Answer

In Jain Dharma, Atham usually means a form of tapasya in which a person fasts for three continuous days.

During Atham, one generally gives up food for three days, and depending on one’s capacity and tradition, may also follow rules regarding water.

Explanation

The word Atham is commonly used in Jain practice for a 3-day fast. It is considered an external austerity connected with self-control, discipline, and purification of karmas.

People may do Atham:

• During Paryushan or other holy days
• As a personal spiritual vow
• For strengthening restraint over the body and senses
• For devotion, repentance, and inner purification

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, fasting is not merely about not eating. Its deeper purpose is to reduce attachment to the body, control desires, practice equanimity, and focus more on the soul.

A true Atham should be done with:

• Right faith
• Calmness
• Forgiveness
• Less anger, pride, deceit, and greed
• More prayer, svadhyay, and meditation

Takeaway

Atham means a three-day Jain fast, practiced as tapasya for self-control, karmic purification, and spiritual progress.