Paryushana

Definition

Paryushana is an important Jain festival that emphasizes spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and forgiveness, typically observed for eight days. It is a time for Jains to engage in prayer, meditation, and communal gatherings, highlighting the core values of non-violence and compassion, which are fundamental to Jain beliefs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Paryushana usually takes place in the month of Bhadrapada (August-September) according to the lunar calendar and lasts for eight days.
2. During Paryushana, Jains intensify their spiritual practices by engaging in fasting, prayer, and scriptural readings to purify their souls.
3. The festival culminates in a day known as 'Samvatsari,' which is dedicated to seeking forgiveness from all beings for any harm caused during the past year.
4. Paryushana highlights the Jain principle of 'ahimsa' (non-violence), encouraging participants to avoid harm to any living being and cultivate compassion.
5. It is customary for Jains to reflect on their deeds and make resolutions for self-improvement during this spiritually significant time.

Review Questions

• How does Paryushana reflect the principles of Jainism in its practices and observances?
  • Paryushana embodies the core principles of Jainism through its emphasis on forgiveness, non-violence, and self-reflection. The festival encourages Jains to seek forgiveness from others, promoting a spirit of compassion while also reflecting on their own actions over the past year. Through rituals such as fasting, meditation, and communal prayers, practitioners deepen their understanding of ahimsa and reinforce their commitment to spiritual growth.
• In what ways do Jains prepare for Paryushana, and what specific rituals are involved in the celebration?
  • Preparation for Paryushana often involves personal reflection, setting intentions for the festival, and increasing spiritual practices. Rituals during the celebration include fasting, attending special prayers at temples, engaging in scriptural study, and participating in community gatherings. Many Jains also practice Samayika, aiming for mental purity and calmness throughout the festival, thus enhancing their connection to Jain teachings.
• Evaluate the significance of Paryushana in shaping Jain identity and community practices in contemporary society.
  • Paryushana plays a crucial role in reinforcing Jain identity by fostering a sense of community among practitioners and emphasizing shared beliefs. In contemporary society, this festival allows Jains to connect with their heritage while adapting rituals to modern contexts. The focus on forgiveness not only enriches personal relationships but also encourages broader societal values of compassion and non-violence, making Paryushana a vital aspect of both individual spirituality and communal cohesion within Jain culture.

Related terms

Forgiveness: A key theme during Paryushana, where individuals seek to forgive others and ask for forgiveness to purify their souls and strengthen their spiritual commitments.

Samayika: A practice during Paryushana where Jains meditate and strive for a state of equanimity, often through rituals that promote peace and self-reflection.

Tirthankara: Spiritual teachers in Jainism who have attained liberation and whose teachings guide the followers, often revered during Paryushana through prayers and stories.