Partikram step by step
Certainly! In Jainism, Pratikraman (sometimes spelled Partikraman or Pratikram) is a significant spiritual practice, especially observed by both Shravakas (lay followers) and Sadhus/Sadhvis (monks/nuns). It is a process of reflection, repentance, and seeking forgiveness for transgressions of Jain ethical codes (vratas and samitis), performed daily (especially Samayik and Pratikraman), fortnightly (Pakkhi), or annually (Samvatsari).
Here is a step-by-step outline of the traditional Shravak (layperson) Pratikraman, particularly as observed by the Svetambara tradition. (The Digambara tradition has some differences in text and sequence, but the core principles are similar.)
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1. Preparation (Bhavanas)
- Cleanliness: Bathe or wash hands and feet; wear clean, simple clothes.
- Place: Choose a quiet, clean space.
- Samayik: Sit in a meditative posture (Padmasana or Ardhapadmasana) and recite the Samayik Sutra to mentally withdraw from worldly activities.
2. Namaskar (Prayer)
- Recitation of Navkar/Namokar Mantra: Bowing to the five supreme beings (Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu).
3. Iryavahiya Sutra (Confession of Transgressions While Walking)
- Acknowledging and repenting for any harm caused to living beings through movement during the day.
4. Pratikraman Proper (Introspection)
- Kritanuyoga: Recitation of Jain scriptures and reflection on ethical conduct.
- Alochana (Confession): Admitting one's faults and mistakes (knowingly or unknowingly committed).
- Pratyakhyan (Renunciation): Resolving to avoid those faults in the future.
5. Kayotsarga (Meditative Detachment)
- Practicing meditative detachment from the body and focusing on the soul.
- Recitation of the Logassa Sutra and other Kayotsarga prayers.
6. Khamat Khamna (Seeking Forgiveness)
- Recite “Michhami Dukkadam” (Svetambara) or “Khamemi Savve Jiva” (Digambara) to ask forgiveness from all living beings and others for any harm caused.
7. Pratyakhyan (Renewal of Vows)
- Reaffirming the Jain vows (vratas) and making resolutions for the future.
8. Manglik & Concluding Prayers
- Reciting Manglik Sutra and other auspicious benedictions.
- Ending with prayers for the well-being of all, universal friendship, and spiritual upliftment.
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Summary Table
| Step | Purpose | |----------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------| | Preparation | Cleanliness, mental readiness, setup | | Namaskar | Homage to the Panch Parmesthi | | Iryavahiya Sutra | Repentance for harm caused during movement | | Pratikraman Proper | Introspection, confession, resolve | | Kayotsarga | Meditative detachment, focus on soul | | Khamat Khamna | Seeking forgiveness from all beings | | Pratyakhyan | Reaffirming/resolving ethical conduct | | Manglik & Concluding Prayers| Universal well-being, auspicious ending |
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Note:
- The actual Pratikraman ceremony involves the recitation of specific sutras and prayers, often in Prakrit or Sanskrit.
- During Paryushan (the festival of forgiveness), the annual Samvatsari Pratikraman is especially significant.
- Many Jain communities provide booklets or guides with the full text and translation of the Pratikraman ritual.
If you need the exact sutras or a more detailed version for a specific Jain sect (Svetambara or Digambara), please let me know!