samayik

Samayik is a Jain religious practice that denotes a fixed period of personal meditation and reflection intended to cultivate equanimity and ethical discipline. It is typically observed as a daily or periodic ritual and commonly lasts about 48 minutes, though shorter sessions are common for lay practitioners. The practice is usually performed in a quiet, clean space, with the practitioner seated calmly and maintaining silence and minimal movement.

During samayik, practitioners begin with prayers such as the Namokar Mantra and proceed to a bhavna, or meditative reflection, focused on the nature of the self, karma, and ethical conduct. The reflection often emphasizes Jain vows, including the five main vows or corresponding layperson restraints, such as non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy or restraint (brahmacharya), and non-attachment (aparigraha). A central component is the practice of forgiveness (kshama) toward all living beings and a resolve to refrain from harm during the session.

Samayik is observed by both Śvetāmbara and Digambara Jains, with variations in prayers and format across communities. It is widely practiced by lay followers as part of daily discipline and is also observed during major periods such as Paryushan and Mahaparva; monastics may observe longer forms of meditation as well.

In purpose, samayik serves as a focused practice of mindfulness and ethical self-discipline within Jainism, aiming to reduce harm, foster inner peace, and reinforce commitment to non-violence, truth, and detachment.