Answer

In Jainism, we do fasting to purify the soul, reduce attachment to the body and senses, and strengthen self-control.

Fasting is not only about avoiding food. Its deeper purpose is to reduce passions like anger, pride, deceit, greed, and to move closer to inner peace and spiritual discipline.

Explanation

Jain Dharma teaches that the soul becomes bound by karma due to attachment, desires, and passions. Fasting helps a person:

• Control desires and cravings
• Practice discipline over the body and mind
• Reduce attachment to taste and comfort
• Spend more time in prayer, meditation, repentance, and self-reflection
• Develop compassion by living with simplicity

A true Jain fast is not done for showing others, pride, or physical achievement. It is done with humility, inner purity, and spiritual awareness.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jainism, the body is temporary, but the soul is eternal. Fasting reminds us that we are not just the body. By willingly giving up food and comfort, we train ourselves to rise above worldly attachments.

During fasting, one should also try to observe:

• Peaceful thoughts
• Forgiveness
• Less speech and more awareness
• Prayer, samayik, pratikraman, or meditation
• Non-violence in thought, word, and action

Takeaway

Jain fasting is a sacred practice for self-control, karma purification, and spiritual progress. Its true value is not just in staying hungry, but in making the mind calmer, purer, and more detached.