Q22. Why are women not allowed in the temple or to do puja, prayer, rituals etc. during their menstruation, the monthly biological cycle?
We applaud the youth for asking this progressive question and thinking beyond the status-quo. Menstruation is a natural biological process that a woman undergoes and that makes creation of any human life possible. Yet, some religious authorities and traditional followers treat menstrual cycles as unclean, impure, and go so far to forbid women from participating in religious or temple activities during their menstrual cycles.
With increased awareness and knowledge, both men and women, are questioning the reasons for these rules, traditions, and practices surrounding menstruation. Why menstruating women are separated from the religious community? Is there is any spiritual significance, or any Jain principle driven reasons behind these rules?
When a girl starts menstruating, these rules are dealt in different ways and generally one of the following happens:
a. Girl accepts the culturally programmed deep rooted belief system, she doesn’t feel a need to question the restrictions or she doesn’t see anything wrong with it.
b. Girl questions the restrictions and the family come up with an approach with mutual understanding and respect, but they are still constrained by the traditional / societal belief systems. For example, they won’t have any restrictions at home, but they won’t go to temple during menstruation or won’t share their thoughts on this topic with others or in public.
c. Girl questions the restrictions because she wants to understand rather than follow these rules blindly. But no satisfactory or principle driven reasons are provided, and she is expected to comply.
d. Girl refuses to follow such restrictions and she is portrayed as defiant or rebellious.
We spoke with some sadhvijis (nuns) and a few laywomen who follow sadhvijis very closely from different Jain sects. They all have said and agreed, this is a very controversial and challenging subject to discuss. During our conversations, we have found that their practices are based on their Guru Maharaj’s discretion.
Some women who grew up with these rules may never feel comfortable discarding this tradition. While for others, it often creates feelings of confusion over the reasons, conflict, shame, resentment, or even hostility towards the religion and the community.
This article is primarily intended for people who experience feelings of confusion and see themselves in scenarios b, c, or d. We are addressing this question to create awareness with knowledge and answer questions for curious minds who want to understand objectively from principles.
Natural Biological Process for Human Life
First and foremost, menstruation is a natural biological process that a woman goes through, nothing more and nothing less. Menstrual cycle is fundamental for any human life. Instead of shaming women for this natural phenomenon, we shall acknowledge that our very existence is dependent on it. Blood of a woman was, and is, a natural and fundamental component of life. This understanding is so vital, and we need to really let that sink in.
Once this fundamental belief system is examined, we can reflect on our thought process and attempt to uproot our internal biases such seeing this biological process as impure or unclean, instead of pious.
With this in mind, we will explore various commonly cited reasons for restrictions due to menstruation. We urge you to think, internalize the information and use your own wisdom to make your decision.
Common Reasons for Restrictions
There are many traditions that bring meaningful symbolic purpose. Traditions like bowing to Bhagwan, saying Jai Jinendra to each other, removing shoes, and wearing clean and proper clothes for puja. These traditions bring us together and help us celebrate our heritage, culture, and religion in a positive way that harms no one. But not every tradition deserves this respect. Some traditions are better left behind.
Desecrate our Tirthankaras
Some religious authorities and traditional followers say that menstruating women are not worthy of praying to the Tirthankaras because their presence near the Murti would desecrate our Bhagwan. They say that their state of mind or emotional state during menstrual cycle is somehow inappropriate to be near anything sacred. This is indefensible of course, since our Tirthankaras are vitragi, they don’t have any kind of attachments or aversion. And ultimately all temple rituals in Jain religion are meant to purify our own Soul. This tradition of barring women in their cycles from participating in derasar not only has no rational basis in Jain dharma, but it’s also harmful and shameful. It implies a message that women are dirty or polluted.
Dev and Devi Curse
Some people or traditionalists believe that it’s the Dev and Devi who can be adversely affected by the ‘asuchi’ or impurities associated with menstruation and these temple Devs and Devis will curse the person and the Jain community.
First let’s look at it from historic perspective, the concept of praying Dev and Devi got introduced into Jainism approximately in 6th or 7th century, which is about 1100 years after Mahavir Swami’s nirvana. During Mahavir Swami’s time, no one prayed to Devs or Devis in Jainism, but it got introduced because of the influence of other Indian traditions and religions at that time and it also appealed to human desires and weaknesses.
If we look at Mahavir Swami’s life, he went through so many difficulties (upsargs and parishah) on his journey to liberation but he did not take any kind of rescue or refuge in Dev or Devi for the difficulties he had to face. Even Lord Indra offered him to be at his service during his Sadhana period of 12.5 years. But Bhagwan Mahavir denied it and said that “No one can attain Keval Jnan with someone’s help. And this is the fundamental Jain principle that we need to chart our own path for liberation. Jainism principally does not believe and is not dependent on blessings or curse from dev and devis.
Magnetic Pious Field Gets Disturbed around Temple
Others believe that the magnetic fields around the derasar could get disturbed by menstruating women. Derasar is the place of our vitraagi tirthankara, who are above kind of aversions or attachments, so again how can it affect them or their residence? Do these otherwise rational people would check whether their female airplane pilots are fit to fly, lest their condition cause the plane to crash? Or the female surgeons are fit to perform a surgery?
