In Jainism, aparigraha means non-possessiveness or non-attachment to material things, and it is one of the five main vows (vratas) for both householders (shravakas/shravikas) and ascetics. While monks and nuns observe aparigraha in its strictest form (owning almost nothing), householders practice it with moderation according to their life circumstances.

Here’s how a shravaka (lay follower) can practice aparigraha:

1. Set Limits on Possessions

• Jain scriptures advise householders to set a limit (parimaan) on the amount of wealth, property, clothes, food, and other belongings they own.
• Regularly review and reduce these limits as far as possible.

2. Share with Others

• Practice generosity (daana) by giving to those in need: charity, donations to Jain temples, and supporting monks/nuns.

3. Control Desires

• Avoid excessive desire for new possessions, luxuries, or hoarding wealth.
• Be content (santosh) with what you have.

4. Mindful Consumption

• Buy and use only what is necessary for living, not for status or indulgence.
• Avoid wastefulness.

5. Awareness and Detachment

• Remind yourself that material things are temporary and can be lost at any time.
• Cultivate inner detachment even while using possessions.

6. Limit Business and Occupation

• Avoid professions that lead to excessive accumulation or cause harm to others or nature.
• Practice honesty in all transactions.

7. Spiritual Reflection

• Regularly reflect on the dangers of attachment to wealth and possessions.
• Meditate on the teachings of Jain Tirthankaras regarding aparigraha.

Scriptural References

• The Tattvartha Sutra and Uttaradhyayana Sutra both guide laypersons to gradually reduce their attachments.
• Twelve Vows of a Shravaka: Four of the twelve minor vows (anuvratas) relate to aparigraha, specifically the parigraha-parimana vrata (limiting possessions).

Example Practice

A shravaka might decide, “I will own no more than five sets of clothes, keep only essential kitchen utensils, and donate surplus to charity every six months.”

In summary: Aparigraha for a shravaka means consciously setting limits on possessions, reducing attachment to material things, sharing with others, and living a simple, contented life in accordance with Jain teachings.