Pratikraman means “returning” from atikraman (transgressions). We do it to purify the soul and realign our conduct with Jain vows.

• Repentance and forgiveness: We openly accept faults done by mind, speech, and body—knowingly or unknowingly—and ask forgiveness from all living beings. This weakens karmic bondage and calms kashay (anger, pride, deceit, greed).
• Self‑reflection on vows: As shravaks, we review lapses against the five anuvrats (ahimsa, satya, asteya, brahmacharya, aparigraha) and resolve not to repeat them (pratyakhyan).
• Cultivating equanimity: Through avashyaks like samayik, alochana (confession), kayotsarga, and pratyakhyan, we steady the mind and move toward right conduct.
• Regular discipline: Ideally done twice daily—Raisi (morning) for night’s lapses and Devasi (evening) for day’s lapses. If not possible, do Pakshik (fortnightly), Choumasi (quarterly), and at least Samvatsari (yearly) during Paryushan.

Tradition notes

• Shwetambar: Emphasis on Samvatsari Pratikraman during Paryushan (8 days); “Micchhāmi Dukkaḍaṃ” is commonly said on Samvatsari.
• Digambar: Parallel focus in Das Lakshan Parva (10 days) and Kshamavani (forgiveness) day; core purpose and spirit of repentance and vow‑renewal are the same.

In essence, Pratikraman is the daily cleansing of karma through honest self‑audit, confession, forgiveness, and fresh resolve—so the soul returns toward its pure state.