Chatt attham tapasya
1
Answer
In Jain Dharma, Chatt Attham Tapasya generally refers to a tapasya involving fasting in a structured way:
- Chatt usually means fasting for two consecutive days.
- Attham usually means fasting for three consecutive days.
So, Chatt-Attham Tapasya is commonly understood as a form of austerity where a person observes fasting connected with Chatt and Attham, according to the guidance of their Guru or tradition.
Explanation
In Jain practice:
- Chatt = 2 days of upvas
- Attham = 3 days of upvas
- These are done with spiritual discipline, not merely as physical fasting.
During such tapasya, one should focus on:
- Samayik
- Pratikraman
- Svadhyay
- Japa of Navkar Mantra
- Forgiveness, humility, and control over passions
Spiritual Understanding
The purpose of Chatt Attham Tapasya is not only to avoid food, but to reduce attachment to the body and senses. In Jain Dharma, tapasya helps in:
- Weakening karmic bondage
- Increasing self-control
- Purifying thoughts, speech, and actions
- Developing vairagya, or detachment
Takeaway
Chatt Attham Tapasya is a sacred Jain austerity involving disciplined fasting, usually connected with two-day and three-day upvas, performed with inner purity, devotion, and guidance from a Guru.