FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK
Dear Reader,
Jai Jinendra!
Paryushan and Dash Lakshan Parv represent two of the most spiritually significant observances within the Jain tradition, celebrated respectively by the Shvetambar and Digambar sects. These festivals underscore the pursuit of inner purification through practices such as fasting, introspection, and scriptural engagement. At the heart of both observances lies the principle of kshama (forgiveness), regarded not merely as a moral ideal but as a vital spiritual discipline.
In Jain philosophy, forgiveness is intrinsically linked to ahimsa (non-violence). The act of forgiving and seeking forgiveness is understood as a means of dissolving karmic entanglements and fostering a state of equanimity. The culmination of these festivals-Samvatsari in the Shvetambar tradition and Kshamavani in the Digambar tradition-is marked by a solemn ritual of seeking forgiveness from all living beings, for any harm caused knowingly or unknowingly.
On this sacred occasion, the International School for Jain Studies (ISJS) humbly seeks forgiveness from all sentient beings. In alignment with its commitment to spiritual refinement through swadhyaya (self-study), ISJS continues to offer a range of educational programs throughout the year. Among these, the Bhagwan Mahavira Prakrit Fellowship Program-dedicated to the study of canonical languages and texts-commences this week.
We invite scholars, practitioners, and well-wishers to remain engaged with ISJS's ongoing initiatives in Jain education and research.
Jai Jinendra!
Paryushan and Dash Lakshan Parv represent two of the most spiritually significant observances within the Jain tradition, celebrated respectively by the Shvetambar and Digambar sects. These festivals underscore the pursuit of inner purification through practices such as fasting, introspection, and scriptural engagement. At the heart of both observances lies the principle of kshama (forgiveness), regarded not merely as a moral ideal but as a vital spiritual discipline.
In Jain philosophy, forgiveness is intrinsically linked to ahimsa (non-violence). The act of forgiving and seeking forgiveness is understood as a means of dissolving karmic entanglements and fostering a state of equanimity. The culmination of these festivals-Samvatsari in the Shvetambar tradition and Kshamavani in the Digambar tradition-is marked by a solemn ritual of seeking forgiveness from all living beings, for any harm caused knowingly or unknowingly.
On this sacred occasion, the International School for Jain Studies (ISJS) humbly seeks forgiveness from all sentient beings. In alignment with its commitment to spiritual refinement through swadhyaya (self-study), ISJS continues to offer a range of educational programs throughout the year. Among these, the Bhagwan Mahavira Prakrit Fellowship Program-dedicated to the study of canonical languages and texts-commences this week.
We invite scholars, practitioners, and well-wishers to remain engaged with ISJS's ongoing initiatives in Jain education and research.
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