Answer

Iriyavahi Sutra is a Jain repentance sutra recited to ask forgiveness for any violence or harm caused while walking, moving, sitting, standing, or doing daily activities.

Its main meaning is:

“While moving about, if I have knowingly or unknowingly harmed any living being, I ask for forgiveness and repent for that fault.”

Explanation

In Jain Dharma, even small living beings such as insects, tiny organisms, and invisible life forms are respected. While walking or moving, a person may unintentionally harm living beings.

The Iriyavahi Sutra is recited to confess and repent for such harm caused through activities like:

• Walking
• Standing
• Sitting
• Moving the body
• Touching the ground
• Careless physical actions

Through this sutra, one expresses humility and awareness, saying that if any living beings were hurt, crushed, disturbed, or killed, one sincerely repents.

Spiritual Understanding

The sutra teaches the Jain principle of Ahimsa, non-violence. It reminds us that violence is not only intentional harm but can also happen through carelessness.

By reciting Iriyavahi Sutra, a Jain seeks to:

• Purify the mind
• Reduce carelessness
• Develop compassion for all living beings
• Accept responsibility for one’s actions
• Strengthen awareness in daily life

Takeaway

Iriyavahi Sutra is a prayer of repentance for harm caused to living beings during movement and daily activities. It deepens awareness, humility, and commitment to Ahimsa.