Menstruating Women need Rest
The notion of menstruation as a period of “rest” is widely prevalent and often propagated as a reason for these restrictions.
In older days, women were required to do extensive physical labor work and more people lived in joint families, compared to the current time. During the menstrual cycle, women experience discomfort, abdominal cramps, pains of varying intensity which makes it very difficult for them to carry out their usually daily activities and household work. When the society made restrictions mandatory duties, the families were coerced into allowing women to rest during those days and subsequently the women too, were able to take rest without any guilt.
But the question we need to ask is, if the intention is to provide that “rest”, which the women badly need due to stress and physical discomfort, then why is there a notion of women as pollutants and impure during menstruation? The intention to provide physical rest is a noble intention, but the stigma, isolation, and public shaming creates a much more intense emotional stress and social disgust around it, and that takes away the value behind this noble intention.
Moreover, rare is the household where the burden of housework and childcare doesn’t fall overwhelmingly on the woman, regardless of the time of month. This rationale of “resting” is often a self-serving and hypocritical excuse. Because even in current times, we are trying to continue this discriminating practice under the pretext of socially acceptable label of “resting”.
State of Mind
Furthermore, if menstruation is somehow physically “polluting” let us consider that some worshipers’ states of mind may be much more seriously afflicted by the effects of anger, greed, ego and lust. Should they also be required to abstain from doing darshan? There are no rules about this. No one seems to excuse himself or herself from praying and doing aarti because of his or her emotional state of mind, or presence of negative thoughts and passions. If we extend the rule to its logical end, we will find that hardly any person is ever fit to visit derasar.
So, the question is why?
Why have menstruating women been singled out for this public shaming and banned from doing darshan or other religious rituals? Could it be because the men feared something they didn’t understand, so they demonized it? The collective history of civilization is replete with examples of patriarchal cultures creating rules to suppress women.
Maybe we picked up the tradition from another religion, but without thinking whether it’s time to leave it behind. Maybe the rule was created for some other reason that doesn’t make sense anymore, but we have mindlessly maintained the rule out of a misguided respect for tradition.
The Jinmanjari 1996 Publication from Canada Bramhi Jain Society goes in great depth about Jainism and the Spirituality of Women starting on page 49. It provides the historic perspectives and specifically talks about how Jainism wasn't able to escape the patriarchal doctrine and other socio-religious influences on menstruation either, starting on page 57. Link to the complete article on Jainelibrary (or search by # 524013) - https://jainelibrary.org/book-detail/?srno=524013.
If the tradition were of symbolic value and not harming anyone, it wouldn’t matter. But it’s not harmless. It’s discriminatory. The rule is inconsistently applied and irrational. This tradition’s time is over and should be discarded.
For example, Acharya Sushil Muni consistently and openly condemned these traditions. There are religions like Sikhism, who have completely rejected the idea of impurity and does not endorse any restrictions on menstruating women. Buddha also had similar views. Also, there are families who don’t follow these norms, they educate others and are creating some awareness amongst the society, but they are in minority.
Summary
In summary, women should be treated with dignity, respect and seen as an equal. We respect everyone’s right to his or her opinion, but it should not take away entitlement, respect and dignity from others.
We shall consider that human birth is not possible without menstruation. Instead of shaming women for this natural phenomenon, we shall acknowledge that our very existence is dependent on it.
Woman’s menstrual cycle is no one’s business but hers. Women should not feel any pressure to avoid religious activities due to period. Women should be free to meditate, pray, and visit the temple anywhere and anytime they want to. It should be her choice. Men can act as an ally by supporting women and discouraging such rules in their homes and temples.
The core principles of Jainism teach us to show compassion toward others and never miss an opportunity to serve others. When us humans are going through difficult situations, we need the spiritual teachings and practices from Jainism more than ever at that point. So, when women are going through psychological changes with menstruation, the society should provide the support and not isolate them or make them feel shameful.
The real spiritual growth impediments do not reside in any outward physical form, but instead in our inner state of being when it takes on the forms of ego, greed, deceit, or anger. The greater purpose of the religion is to realize and experience the true nature of our soul and any activity that take us closer to that is our religion.
If you are a swimming coach would you ask someone to jump against current when they are entering water for the first time ?
ReplyDeleteJain practices are the preserved experiences from the past generation's learnings to aid the process of transcending from human existence to godhood. Problem is we are left with the conclusions not the process that was used to arrive at them.
For ordinary human beings body and mind works in tandem. Achieving an existence where mind reign supreme is a very difficult task. The kind of psychotherapy (known as antar tap in traditional works) that you are doing on yourself requires very advanced knowledge of physiology, psychology and a very sharp intellect. It requires knowledge and mastery of both body and mind. That's why jains came up with concept of charam sharir to indicate your body is fit for the kind of the work that you are undertaking. That's also the reason why you start with Bahya tap to gain the knowledge and mastery over body.
