Answer

In Jain Dharma, not everyone is allowed to give āhār to sādhus or sādhvīs in every situation. Giving āhār is governed by strict rules of purity, eligibility, intention, and discipline.

If you mean “they” as in certain people are not allowed to give āhār, then yes—there can be restrictions depending on Jain tradition, conduct rules, and the specific circumstances.

Explanation

Āhār-dān to Jain monks and nuns is not just ordinary food-giving. It is a sacred act and must be done according to proper maryādā.

Some general reasons a person may not be allowed to give āhār include:

• The food was specially prepared after knowing the monk/nun would come.
• The food contains prohibited items according to Jain rules.
• The giver does not follow required purity or discipline at that time.
• The āhār involves violence, carelessness, or improper preparation.
• The monk or nun’s own rules do not permit accepting from that situation.
• There are tradition-specific restrictions, such as rules followed in Śvetāmbara, Digambara, Sthānakavāsī, Terāpanthī, or other Jain lineages.

So, even if a person has devotion, the monk or nun may still not accept āhār if the conditions are not proper.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, āhār-dān is meaningful only when it supports:

• Ahimsā — non-violence
• Saṃyam — restraint
• Śuddhi — purity
• Vairāgya — detachment

The purpose is not merely to feed the monk or nun, but to support their spiritual discipline without creating attachment, expectation, or harm.

Takeaway

Yes, some people or situations may be restricted from giving āhār. In Jain Dharma, āhār-dān must be done with proper purity, rules, and humility—not merely with emotion or convenience.