SIGNIFICANCE OF COUPLETS ON PRAYUSHAN MAHAPARVA OF THE JAINS

Significance of Paryushan

Paryushan serves as a reminder to the followers of Jainism that the ultimate aim of life is not to seek pleasure or material success, but rather to pursue self-purification toward liberation. Each individual needs to engage in a process of renewal through acts of penance, self-control, reading holy texts, and forgiveness. 

For Jains, Paryushan holds significant meaning, representing a time for introspection by transcending ritual for deep self-examination, purification, and an inward journey. Grounded in the renunciatory traditions of Jainism, Paryushan signifies a distinct spiritual pathway where the recitation of sacred texts, chanting, penance, meditation, contemplation, devotion, and mindfulness elevate existence to a state of purity. It symbolizes the festival of awakening from a state of slumber, transitioning from the darkness of ignorance to the illumination of wisdom.

It is also an occasion to cultivate the ability to perceive others as extensions of oneself and recognizing the equality of all beings in relation to oneself.

The festival urges to foster bonds of friendship and goodwill with all creatures, while harboring animosity towards none. Thus, the core message of Paryushan emphasizes human solidarity, peaceful coexistence, friendship, nonviolence, and universal ethical principles.

The devout engage themselves in  purification through fasting, repentance, and the pursuit of forgiveness. They take advantage of the opportunity for profound reflection, self-discipline, and personal development. In nutshell, the festival is an Endeavor to liberate the soul from the burdens of karma. The Devout also  Practice Kshamavani – both seek and extend forgiveness by uttering 'Micchami Dukkadam.' Jains request forgiveness if they have caused harm to others through thought, speech, or action, thereby fostering an environment of harmony, friendship, and compassion.

 COUPLETS ON PRAYUSHAN MAHAPARVA OF THE JAINS

 

The fast begins, a quiet plea,

To cleanse the soul, and set it free.

 

"Forgive my words, my deeds unkind,"

A gentle peace, for all to find.

 

We shed old layers, soft and slow,

Let karma's heavy burdens go.

 

Seek not fleeting joys, nor false pride,

But inner growth, our spirit's guide.

 

A new rebirth, so pure and clear,

Dispelling doubt, removing fear.

 

See others' hearts, as you see your own,

On non-harm’s path, our seeds are sown.

 

With every being, forge a bond,

No hate can last, or look beyond.

 

Let harmony in whispers bloom,

And light the world, beyond the gloom.

 

See every soul, as just your own,

All beings equal, widely known.

 

Let friendship bloom, with everyone,

No hateful thoughts, when day is done.

 

In unity, our strength will lie,

With peace and love, beneath the sky.

 

With honest heart, we look inside,

Where shadows of our wrongs reside.