Answer

In Jain Pratikraman, the 99 Atichar means the 99 possible transgressions or faults related to the vows and spiritual discipline of a Jain layperson.

The word Atichar means a partial violation, carelessness, or overstepping of a vow.

Explanation

During Pratikraman, one reflects on mistakes committed knowingly or unknowingly and asks forgiveness for them.

For a Jain layperson, the 99 Atichar are connected mainly with:

• 5 Anuvrat – small vows
• 3 Gunvrat – supporting vows
• 4 Shikshavrat – disciplinary vows
• Other faults connected with right conduct and religious discipline

These Atichar include mistakes such as:

• Carelessness in non-violence
• Speaking untruth or misleading words
• Taking what is not properly given
• Improper conduct related to celibacy or restraint
• Excessive attachment to possessions
• Carelessness in limiting travel, consumption, and worldly activities
• Faults in devotional practices, charity, and spiritual discipline

Spiritual Understanding

The purpose of remembering the 99 Atichar is not to create fear, but to develop:

• Awareness of one’s conduct
• Humility by accepting mistakes
• Repentance through inner purification
• Carefulness so the same faults are not repeated

In Pratikraman, a person says in spirit:

“If I have committed any fault in my vows, discipline, thoughts, words, or actions, I repent and seek forgiveness.”

Takeaway

The 99 Atichar in Pratikraman are a detailed reminder of the ways a layperson may weaken or partially break Jain vows. Reflecting on them helps purify the soul and strengthens the practice of Samyak Charitra — right conduct.