Best of the surgeon would have a very hard time operating on a patient who is moving, now imagine if you have to do a very complex surgery on your own brain.
Menstruation is a physiological process but it has psychological impact and if you are trying to do your own psychotherapy (antartap) when menstruating, results can be very dangerous.
That's why jainism put a safeguard by saying menstruating women should not indulge in religious practices.
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Ur concept is not relevant here.. The author has rightly suggested to re think this process and overcome it
DeleteExactly as dipen said.
DeleteTry to understand the reason for the conclusion and not derive reasons from the conclusions and assert that something was put in place because of so and so reasons while the so and so reasons are factually incorrect.
The reasons defined by the author are in line and needs to be evaluated with the current context and discarded if not correct.
There are many of such beliefs that have been discarded in the past and such should be followed for these as well
@dhandeep
DeleteAgree to your point that Reasons should lead to conclusions and not vice versa.
But equally true is the fact that Reasoning has to be done with due understanding and knowledge.
For example, without any medical knowledge if I claim that "I don't see any reason in not consuming poison" doesn't mean all should start consuming poison.
Simply put, If you don't see a "reason", it might be that you are not qualified enough and so you dont see the "reason" behind doing or not doing something. Make an effort to gain the wider knowledge rather than starting to label things as right and wrong based on one's limited knowledge
You argue using two premises: (i)past learning and processes are somehow perfect and therefore inviolable and (ii) menstruation somehow leads to a debilitation of the mind.
DeleteOn your first premise, I would argue that the eternal strength of Jainism derives from its five foundational principles that have not only stood the test of time but have also provided a beacon to the rest of the world. Ahimsa, which guided Gandhiji, Dr. King and Mandela in overthrowing centuries of occupation, slavery and racism, is today considered, world-wide, the most effective form of resistance, on the one hand, to all manner and forms of suppression of people and, on the other, to cruelty to animals. These foundational principles define Jainism and are, undoubtedly, inviolable.
But with Jain precepts, practices, and rituals, one has to be more open to emergent scientific knowledge and understanding because that harks back to the very rise of Jainism. Jainism grew dramatically by leaps and bounds only BECAUSE (sic) we aggressively challenged the Astiks and (essentially) their Vedas (and, resultantly, ended up being derisively called Nastiks). Unlike, for example, Anekantawada/Syedwada which has acquired its own unique standing as Jainism’s major contribution to the field of philosophy and which, now, underpins large swathes of post-modern philosophy as mankind struggles to understand "reality” especially given the startling discovery of the TimeSpace paradigm, not all Jain precepts are necessarily as immune to review and/or reconsideration.
This brings me to your second premise. As pointed out in the article, mankind now has a clearer idea about the biology of menstruation than our ancestors did. Unlike what you aver, there is little scientific evidence that women in menstruation are so psychologically debilitated as to not be able to enter a temple and pay their obeisance. At the most they could have some harmless mood swings, if at all. Bringing in psychotherapy and even much less your foray into the need for a “mastering” of the body and mind, are extraneous to the discussion on hand.
I agree with your article totally. Restrictions on menstruation women are mainly because that happens only to women. The rest is patriarchal trash.
DeleteAll religions believe that they are scientific, but none is. Religious people never have open minds. They rarely discard their beliefs even in the face of strong evidence. e.g. the structure of universe stated by each religion - including Jainism - is completely false.
Many believe that there must have been profound reasons for the religious restrictions. But profound thinking is not the prerogative of gyanis of thousands of years ago.
Luckily, Jains are practical people. So such restrictions will be followed less & less in future.
I do not think this practice was ever intended as decrimination against women. It is being taken out of context. The rule applied to men as well (if they were mensurating!) If a man was bleeding on the forehead and tries to do pooja or his wound is infected with puss, he is equally barred from going to the temple. it is simply a question of the sanctity of place of worship. similar sanctity rules apply to men after they return from funeral home. In my view, Jain girls growing-up in the U.S. (with pathshala exposure) have truly understood the sanctity part and they just skip few days of physical visit to the temple. Jai Jinendra.
DeleteI agreed with above comment. Restrictions are not meant for discriminations.
DeleteAlso, the logic of tirthankar on above article is not making sense. If they are vitaragi then they are taking about treating good and bad equally, are in that state? we are living with good and bad in every part of the life then when it comes to these things we cannot roll in other argument about it.
This things isn't just about going to temple. Women and especially teenage girls are often disallowed from entering the kitchen, touching taps and all the other things which are commonly used by other members of the family too. How will you explain this? Isn't it a type of STEREOTYPICAL DISCRIMINATION??
DeleteCan you please elaborate on psychological process you are talking about? I have never heard of any. What was believed centuries ago was based on their understanding. Now, that we understand the basic physiology - there is no logic of singling out Menstruating women.
