Answer

Day 1 of Dashalakshan Dharma is dedicated to Uttam Kshama, meaning supreme forgiveness.

A commonly told Jain story for Uttam Kshama is the story of Bhagwan Mahavir and Chandkaushik snake.

Story: Bhagwan Mahavir and Chandkaushik

Once, Bhagwan Mahavir was travelling through a forest while practicing deep meditation and complete non-violence. In that forest lived a very poisonous and angry snake named Chandkaushik. People were afraid of him because his bite could kill instantly.

When Bhagwan Mahavir came near, Chandkaushik became furious. He hissed loudly and bit Bhagwan Mahavir. But Bhagwan Mahavir remained completely calm. He did not become angry, afraid, or hateful.

Instead of reacting with violence, Bhagwan Mahavir looked at the snake with compassion and forgiveness. His peaceful presence touched Chandkaushik deeply. The snake realized the power of anger and violence, and his cruelty began to melt.

Bhagwan Mahavir’s forgiveness transformed Chandkaushik’s heart. The snake became peaceful and gave up his anger.

Meaning of Uttam Kshama

Uttam Kshama teaches us:

• Forgive those who hurt us.
• Do not keep anger in the heart.
• Do not take revenge.
• Remain calm even when others behave badly.
• Ask forgiveness from all living beings.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, anger binds karma and disturbs the soul. Forgiveness removes anger and makes the soul peaceful.

Bhagwan Mahavir showed that true strength is not in hurting others, but in staying calm, compassionate, and forgiving even when harmed.

Takeaway

On the first day of Dashalakshan Dharma, we practice Uttam Kshama by thinking:

“I forgive all living beings, and I ask forgiveness from all living beings.”