “Please forgive my mistakes.”
• “Please allow me to perform Pratikraman properly.”
• “May my body, speech, and mind become purified.”

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, pride and ego are major obstacles to spiritual progress. Vandana reduces ego and increases humility.

Before Pratikraman, we are about to confess faults, repent, and purify ourselves. Vandana prepares the inner attitude: “I am not here with pride; I am here with humility, repentance, and devotion.”

Takeaway

Doing Vandana in Pratikraman means humbly bowing to the Guru, asking forgiveness, and preparing the soul for sincere repentance and inner purification.