DeleteJust imagine you are a 15 year old - already feeling awkward about menstruation and now the whole community knows when you are in period? This is highest form of Hinsa - violence against these women. Jainism did not put a safeguard buy not allowing Menstruating women in religious practice - these were human being This practice should be abolished at every mandir
DeleteLet's say you are having periods. That's function of body. Feeling confused or for that matter having any feeling that's the part you need to work on. You want to reach a point where you know that you are having periods but it has no impact on you no feelings, no confusion, no aversion, no desire to hide or expose anything, no feeling of shame or pride. Your objective is to become a seer and knower whose mental state is not affected in any way by functions of your body or for that matter by anything else. That's the crux of Jainism. Pratikraman is to identify why something affected your mental state and pratyakhyan is to unlearn whatever misconception were the root cause of the changes in your mental state. Hope it helps.
DeleteWow.. excellent article. Need to send a copy of this to all Temple committees.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you with samkyak darshan and gyan.
DeleteI appreciate this nuanced take on this important topic and the ultimate realization that this is a discriminatory and antiquated mindset that has no place in the 21st century. It’d be great for more of our religious leaders to discuss topics like this in the open and help shake off these stigmas.
ReplyDeleteThis is a wonderful and honest article. Bravo on laying out your thoughts so clearly. Completely agree with you on this matter.
ReplyDeleteLove to hear a predominant Jain scholar voicing a controversial viewpoint on this topic. You said all the things I’ve been thinking about for years but never said for fear of being seen as “defiant”. Maybe, over time, we’ll come to see the stigma around menstruating women disappear.
ReplyDeleteJai Jinendra, While I agree with most of what is said, I also do not agree with the restrictions imposed on women during menstruation. I still will like to express what I had learned form my maternal grandfather growing up in late 60s. He was a very strict ritualistic and very practical Jain in my humble opinion, he used to travel and conduct various Pujans like Siddhachakra Pujan or Pratishtha in a temple etc. I also occasionally traveled with him for such events. He said that the reason for girls/women not going to temple relates to the theory of Impurity of the Body as mentioned above, however, his version went beyond menstruation and I have not heard anyone mention that. I am a Men and in those days if I had an injury on any part of the body and especially if there is infection then I will not be allowed to do Puja and same principle applied to my sister as well over and above menstruation for her! Point made was that we should not do sacred rituals like doing Puja, touching idols etc, if our body is impure! It was applied equally to men and women! Thank you for this opportunity, Dr. Nitin Shah, my email is nitinshahmd@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteHow does an injury or an infection make us impure.. A soul cannot never be impure, it's always pure.. And body is something that is going to be destroyed at sometime or other
DeleteI truly applaud the writer of this blog. My kudos to her/him. This discriminations must stop NOW with IMMEDIATE effect. Time for women to be submissive and follow the old irrational traditions is over....Professor Dr. Shailendra Palvia
DeleteGlad you mentioned this. I was told the same thing (I am a man) If I had a cut on my skin or something of the like, I could not participate. I think this should be made more clear so that it doesn't seem like women are being singled out unfairly. I do recognize that women go through this monthly, but the idea is still the same for man and woman. If your body is is bleeding, has open wound , etc. it is respectful to abstain from practice in tempel until it ends or your body heals
DeleteThe concept of the menstrual cycle being an impure process is a problem to begin with. It is not impure. It is not an injury. This is unfortunately a misogynistic application of the Impurity of Body concept.
Delete@Professor Shailendra Palvia, Ph.D.
DeleteThe traditions were not made to "discriminate". Traditions were made for a reason!
If it is being perceived socially as discrimination then that faulty perception has to be stopped. Not the traditions! If your hand gets a boil, cure the boil, dont cut the hand!
Instead go into the depth of the rationale behind the traditions. Labelling them as irrational with myopic thinking wont help.
Pls see this video by sonu Joseph giving a scientific reason on the subject.
Deletehttps://youtu.be/ATTDgSyDLoc
Exactly. Its not about men or women, its about the bleeding. Be it a man or women both needs to follow same.
DeleteMen with a cut is allowed in temple but menstruating women is NOT at all allowed in temple...she is not just prohibited from doing puja...at home she is not allowed to cook and made to sit on one side/corner...so its not just about bleeding...
DeleteAgree on that. Men/women are allowed with cuts and wounds, but this is the real problem. So we should correct those measures.
DeleteIf there is a crack on a dam then we don't let the dam break completely and flow away, we fix the crack. So we should have guidelines for both Men and women. Due to male dominant social structure definitely there have been gaps in the knowledge created.
@Dipen Maroo: if soul is pure then if I kill anything I shouldnt obtain any karma as I didnt kill anything and they are in pure state. Your logic is weak.
DeleteInfact ur logic is weak.. Who is the murderer according to u.. Who is the doer.. The soul?? U need to understand this first.. Before deciding if murder can bind u a merit or a demerit karma
DeleteI m a women and I don’t want to go to temple and do religious activities on my periods , I don’t feel comfortable ,feels weak , emotionally frustrated and I don’t feel hygienic as well . Why all people in the name of equality want to increase pressure of doing more and more on women even during there periods . And menstruating women can’t impure Bhagwan but there aura and unhygienic state can affect others who are coming to the temple . Blood when it’s out of the body starts to develop bacteria in it that’s why it’s not right to do puja. Women are asked to change pads frequently so that they don’t get infection due to there own blood at that point why don’t anybody ask questions that why to change pad so frequently . Even men with fever and cuts are not allowed to do puja and Abhishek bcz they can spread infections to others doing rituals . It’s written in the Granthas. Go and study properly . And infection made us impure that’s why in covid we were following social distancing . So if we follow this distancing in covid then why can’t in menstruation .
