Answer

In Jain Dharma, during Paryushan, it is best to avoid masturbation.

Paryushan is a sacred time for self-control, purity, repentance, forgiveness, and spiritual upliftment. Jain conduct encourages control over sensual desires, especially during holy days.

Explanation

Masturbation is connected with sexual desire and attachment to bodily pleasure. Jain Dharma teaches that spiritual progress comes through reducing passions such as:

• Rāga — attachment
• Kāma — sensual desire
• Moha — delusion
• Asaṃyama — lack of self-restraint

During Paryushan, many Jains observe extra discipline through:

• Fasting or dietary restraint
• Pratikraman
• Forgiveness and repentance
• Study of Dharma
• Brahmacharya as much as possible

So, avoiding masturbation during Paryushan supports the spirit of the festival.

Spiritual Understanding

The goal is not to feel shame, but to practice self-awareness and restraint. If you have already done it, do not fall into guilt. Instead:

• Accept it honestly
• Do inner repentance
• Try to be more mindful going forward
• Focus on Pratikraman, forgiveness, and better conduct

Jain Dharma emphasizes purification of the soul, not self-hatred.

Takeaway

During Paryushan, you should try to avoid masturbation and practice greater brahmacharya, self-control, and purity of thoughts. If you slip, repent sincerely and continue your spiritual effort with humility.