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In Jainism, why do people observe 'Athai Upwas'? What do they gain by doing it? What is the purpose or motive behind doing this fast?
Athai Upwas means observing an eight‑day fast as a Jain austerity (tapa). It is a voluntary, disciplined vrata done for inner purification, not for worldly gain.
Why it is observed
- To purify karma (nirjarā): Fasting with right faith and calmness weakens passions (kashāya) and helps shed karmas, especially mohaniya (deluding) karma. This is the core Jain purpose of tapa.
- To stop new bondage (samvar): Restraining senses, speech, and activity during a fast reduces attachment/aversion, so fewer new karmas bind.
- To strengthen self‑discipline: It deepens saiyam (self‑control), aparigraha (non‑possession), and steadiness in sāmāyik, pratikraman, svādhyāy and dhyān.
- To cultivate equanimity and forgiveness: The mind becomes lighter and more inward‑turned, helping true kshamā, maitri, and humility.
- To honor Paryushan/Das‑Lakshan spirit: Many undertake Athai during these festivals to intensify repentance (ālochana–pratikraman) and scriptural study.
What is gained (according to Jain Dharma)
- Shedding of karmas and uplift of the soul when performed with samyak‑bhāva.
- Firmer vows and restraint over taste and cravings; greater inner peace.
- Punya (spiritual merit) when observed with ahiṁsā, truthfulness, and devotion.
How it is practiced (in brief)
- External tapa: anashana (no food). According to capacity, some take only boiled, filtered water in permitted times; some do nirjal (no water). Alongside, one limits sleep, avoids entertainment, and stays in svādhyāy, pratikraman, and meditation.
- Internal tapa: repentance, humility, service, scripture study, kāyotsarga, and dhyān throughout the eight days.
Tradition notes
- Shwetāmbara: Athai is often undertaken during the 8 days of Paryushan; boiled water is generally taken in daylight hours as per local maryādā.
- Digambara: Many observe extended upavās during Daś‑Lakshan; water rules are stricter in some lineages (e.g., only in daylight, sometimes complete nirjal). Wordings of pachkhan and daily conduct may differ by sect and guru‑paramparā.
Scriptural basis (essence)
- Tapa is prescribed as a means to samvar and nirjarā; fasting (anashana) is one of the six external austerities, and repentance, study, meditation, etc., are the internal austerities. The purpose is purification leading toward liberation (moksha).
Important cautions
- Undertake Athai only with proper pachkhan, health suitability, and under guidance. Maintain ahiṁsā toward all living beings and yourself; do not fast with pride, anger, or rivalry—these destroy the merit.
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