स्वपुरुषार्थ से आत्मशुद्धि का प्रयोग : प्रतिक्रमण

Summary

The text discusses the concept of *pratikraman* (repentance/atonement) within Jain culture, which is described as a spiritually oriented tradition. *Pratikraman* is presented as a fundamental method for purifying the soul, turning from external to internal focus, and correcting life's course. It involves self-examination, recognizing faults, and immediately rectifying them to cleanse the soul. The text notes that similar practices exist in other religions: Vedic rituals (sandhya), Zoroastrian repentance, Muslim namaz, Christian confession, and Buddhist pavarana. Various synonyms for *pratikraman* are listed, including returning to good conduct, abandoning bad associations, and confessing sins before a guru. The purpose is to purify the soul from karmic impurities, much like bathing cleans the body. *Pratikraman* is categorized by time (past, present, future) and period (daily, nightly, fortnightly, four-monthly, yearly). It is also divided into physical (dravya) and mental (bhava) forms, with the latter being more sincere. The text explains that *pratikraman* helps prevent future faults through resolution, strengthens vows, and promotes spiritual discipline. It is compared to a medicine for mental afflictions, removing the "thorns" of sin. The practice is said to foster forgiveness, friendship with all beings, and spiritual progress. The text concludes by emphasizing that *pratikraman* is essential for self-improvement and liberation, as it helps eliminate karmic bonds and leads to a pure, enlightened life.