Why do we dont eat green vegetables only on tithis?

In Jainism, the practice of not eating green vegetables on certain days, known as tithis (specific lunar days in the Jain calendar), is rooted in the principles of ahimsa (non-violence) and minimizing harm to living beings.

Here’s why:

1. Increased Life Activity: On tithis such as Ashtami (8th day), Chaturdashi (14th day), and Poonam (full moon), it is believed that the life force or prana in plants and vegetables is at its peak. Plucking and consuming them on these days causes more harm to microorganisms and plant life.

1. Reducing Violence: By abstaining from green vegetables, and sometimes even root vegetables and certain other foods, Jains strive to reduce violence towards living beings, as green and leafy vegetables are thought to host more tiny organisms.

1. Traditional Observance: Jain scriptures and traditions recommend these restrictions as a form of spiritual discipline (vrat), helping practitioners cultivate self-control and mindfulness about the impact of their dietary choices.

1. Scriptural Basis: The practice is mentioned in Jain texts and observed particularly by Shwetambar Jains, as part of their monthly rituals to purify themselves and progress spiritually.

Summary: Jains avoid eating green vegetables on tithis to minimize violence to living beings, as these days are considered times of greater life activity in plants. This observance helps uphold the core Jain principle of non-violence (ahimsa) and spiritual discipline.