What to give when we go to ask shata for some tapasvi?
In Jain tradition, going to “ask śatā” for a tapasvī is mainly about bhāv-bhakti (humble devotion) and vinay (respect). Keep it simple, non-showy, and within maryādā. You are not “buying” anything; you are requesting the chance to serve or congratulate the tapasvī for their spiritual effort.
What you may take or offer (as per local maryādā):
- Namaskār and recitation of Navkār Mantra first; do vandan with humility.
- A small, simple ādarniya item: coconut (śrīphal), a flower, saffron-tilak with akṣat. Avoid extravagance.
- Offer seva for parṇā (the fast-ending) exactly as per the tapasvī’s niyam:
- Dān (if appropriate in your saṅgh): give toward Jain causes like jñān-dān (scriptures/books), jeevdayā, sādhu–sādhvī upkār, panjarāpol, etc., preferably in the name of the tapasvī. Avoid showy gifts.
- If it is a sādhu/sādhvī tapas: do not offer money or personal gifts. Follow the order’s maryādā; any bhikṣā/seva must be arranged through the saṅgh as permitted.
What to avoid
- Loud celebration, wasteful decoration, plastic/garlands that harm ahiṁsā, fireworks, or photography that disturbs.
- Forcing a menu or insisting on your preference.
- Cash/gifts that promote parigraha (accumulation), or items the tapasvī cannot use.
Simple way to ask śatā (example words)
- Gujarati: “Amē bhāvthī śatā māṅgvā āvyā chīē. Jo anumati āpō tō amnē parṇā/sevā nō avasar āpō.”
- Hindi: “Ham bhāv se śatā māngne āye hain. Yadi āp anumati den, to hameṁ parṇā/sevā kā avasar dijiye.”
Note on traditions
- Śvetāmbara (Mūrtipūjak, Sthānakvāsī, Terāpaṇth) and Digambara communities may have different local customs for offerings and parṇā; always follow your local saṅgh’s maryādā and the tapasvī’s guru’s guidance. The core principles are the same: ahiṁsā, aparigraha, and vinay.
Essence
- The best “gift” is humble respect and appropriate seva aligned with maryādā. Keep it small, pure, and beneficial to dharma.