Jain dharma teaches that seeking forgiveness (kshama) is a key practice to purify the mind and maintain harmony with all living beings.

How to ask for forgiveness

• Decide to do it with a sincere intention to hurt no one again.
• Reflect on your actions with humility (man, vachan, kaya—mind, speech, body).
• Ask forgiveness from every being you may have harmed, knowingly or unknowingly, including people you know, strangers, and even small beings like insects (as far as you can recall).
• If possible, perform a formal Pratikraman (confession and reflection) or a daily/periodic reflection to renew your commitment to ahimsa.
• End with a universal plea: may all beings forgive me.

Common phrases you can use

• Michchhami Dukkadam (or Michhami Dukkha-dam): “May I be forgiven for any harm I have caused you, knowingly or unknowingly.”
• I seek forgiveness from you for any hurt I may have caused by my thoughts, words, or actions.
• If I have harmed you, intentionally or by mistake, please forgive me.

Pratikraman basics (brief)

• Bow respectfully to the Tirthankaras, Gurus, and your Samaj.
• Confess specific faults (in your own words) and resolve not to repeat them.
• Request forgiveness from all living beings you may have harmed.
• Close with a vow to practice ahimsa more strictly.

Notes and variations

• Both Digambar and Shwetambar communities use the spirit of Michchhami Dukkadam, though exact phrasing and ritual details may vary regionally.
• The essence is sincere remorse, humility, and a clear intention to avoid repeating the harm in the future.

If you’d like, I can provide a simple, step-by-step wording for a personal request for forgiveness in your language or cultural context.