It is on this day (World Forgiveness day - Kshamavani Divas), after the end of 10 days Dashalakshana Parva, the Jains emphasise on their respective annual pratikramana (a reflection of their spiritual journey over the past year). They also observe a unique custom, where they ask for forgiveness (Kshama) with every individual they may have offended during the year. Old quarrels are forgotten and friendship and relationship renewed, as they fold their hands humbly and pray for "forgiveness". It also helps in bringing together healthy society and people development.
Following is the prayer (in Prakrit Language) one should say while doing Pratikramana:
In English it is:
Khämmami Savve Jivänam, Savve Jivä Khamantu Mi
Metti Me Savva bhudesu, Vairam majjham na Kena vi.
which means,
I forgive all living beings of the Universe,
May all living beings forgive me for my faults.
I have friendship for all living beings,
I do not have any animosity towards anybody!
This aphorism (Sutra) is one of the humble and great way to ask for forgiveness with the unity of the speech, mind, and body.
The process of shredding our karmäs (wrong acts / works) really begins by asking for forgiveness with true feelings, and to take the vow not to repeat mistakes. The quality of the forgiveness requires humility (vinay - absence of ego) and suppression of anger.
In one of his Holy discourse Lord Mahavir (the 24th Tirthankara - prophet of Jainism) has said "Forgiveness (Kshama) is the ornament of a brave person".
The Bravery does not lie in proving the power but in Forgiving. At times we also experience that to Forgive one is the most difficult task in life.
On this auspicious occasion of Kshamavani Divas, I respectfully seek Kshama from you and all living beings for hurting the feelings of any one, knowingly or unknowingly, in thought, word and action (mana, vachana aur kaya) during the past year, directly or indirectly and knowingly or unknowingly in any form, for any unpleasant and unwanted happenings.
I also forgive all living beings that may have caused any pain and suffering to me. My friendship be with all living beings and no hostility towards anyone.
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