Answer

In Jain Dharma, it is better not to think, “I will knowingly do something today and do Pratikraman tomorrow.”

Pratikraman is not meant to become permission for intentional wrongdoing. It is meant for sincere repentance, awareness, self-restraint, and purification.

Explanation

Masturbation is connected with sensual desire and attachment to the body. In Jain ethics, especially around Samvatsari, one tries to reduce passions such as:

• kām — sensual desire
• rāg — attachment
• kaṣāy — inner passions
• asamyam — lack of self-restraint

Samvatsari Pratikraman is a very sacred occasion for asking forgiveness, cleansing past faults, and renewing commitment to better conduct. If a person knowingly does an act thinking, “I will repent later,” the repentance becomes weaker because the intention was not pure.

Spiritual Understanding

Jain Dharma does not ask you to hate yourself or feel hopeless. If you are struggling with desire, observe it calmly and try to practice restraint step by step.

A better approach today would be:

• pause and take a few deep breaths
• recite Navkar Mantra with focus
• avoid triggering thoughts or content
• engage in seva, study, or preparation for Samvatsari
• make a sincere inner resolve: “I will try to reduce passions and live with more awareness.”

If you still make a mistake, do Pratikraman sincerely, without self-hatred, and with a genuine wish not to repeat it.

Takeaway

Do not use Pratikraman as a future excuse. Use Samvatsari as a chance to strengthen self-control, purity of intention, and sincere forgiveness.