Why do we eat dinner before sunset
In Jainism, eating dinner before sunset is a traditional practice rooted in the principle of ahimsa (non-violence). After sunset, it becomes difficult to see tiny living beings that may be present in food or water. Consuming food after dark increases the risk of inadvertently harming these microorganisms, which goes against the core Jain value of minimizing harm to all forms of life.
Additionally, digestion is believed to be better during daylight hours when the body's natural energies are at their peak. Eating before sunset supports both physical health and spiritual discipline by fostering mindfulness, self-control, and compassion for all living beings.
Thus, Jains observe this practice as a way to uphold non-violence, promote health, and maintain spiritual purity.