Answer

In Jain practice, Tivihar and Chovihar are food-related vows taken for a specific period, especially during fasting or daily religious discipline.

• Tivihar means giving up all food and drinks, but boiled water is allowed during the permitted time.
• Chovihar means giving up all food and all drinks, including water.

Explanation

The word “vihar” here refers to types of intake. Traditionally, intake is understood in four categories:

• Ashan – solid food
• Pan – drinks
• Khadim – eatables like fruits, dry snacks, etc.
• Swadim – taste-based items like mouth fresheners, spices, etc.

Tivihar means abstaining from three types of intake, while water is permitted according to the rules of the vow.

Chovihar means abstaining from all four types of intake, including water.

Spiritual Understanding

Both practices help in:

• Self-control
• Reduction of attachment to taste
• Discipline of the body and mind
• Supporting ahimsa by limiting consumption

Takeaway

Tivihar = No food, but boiled water allowed.
Chovihar = No food and no water.