Answer

Paryushan started as a sacred Jain period for deep spiritual reflection, self-discipline, repentance, forgiveness, and purification of the soul.

Traditionally, it is connected with the rainy season, when Jain monks and nuns stop traveling and stay in one place. During this time, householders get a special opportunity to listen to Dharma, practice austerity, study scriptures, and purify their conduct.

Explanation

In ancient times, Jain monks and nuns wandered from place to place for most of the year. But during the rainy season, travel could harm countless small living beings that become more active in the wet ground, water, and vegetation.

So, during this period, they would stay in one place. This stay is traditionally called Chaturmas.

Paryushan became the most important spiritual period within this time because it encourages Jains to:

• Practice ahimsa more carefully
• Do pratikraman and ask forgiveness for mistakes
• Observe fasting and other tapasya
• Listen to Jain teachings and scriptures
• Reduce attachment, anger, pride, deceit, and greed
• Seek and give forgiveness through Michchhami Dukkadam

Spiritual Understanding

The purpose of Paryushan is not just ritual. Its deeper meaning is to come closer to the true nature of the soul.

The word Paryushan is often understood as “staying closer to the soul” or “abiding in the self.” It reminds us to turn inward, examine our actions, purify our thoughts, and strengthen the path of right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.

Takeaway

Paryushan started as a sacred time during the rainy season when Jain monks stayed in one place, and laypeople used that opportunity for repentance, forgiveness, study, fasting, and inner purification. Its main purpose is spiritual upliftment and cleansing of karma.