Michchhami

Michchhami is a Sanskrit phrase that translates to "May all that has been done, done wrongly, be forgiven." It is a central tenet of the Jain faith and is particularly associated with the festival of Samvatsari. Samvatsari is the last day of the Jain calendar year, a day of introspection and repentance. During this time, Jains seek forgiveness from all living beings for any harm, intentional or unintentional, they may have caused throughout the year.

The act of asking for and granting forgiveness, encapsulated in Michchhami, is a fundamental principle in Jainism. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of non-violence (ahimsa) in thought, word, and deed. By seeking forgiveness, individuals aim to purify their souls and start the new year with a clean slate, free from the burden of past transgressions.

Conversely, Jains also offer forgiveness to others, recognizing that everyone makes mistakes. This reciprocal act of asking and granting forgiveness is believed to foster peace, understanding, and harmony within the community and the wider world. The practice of Michchhami is not limited to the formal occasion of Samvatsari; it is encouraged as an ongoing attitude of humility and compassion throughout the year. It serves as a reminder of the ethical responsibilities individuals have towards all sentient beings.