Micchhami Dukkadam

As a self proclaimed Atheist, more a non-believer in rituals than in god, it's very strange for me to write a post in favour of a religious tradition. Don't get me wrong, i believe every religion has something good about it and maybe I'll pick and choose a few things that make sense to me in the pursuit of god and write about them.

So this post is about a tradition in Jainism, since i was brought up in this religion and since it is Samvatsari today i might as well write about why this particular tradition appeals to me (not that it always did).

If we go by history (and not by what the religious texts say) Jainism started off less as a religion and more as a common way of life for people who were shunned by the high priests of those ages. The basic tenet is "live and let live" and like most religions it teaches tolerance, forgiveness and fortitude. Samvatsari is all about Forgiveness. It's a day when you lay your disputes, quarrels and vendettas aside. You ask the forgiveness of those whom you may have hurt, knowingly or unknowingly and you forgive those who come to seek yours.

People are supposed to spend Samvatsari in reflection; thinking of what wrong might they have done to others and how can they avoid that in future. Obviously now it is a mere ritual. But sometimes it makes so much sense to just acknowledge your wrong doings and cleanse yourself of them.

So tough to say 2 words... "I'm sorry", because the worst part is to admit that you were wrong. But I've decided to do that today... If I have caused you offence in any way, knowingly or unknowingly, in thought, word or deed, then I seek your forgiveness.

Khamemi Savve Jiva	I forgive all living beings.
Savve Jiva Khamantu me	May all souls forgive me,
Mitti me Savva Bhooesu	I am friendly terms with all,
Veram Majjham Na Kenvi	I have no animosity toward any soul.
Michchhami Dukkadam	May all my faults be dissolved

MICCHHAMI DUKKADAM... may all the evil be undone.