What does one understand on the last day of payushan
Answer
On the last day of Paryushan, one mainly understands the importance of forgiveness, repentance, humility, and purification of the soul.
For Śvetāmbara Jains, the last day is commonly observed as Samvatsari, the great day of forgiveness. On this day, Jains say:
Michhami Dukkadam
which means: “If I have caused you any harm knowingly or unknowingly, through thought, word, or action, I ask for forgiveness.”
Explanation
The last day of Paryushan teaches that spiritual progress is not only about fasting or rituals, but about cleansing the inner self.
A person reflects on:
- Where did I hurt others?
- Where did anger, ego, deceit, or greed arise in me?
- How can I reduce attachment and hatred?
- How can I live with more compassion and self-control?
Through Pratikraman, one repents for mistakes and resolves to become more careful in future conduct.
Spiritual Understanding
The deeper understanding of the last day is:
- No soul is my enemy.
- Forgiveness is strength, not weakness.
- Hurting others binds karma.
- Letting go of anger purifies the soul.
- True religion begins with inner change.
It is a day to remove bitterness from the heart and develop kshama bhav — the feeling of forgiveness.
Takeaway
The last day of Paryushan teaches us to ask forgiveness, forgive others, and begin again with a cleaner heart and a more peaceful soul.
Michhami Dukkadam.