Paryushan with Pujya Tai Ma: 2021
The current unprecedented times has brought with it many challenges but, whatever the circumstances, the beautiful Jain festival of forgiveness, Paryushan, is always the focal point for spiritual reflection and progress for Jains. Year 2021 was no different and we were all fortunate to have the opportunity to celebrate Paryushan in the divine presence of Pujya Tai Ma. To learn from PujyaTai Ma and the sadhvi sangha of Veerayatan is undoubtedly a splendid and valuable occasion.
Upadhyaya Sadhvi Shri Yashaji lead the beautiful meditations each day, initially focussing on the gross and then on the subtle body, speech and mind, and then moving onto our inner beauty, our reality, our soul. The importance of meditation in bringing detachment, even whilst creating friendships and extending a helping hand to all, was explained wonderfully by Pujya Tai Ma.
Pujya Tai Ma, in the morning lectures, spoke about her total surrender to Bhagwan Mahavir, so much so that she wishes she was there to protect Bhagwan in his times of difficulty. Pujya Tai Ma revealed that it is this which provides her with the motivation and drive which we have all observed for decades to extend a helping hand to all she comes in contact with and beyond!
To listen to Pujya Tai Ma and the sadhvi sangh’s thoughts on how to progress on the spiritual path and address the challenges we must overcome, you can listen to the talks delivered as part of the Paryushan Mahaparva 2021 program:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?
list=PLttI7h5kbs_
UWJZF5PMNKptMqxd2wSz9x
“Paryushan neither belongs to nor is related to any one individual or religion. Two things are important in Bhagwan Mahavir’s teachings: the first is protection of the environment and for that you have to accept “Maitri” (friendliness). Only when you become a friend can you protect something or someone; Paryushan Parva is also called Maitri Parva. The second most important teaching is Parasparopagraho Jivanam—you need earth, water, air, plants and animals for your survival; you make use of everything that nature offers. But you have to remember, just like you take, you should also give back to the earth.” (Pujya Tai Ma)