Athai ka sham ka pachkan
In Jainism, "pachkan" (also spelled "pachkhan" or "pachhakhana") is a vow or resolve, often taken by lay followers (Shravaks and Shravikas) to restrict themselves from certain activities, mainly to support spiritual discipline and non-violence (ahimsa).
"Athai" refers to an eight-day fasting period (also called "Aththai Tap" or "Ashtanhika Parva"). During this period, Jains observe greater spiritual discipline. "Sham" means evening, so "Athai ka sham ka pachkan" refers to the evening resolution or vow taken during the eight-day fast.
Typical Athai Sham ka Pachkan
The evening pachkan during Athai generally includes:
- Restricting intake: After sunset, one resolves not to eat, drink or consume anything until the next morning.
- Renunciation: Making a vow to abstain from certain activities (e.g., not to eat after sunset, not to harm any living beings, not to engage in certain types of behavior).
- Intention: It is taken for spiritual upliftment, penance, and purification.
A Sample Athai Sham ka Pachkan (in Hindi):
"Mein falan samay se kal ke suryoday tak, jal, anaj, phal, dudh, dahi, adhi kuch bhi nahi loonga/loongi. Mein raatri mein kuch bhi nahi loonga/loongi. Mein ahimsa, satya, asteya, brahmacharya, aparigraha ka palan karoonga/karoongi. Michhami Dukkadam."
(Translation: From this time until sunrise tomorrow, I will not consume water, grains, fruit, milk, yogurt, or anything else. I will not take anything at night. I will observe non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession. I seek forgiveness for any transgressions.)
How to Take the Pachkan
- Sit in a calm place after sunset.
- Recite the pachkan aloud (or in your mind) with full resolve.
- Bow to the Tirthankaras, seek forgiveness (Michhami Dukkadam), and reaffirm your spiritual goals.
Note: The exact wording and rules may vary by Jain sect (Shwetambar, Digambar) and family tradition. Please consult your local Jain center or a knowledgeable elder for the precise pachkan in your tradition.
If you want the pachkan text in a specific language or for a specific Jain sect, please specify!