Delete@MeenuJain Periods is not a disease or an infection. It's a biological cycle, on which a female has no control over. It's not only about granthas, please let's also use common sense
DeleteActually in the previous times, that is, 1000-1500 years ago, there were no proper methods of sanitization/ cleanliness for wounds as well as the pads, tampoons or menstrual cups and various things were not present. So, as we study just the time 100 years ago, we can easily see how harsh was for women to survive these days using mud etc. New theories were constructed and accepted as it is in our religion as a norm. People who feel to drink casually, do it, even being a Jain. In my opinion, there is no solid reason for it, it depends on the individual what she wants to choose.
DeleteVery good article. Well explained & the final conclusion will be acceptable to most of the young educated Jaibd unless someone can give us more convincing arguments against the final verdict.
ReplyDeleteIssue is raised as concern to the modern woman today. It is a known fact that during the mensuration period the egg is destroyed and the physique of any woman suffers a set back for at least a few days. In the old days these days were thise when a woman isolated feom touching the rest of the family members for others to remain clean from the bloody stains and like. The disallowance of not touching the pious objects had the same significance. Such traditions rather, have and should have no issue in the mind if a modern progressive woman.
ReplyDeleteAs long as the person (men & women) both are taking care of sudhi (ie clean cloths), there should be no restriction. There is no logical reason for stopping women from worship in temple during periods.
ReplyDeleteThe entire post above is very well written and progressive in its thinking. I agree this tradition should be questioned, I agree with the points made above, and I would not make a decision for someone other than myself.
ReplyDeleteThe only reasoning I have seen that has merit is that the derasar is intended to be a self-ordained pristine location where one can entirely change their default state of mind from a worldly, attached, 'ego' to a realized, awakened soul. The derasar gives physical space to bring forth that state of being. Therefore, during sickness, menstruation, or any illness, that intended purpose of the derasar can be marred. There may be greater levels of distraction due to physical pain or greater emotional attachment to illusions due to a mentally altered state of mind. If one is knowingly removing the sanctity that he or she highly upholds, and if one is devaluing the power of the derasar in their lives, then perhaps it is okay to consider staying at home.
It's a personal decision, but as an example, if I had a sickness such as a stomach infection or a headache, I would opt to stay home rather than taint the ability of the derasar as a holy space of self-awakening. Perhaps not having gone makes a difference the next time in awakening the soul in that space, while having gone may lead to memories/unnecessary attachments/a less impactful experience that will slow the spiritual growth of the soul.
You have correctly mentioned that this decision is purely subjective I.e. personal and it should be like that only.It should not be seen as a rule or a kind of restriction.
DeleteTushar has excellent point that flits the ecological conditions of the past and explains the probable rationale behind the physical/social/religious restrictions during menstruation at that time. To bring this in present-day context, Scotland announced yesterday (26th November, 2020) that feminine hygiene products will be made available free.
DeleteAs the ecology has changed, we, the Jain Sangh (chaturvidh sangh), should change the position and allow women to practice all activities in temple disregard of menstruation cycle as long hygiene is practiced. This is a good application of anekantvad and will demonstrate the Sangh using anekantvad to guide us instead of anekantvad being mere 'words'.
Menstruation is not a SICKNESS! It is physiological cycle.
DeleteThanks for this excellent article, which i very much agree with. I propose one more consideration in addition to the complex realities outlined in the article. In older times, there were many people who did not have adequate food, shelter or clothing. Indeed the same occurs at present. Not all women would have had the same facilities during menstruation, such as padding and other materials to contain the menses. Basically it could be a bit messy, though no fault of a women going through a natural process. Indeed, having worked in developing countries, I have seen girls who have trouble attending school during menses, due to lack of hygiene products and proper bathroom facilities. Regarding temples, such practical considerations were likely combined and confused with so many opinions and patriarchal attitudes. Temple designers also seem to forget to make good bathrooms; likely another sign of male bias.
ReplyDeleteIn today's age, the majority of women have many more feminine products and techniques to utilize. Any restriction to attend temple needs to be free of restriction, misinformation or superstition. But one step further, we have a duty to help the girls of the world to access education and all important endeavours. Access to safe and clean bathrooms, and comfortable, affordable and ecological hygiene products, play a role in this. This is an issue extends beyond jainism, and includes our duty.
And btw - If anyone is designing or working in developing countries, I have an excellent design, from a Nepali woman physician, of an optimal bathroom design for low resource settings. It sounds simple but makes a world of difference for girls attending school.
I would love to see the design. I am volunteering with multiple NGOs for the same. Can you please email it to me on shethjilt@gmail.com
DeleteKind regards.
