Answer

In Jain Dharma, Pakshal is not meant to be a wasteful act. It is a devotional ritual performed with bhakti, humility, and reverence toward the Arihant Bhagwan.

However, Jain principles also teach aparigraha and carefulness in the use of resources. So Pakshal should be done with proper understanding, moderation, and without excess.

Explanation

Pakshal is the ceremonial bathing of the Jin pratima, usually with water and sometimes with other pure substances such as milk, depending on tradition.

Its purpose is not to “clean” Bhagwan in an ordinary sense. The Jin idol represents the perfected soul — free from attachment, aversion, karma, and worldly impurity. Pakshal is mainly for the devotee’s inner purification.

It reminds us:

• to wash away our own passions like anger, ego, deceit, and greed,
• to cultivate humility,
• to offer our best with devotion,
• to remember the purity of the Siddha state.

At the same time, if someone uses large quantities of water, milk, or other substances merely for show, pride, or display, that goes against the spirit of Jain Dharma.

Spiritual Understanding

Jain Dharma places great importance on bhav — the inner intention.

A small, sincere Pakshal done with reverence is spiritually more meaningful than a large ritual done with ego or carelessness.

From the Jain viewpoint:

• Devotion is important.
• Non-wastefulness is also important.
• Ritual should support inner purity, not become external display.

So the ideal approach is to perform Pakshal respectfully, using only what is necessary and avoiding extravagance.

Takeaway

Pakshal itself is not wasteful when done with devotion and moderation. But excessive use of water, milk, or materials without spiritual awareness can become wasteful and contrary to Jain values. The true Pakshal is the purification of one’s own soul.