Ksamavani

Ksamavani

September; first day of the waning half of Asvina

Jainism, a religion that originated in ancient India, advocates peaceful coexistence. Forgiveness is thus regarded as a sacred act and is foundational to spiritual health. In the spirit similar to that of Paryushana, a better known Jain festival, Ksamavani invites believers to ask for and receive forgiveness. It takes place in India and in Jain communities abroad during the lunar month of Asvina, which falls between September and October.
On Ksamavani, every member of the Jain community approaches family members, neighbors, colleagues, and co-workers and asks them for forgiveness for harms done. The other person can be anyone, irrespective of his or her social standing, and the offenses could be committed knowingly or unknowingly. The ritual is intended to help repair severed ties and relations. It is also a required act for anyone looking to attain the ultimate goal of nirvana, the term for the liberation of the soul.

CONTACTS:
Ministry of External Affairs
Government of India
South Block
New Delhi, 110011 India
www.mea.gov.in

SOURCES:
RelHolCal-2004, p. 196