I would love to see the design. I am volunteering with multiple NGOs for the same. Can you please email it to me on shethjilt@gmail.com
DeleteKind regards.
Really appreciate this article and believe it is so important to undo this issue. Girls at a young age should not be made to feel to dirty or unpure because puberty has begun. Boys do not get isolated for going through puberty, this creates resentment between genders that can be perpetuated by other societal issues.
ReplyDeleteWomen need to move when menstruating, it is positive for bodies to be active so sitting in one corner is no good, even for rest.
Finally this needs to change for the sake of women. Often elder females enforce this due to their upbringing, it’s time we respect their underlying issues but focus on breaking the cycle. Periods are uncomfortable, they are also natural and therefore can not be punished.
In current environment, women have several options to stay “clean” during the monthly cycle as opposed to older times.
ReplyDeleteThat should nullify this obsolete tradition. Even Tirthankars would not have born without a woman without her monthly cycle!
The decision as to whether whether a menstruating woman wants to go to temple and worship or participate in religious functions should be totally left to her as long as she is in sound mind and sound body. if rest is what she needs, she should decide as to how she wants to rest.
ReplyDeletei am completely floored by this progressive thought. I have always seen irrational justifications to this subject. most irrational being that it is a tradition and traditions should not be questioned.
ReplyDeleteI am so happy to see that people are happy to accept that fact that traditions can be questioned and abandoned when more knowledge is available.
https://youtu.be/ATTDgSyDLoc
DeleteRequest you to see the video on above subject. This will change your views.
The link is not accessible. The video seems to be private and not accessible.
Deletei am completely floored by this progressive thought. I have always seen irrational justifications to this subject. most irrational being that it is a tradition and traditions should not be questioned.
ReplyDeleteI am so happy to see that people are happy to accept that fact that traditions can be questioned and abandoned when more knowledge is available.
Very Thoughtful, Very well Researched, Blog; Comm. has done a great job, & provided great service.
ReplyDeleteExcellent Article... You know the pathshalas that happen across Derasars around the world... This article should be read. You I really hope this is helps people clear up unnecessary ideas they have in their minds and unnecessary practices and norms our society has with no logic...
ReplyDeleteNon sense blog
ReplyDeleteThanks for raising this topic. By giving logic of progressiveness and equality etc., nothing is proven right. You should read the texts such as Ratnakarand Sharvakachar etc to arrive at a proper conclusion. From what my limited understanding. Is that a woman undergoes many mental and physical changes and hence may not be in the best position to pray. For example. There is something called sutak when there is a death in the family. Sacred books are not be read during this period. So by this logic you will also abandon this practice?
ReplyDeleteI am truly grateful for this article as it provides clear and thought provoking points. I believe that one of the 24 Tirthankaras was a female. Is there any literature available that discusses mensuration from her time?
ReplyDeleteI am truly grateful for this article as it provides clear and thought provoking points. I believe that one of the 24 Tirthankaras was a female. Is there any literature available that discusses mensuration from her time?
ReplyDeleteThank you for this article and good research. Well said and hope the society understands and not make it anymore embarrassing for girls and women.
ReplyDeleteIts always better to be late than never. While appreciating the contents and conclusion, I have following to add -
ReplyDelete1. It would be worthwhile to add that a girl child carries the entire quota of ova(eggs) at the time of her own birth! As she reaches puberty, these ova are released, one by one, once every month into her reproductive system. If left unfertilized, it goes as waste and needs to be flushed out (just as excess sperms, if not discharged, are flushed out through the natural and purely benign process of ‘night fall’). This is what we call menstruation. This process uses body fluids which are anyway part of the female body, so to brand her impure during those days is sign of ignorance.
2. Every religion has its own share of truth and dogmas. With large passage of time, superstitions do creep in and needs to be weeded out through the acceptance of irrefutable scientific facts. This calls for shunning the rigidity. Treating menstruation as a sign of body’s impurity is one such superstition.
3. There is a temple in Assam, Kamakhya, (if I remember correctly) where the deity which is worshipped is none other than the ‘vagina’. This is symbolic enough.
Excellent points. Thank you.
DeleteVinash kalin viprit buddhi.. absolutely bullshit article. Completely regressive. When you have a factory, all the waste that is generated is toxic and destroys the rivers that this toxicity goes into. A woman's body collects and stores enough chemicals to create a new human baby every momth. When that does not happen, the stored chemicals are emitted via menstruation and also through the skin. These emissions are all highly toxic in nature. Which is why women are isolated for 72 hours. It is ok to isolate for covid, but not for menstruation ? Why ? Not following isolation rules has led to a high level of fertility issues in men in the last 50 years. Being progressive and modern does not mean destroying the sanctity of home and temple. The karma phal of destroying this sanctity results in birth in sweeper community. And all this knowledge is present in jain religion. Why the selective reading and reporting to your own point of view ? If isolation in covid is not an atyachar and done for everyones wellbeing , then why is it atyachar to follow isolation during menstruation? Why these selective double standards?
ReplyDeletethere is no toxicity in menstrual blood. pease read this https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/000293785390636X#:~:text=No%20toxin%20was%20observed%20in,added%20to%20the%20menstrual%20blood.
