Asth maha sidhi tap

In Jainism, Ashta Maha Siddhi Tap refers to the "eight great austerities" (tapas) that are considered highly meritorious and are performed to purify the soul, destroy karmas, and progress on the spiritual path. These austerities are mentioned in Jain scriptures and are practiced by both ascetics and lay followers, though in varying degrees of intensity.

Here are the Ashta Maha Siddhi Taps (Eight Great Austerities):

1. Navaanna Tap (Navkarsi Tap)

Fasting until the time of Navkarsi (about 48 minutes after sunrise), then eating only once after performing the Navkar mantra and other rituals.

1. Bela Tap

Eating only once during the second part of the day (after Navkarsi time but before sunset), and fasting for the rest.

1. Chauvihar Upvas

Complete fasting for 24 hours, not even taking water after sunset or before sunrise.

1. Attham (Ashtami Upvas)

Fasting for three consecutive days and nights (72 hours) without food and sometimes without water.

1. Atthai (Ashtahnika Tap)

Fasting for eight consecutive days, especially observed during the auspicious "Ashtahnika Parva."

1. Masakshaman (Masakshaman Tap)

Fasting continuously for one full month.

1. Navapad Oli Tap (Ayambil Oli)

Observing Ayambil (eating once a day of tasteless, non-spiced, simple food) for nine days during the holy period of Navapad Oli.

1. Varsitap

Fasting for alternate days (Upvas) for a full year (about 180 fasts), ending with a grand celebration called Parna.

Purpose and Significance:

• These austerities help in self-control, minimizing attachment towards bodily comforts, and burning accumulated karmas.
• They are considered highly purifying and bring about spiritual upliftment.
• Practicing these taps requires strong determination, discipline, and faith, and is guided by the principles of ahimsa (non-violence) and aparigraha (non-possessiveness).

Note: Not all Jains are expected to perform all these austerities; they are voluntary and dependent on individual capacity and guidance from Jain monks and scholars.

If you wish to know more details about any particular tap, please let me know!