Santhara (Sallekhana) is a very sacred vow in Jain Dharma. The formal Pachchhakkhan (taking the vow) must be given by a Jain Acharya/Upadhyay/Sadhu–Sadhvi, or by a learned Pandit under their authority. The exact words differ by tradition and guru-parampara. Please do not perform a formal Santhara Pachchhakkhan without direct guidance.

What you can safely recite with the family until the Guru arrives

• Namokar Mantra:

“Namo Arihantānam, Namo Siddhānam, Namo Āyariyānam, Namo Uvajjhāyānam, Namo Loe Savva Sāhūnam.”

• Universal forgiveness:

“Khamemi savva jīvā, savve jīvā khamantu me; mettī me savva bhūesu, veram majjha na kenai.”

• Michhami Dukkadam.

A simple, interim sankalp (not a substitute for formal Pachchhakkhan) You may say gently, in the presence of the person and with maitri-bhāvanā: “Namostu. Aaj ke din, samyak-darshan-bhāvanā ke saath, kashay kshaya aur ātmā-śuddhi ke uddeshya se, jeev-dayā aur ahiṃsā ka sampūrṇ palan karte hue, ahar-vihar guru-agnya ke anusar simit rakhenge. Sab ke prati kshamā-bhāvanā rakhte hain. Michhami Dukkadam.” This is only a devotional support, not the formal vow.

Notes by tradition

• Shvetāmbara and Digambara both accept Sallekhana/Santhara, but the formal Pachchhakkhan wording and procedure are given by the respective Acharyas and texts of their traditions. Please follow only your own tradition’s guidance.

Essential points to remember

• Always take the Pachchhakkhan from a qualified Guru when possible.
• Maintain maitri (friendliness), pramod (appreciation), karuṇā (compassion), and madhyasthata (equanimity).
• Keep the environment peaceful; recite Namokar Mantra softly; avoid any form of hiṃsā.
• If medical or legal formalities are involved, handle them with truthfulness and non-violence, and as per your Guru’s guidance.

If you specifically need the exact Pachchhakkhan text for your tradition, please obtain it directly from your Acharya/Sangh so it is precise and authorized.