Deletedo not spread superstitions.
Nirali, your logic makes no sense. There is nothing toxic in menstrual cycle. Declines in fertility have nothing to do with menstrual cycles. Your bigotry towards “sweeper class” shows how little you understand. The only toxic thing here is your argument.
Delete@Brinda
DeletePlease understand that there are subtler sciences beyond this material science that you are referring to. There are sciences pertaining to energy levels and vibes. In that context the meaning of "toxicity" changes. It's not what you are referring to
@Indian wedding observer
DeleteIf "There is nothing toxic in menstrual cycle." then you shouldn't mind drinking the menstrual blood. Will you?
Stop making authoritarian statements with no qualified knowledge base of such topics. Develop the attitude to learn (i repeat, "learn", not blindly believe). There are far subtler sciences than you know of. So make an effort of learning those, rather than calling names here
@Rohan D, just because I don't eat the grass in my front yard does not mean it is toxic. I find it hard to believe that the blood that can help create and nourish human life could be seen as toxic. If Jainism preaches against destruction of life, shouldn't we worship that which creates and celebrates life?
Delete@Anonymous
DeleteThe same blood that "create and nourish human life" does need to get purified in heart, isn't it?
Blood in itself is just the carrier. It becomes pure or impure based on the contents mixed in it.
The blood that flows out during menses is mixed with the impurities that the female body wants to discard. Otherwise, nature wouldn't have had such a precious resource ejected out of the body.
And as far as not going to temple etc during menses is concerned, it is not due to the blood being impure! Obviously the women are not going to stain their blood in the temples!!!
What we need to understand here is that there are several subtler sciences that operate along with the gross physical science. While physical body is in the process of ejecting the impurities (by impurities I don't mean to disgrace anything. it simply means waste materials just like urine and excreta) during the menses, correspondingly negative energies and vibes are ejected from the subtler layers of body. These are not visible to naked eyes, but Omniscient Ones and Acharyas, Munis etc with Extra Sensory Perception (Atindriya Gyan) have mentioned about it. If we trust Omniscient Ones, Acharyas, Munis, etc. to be truthful (Satya Mahavrat dhari) then we must at least think in that direction!
So to avoid these negative energies diluting the positive vibes of holy places, females in menses are discouraged from visiting temples. There is no intention to disgrace or discriminate against them. It is purely a biological and scientific decision.
Rather women in such times need to be given extra care, as these negative energies affect their mental well being also.
Can anyone check if menstruating females are allowed in sugar factories? No they are not because of the chemicals released during that time.
DeleteComparing body fluids with toxic factory chemicals in itself shows the depth, or lack of it, of your knowledge base. Please quote any scientific study to that effect.
DeleteAll body wastes are bio-degradable and cannot be classified as toxic. The very comparison is simply laughable.
I will once again emphasize that please don't treat everything 'old as gold'. There are various literatures in Jainism which have not been sourced to the Kevalgyanis and thus we need to separate out dogmas and superstitions from true spiritual knowledge.
@Anonymous..
DeleteThe basic goal of practicing Jainism is to get liberated from the cycle of birth and death and not celebrate new birth..
Vinash kalin viprit buddhi. Jab buddhi bhrasht ho jaati hai tab hi aisa sab khayal aata hai.
ReplyDeleteWe all are Jains and would agree that all the priciples of Jainism are scientific and logical. It depends on our understanding or reasoning being explained by Gyani Sadguru or wise Scolars based on scriptures.
ReplyDeleteI agree to offer comfort to females during the period but jumping to a conclusion based on our little knowledge tbat it is wrong practise could be wrong and may be disastrous by framing a wrong practise which can leat to great ashatna.
I feel we all are novice and many of us wont be able to understand deep rooted meaning of scriptures till Gyani Sadguru explains.
I think we all should find out from vaious Gyanins / Acharya bhagwants / Sadgurus, if this is mentioned in scriptures or it has just been a tradition before thiking of it as wrong.
We all will agree that as youths what we felt as restrictions by parent was understood / realized as safety precautions when we become parents or mature out. For eg. As a chold we wanted to play with aharp objects or knief and felt restricted when parenta stopped but as we grow we realized it was for our safety and not a restriction in tru sense
Lets all try and find out the actual logic behind this. May be some Guru Maharaj might say they follow as tradition that lets not accept it but gwt underatanding from other Gyanis or Achryas the actual science behind it before labelling it as wrong.
I am not for or again any view point but i feel out of mass discussion we might conclude wrong which might lead irreparable loss or ANANTANUBANDHI karmabandh to us and all so insread of concluding we should consult wise people who hace very deep knowledge and experience of Jainism priciples.
My email address is
01gandhirakesh@gmail.com
Exactly. I second you, Mr. Rakesh Gandhi!
DeleteIn the over-enthusiasm of becoming logical revolutionaries we should not forget that the Kevalgyanis, Acharyas and Sadhus of ancient times were much more knowledgeable. So the traditions set then were for some reason.
