Answer

Chowvihaar means taking a vow to completely stop eating and drinking after a chosen time, usually before sunset, until the next morning.

It includes giving up:

• Food
• Water
• Milk
• Juice
• Any kind of drink or edible item

Process of Chowvihaar

• 1. Finish food and water before the set time
  Usually, this is done before sunset or before the time decided according to Jain practice.
• 2. Clean the mouth properly
  After finishing, rinse the mouth so that no food particles remain.
• 3. Take the vow mentally or verbally
  With sincerity, decide that you will not eat or drink anything until the next morning.
• 4. Say “Chowvihaar” or take Pachchakkhan
  Traditionally, one may take Pachchakkhan from a sadhu/sadhviji if available, or sincerely take the vow oneself according to family tradition.
• 5. Maintain awareness
  After Chowvihaar, avoid tasting, sipping, or consuming anything.
• 6. Break the vow properly in the morning
  The next day, after the appropriate time, one may take boiled and cooled water or suitable food according to one’s practice.

Spiritual Understanding

Chowvihaar helps in:

• Reducing attachment to taste and food
• Practicing self-control
• Avoiding harm to subtle living beings, especially at night
• Supporting discipline, simplicity, and awareness

Takeaway

Chowvihaar is not just “not eating at night.” It is a mindful Jain vow of restraint, purity, and compassion, practiced with devotion and self-discipline.