Devasi Pratikraman and sutra to be completed before sunset
Answer
In Jain Dharma, Devasi Pratikraman is traditionally done in the evening, for reflecting on and repenting for faults committed during the day.
Ideally, Devasi Pratikraman should be completed before sunset, because it relates to the conduct of the daytime period.
Sutras Generally Included
The exact order and sutras may vary slightly by tradition, but Devasi Pratikraman commonly includes important sutras such as:
- Navkar Mantra
- Iriyavahiya Sutra
- Tassa Uttari Sutra
- Annattha Sutra
- Logassa Sutra
- Karemi Bhante Sutra
- Ichchhami Khamasamano
- Atichar Alochana related to vows and daily conduct
- Micchami Dukkadam
Important Note
The full Devasi Pratikraman text, sequence, and pronunciation should be learned from a knowledgeable Jain guru, sadhu-sadhvi, or trusted traditional source, because accuracy in sutra recitation is very important.
Spiritual Understanding
Devasi Pratikraman is not only a ritual recitation. Its main purpose is:
- To remember mistakes committed knowingly or unknowingly
- To ask forgiveness
- To reduce attachment, anger, pride, deceit, and greed
- To renew one’s commitment to careful and non-violent living
Takeaway
Devasi Pratikraman should be done with humility, awareness, and repentance, and traditionally it is best completed before sunset.