Answer

Both “Micchami Dukkadam” and “Khamat Khamna” are Jain expressions of forgiveness, but they are used slightly differently.

• Micchami Dukkadam means: “May my wrong actions be forgiven” or “If I have hurt you knowingly or unknowingly, may it be forgiven.”
• Khamat Khamna means: “I ask for forgiveness” or “Please forgive me.”

Difference

• Micchami Dukkadam is more of a sacred Jain phrase, traditionally said especially during Samvatsari and Paryushan.
• Khamat Khamna is a more direct and personal way of asking forgiveness.

What do you say?

You can say either:

• “Micchami Dukkadam”
• “Khamat Khamna”

A fuller way to say it is:

“Michhami Dukkadam. If I have hurt you by thought, word, or action, knowingly or unknowingly, please forgive me.”

Takeaway

In Jain Dharma, the main feeling is more important than the wording: humility, repentance, and forgiveness from the heart.