Aekashan (Ekashana) Vidhi means the proper Jain method of observing “ekashana” — taking only one meal in one sitting in the daytime. It is a layperson’s vrata (discipline) followed to practice self-control, reduce himsa, and support samayik, pratikraman, and study.

What it includes (simple steps)

• Sankalp/Pachchakkhan: Take a clear vow before sunrise (or before the meal if you are doing only ekashana), stating you will eat once, in one sitting, by daylight, with care and without attachment.
• Before the meal: Clean and inspect the eating place for tiny life, sit on a patla/chauki and do not move it once seated, maintain mindfulness and silence if possible.
• During the meal:

- One time only, in one place, without getting up; no tasting beforehand; no re-serving once you finish. - Accept simple food without special demands; avoid waste; keep carefulness (apramatta) to prevent harm to living beings. - Water: in strict ekashana, drink only boiled/filtered water during the meal and not before/after.

• After the meal: Offer forgiveness and gratitude (anumodana), avoid eating again that day; in the evening do pratikraman.

Tradition notes

• Shvetambar and Digambar both accept ekashana. Minor practice details can differ:

- Water discipline is often stricter in Digambar (only during the meal; many stop water after noon). Shvetambar household practice commonly allows boiled/filtered water in daylight, but strict ekashana keeps it only with the meal. - Festival contexts differ (Paryushan for Shvetambar, Das Lakshan for Digambar), but the core idea is the same: one meal, one sitting, with great care.

Spiritual intent

• To lessen attachment (raga), cultivate restraint (samyam), protect life (ahimsa), and reduce karmic bondage by simplicity in food and careful conduct.

For short, practical guides from JainKnowledge:

• Ekasanu–Biyasanu pachchakkhan (vow):
• Ekashana vs. Biyashana (differences):
• When to drink water in ekashana:
• 24 Tirthankara remembrance often done before ekashana: