Samvatsari

Samvatsari is the last day of Paryushana —the eight or ten day festival of Jainism. It is the holiest day of the Jain calendar.^{[1] [2]}Many Jains observe a complete fast on this day. The whole day is spent in prayers and contemplation. A yearly, elaborate penitential retreat called samvatsati pratikramana is performed on this day. After the pratikramana Jains seek forgiveness from all the creatures of the world whom they may have harmed knowingly or unknowingly by uttering the phrase— Micchami Dukkadam or "Khamau Sa". As a matter of ritual, they personally greet their friends and relatives Micchami Dukkadam. No private quarrel or dispute may be carried beyond Samvatsari and letters and telephone calls are made to the outstation friends and relatives asking their forgiveness.^[3]

References

1. ^ Shah, Nathubhai (1998). Jainism: The World of Conquerors. Volume I and II. Sussex: Sussex Academy Press. ISBN 1898723303.  p. 212
2. ^ "Jains pray for peace, brotherhood". The Hindu. 2007-09-13. http://www.hindu.com/2007/09/13/stories/2007091353590500.htm. Retrieved 2009-11-11. 
3. ^ Hastings, James (2003), Encyclopedia of Religion and Ethics Part 10, Kessinger Publishing ISBN 9780766136823 p.876

See also

• Kshamavaani
• Forgiveness in Jainism