I am not saying that we should follow the traditions blindly. We must question the rationale behind them. But at the same time, have the humility to accept that we do not know the "entire truth". And so giving the benefit of doubt to the traditions, make an genuine effort to get the right rationale behind them from knowledgeable people!
I think jainism is all about realizing one's own soul..how any external conditions can affect the jin pratima which is Vitragi? As far as I know Tirthankar Mahavir never discriminated between any jeevs, whether it is male, female or neuter. All his teachings are focused on upliftment of the soul. Menstruation practices seems to be picked up from culture prevailing at that time. Till now I am not able to find any aagmic references on this practices.
DeleteThe above subject as discussed and projected is sensitive to the extent it being misunderstood by today's young generation born in Jain family.As per my humble knowledge and the way as I view it,Menstruation is a natural recurring phenomenon for all females till a certain age depending on their individual period cycle.As far as restricting entry of our all mothers,sisters and our Sadharmik shravikas to our Temples,the logic seems to be that during Menstruation impure blood is continuously flowing in their bodies affecting their own mental/physical well being along with environment surrounding them.Our Temples are hallmark of purity and piousness always.So to prevent pollution or distortion of the pious atmosphere by our Mothers,sisters during their menstrual periods,it is always better that they refrain from entrering our Temples voluntarily realizing the potential Ashatna they may otherwise do if they enter.At the end we as Jain's should always keep faith and trust on our Shastras and our Samvigna Geetarth Acharya Bhagwants for our own kalyan.
ReplyDeleteSorry, i did not like the article. The reasons stated are not as per scriptures. The answer lies in reading and understanding what the scriptures say in this behalf from the mouth of our sadhus.
ReplyDeleteShow which scriptures prohibit this before quoting them.
DeleteI too am really interested in knowing which scriptures mention these practices...
DeleteI very much appreciate the progressive — and clear — point of view. It’s long overdue for Jainism to discard this nonsensical and blatantly discriminatory practice.
ReplyDeleteCould we add any references (or lack of) from Agams or any other prominent canonicals to support this point of view?
ReplyDeleteIts a very well explained article and adding a touch of authenticity would help many readers shift their dogma with no confusion. Without it, it would appear as writers point of view (nay). Pl
Thought provoking article- body as it is impure be it a man’s body or a woman’s “ ati ghinavani deh dhare durgandh nivasa”
ReplyDeleteI agree with one of the comments- be it a woman or a man - if they have a bleeding wound they shall not perform puja- taking a cue from one more comment - during monthly cycle the bleeding occurs because the egg is destroyed- so this can be seen as “ paatak “ - why do we not touch anything in Mandirji if there is a birth or death in the family. “Swadhyaya” “ aatmachintan” should never stop -period or no period - darshan or no darshan.
The topic should have focused more on restrictions at home during menstrual cycle than puja, prayers, temple, etc.
ReplyDeleteWhat are the reasons for women to not enter the kitchen during menstrual cycle ?
What are the reasons for women to not touch any thing in the home like clothes, food items, etc during the menstrual cycle ?
Can I request the author to focus more on these ?
The authors are themselves not qualified enough to talk on those topics. But its their sheer egotism that they are trying to become self certified authoritarians on such subtler topics. As it is said... Half cooked knowledge is more dangerous!!
DeleteSo stop following published material of these silly self certified "know all" authors. Look for right knowledge from some legitimate and qualified source.
Half cooked knowledge? Sorry to remind you that None of us are Omniscient (even you the all mighty all knowing Rohan). You act as if you have some claim to speak on behalf of gnani. You don’t. Just because you have an opinion doesn’t make it right. And when someone else tries to understand truth, you get all bent out of shape. Fragile ego? Can’t handle it, huh?
DeleteExactly, you nailed it right "None of us are Omniscient"
DeleteSo have some respect for the Omniscient one and the more knowledgeable gyanis!
As far as I am concerned, I am ignorant being and I am not making any opinion, forget about asking you to follow mine.
I am only objecting to the opinions being made here by the non-Omniscient authors.
I am not speaking on behalf of any Gyani. Rather I am saying go to a Gyani and get your knowledge certified!
Jai Jinendra 🙏
ReplyDeleteDear sirs and Madams..
I feel.. there soon will be a day when we are going to think that ALL OUR RITUALS... ALL OF THEM..are Nonsensical. It's not our fault exclusively, these things will happen as Avasarpini progresses..
Anyways..
Here's my take..
You see, when we sleep.. there's this thing called ' TamoGuna' which upsurges in our whole physiological, psychological and complete goddamn Existential body.. which is BAD..
-I'm not gonna go into what TamoGuna Is.. you could Google those things.-
So that's why, before doing our puja abhishek.. we are advised to take baths. Just so we remove that increased 'Tamas' in our body. That's why our ancestors warned us against even consuming or cooking before we take baths..
So similarly, when women go through this menstrual cycle.. theres this increased ' Tamas ' in their body(s). And that is why.. they are not allowed to be near our holy idols.
If you feel it's wrong.. do whatever you want to do.. even take it one step further I say.. stop even taking baths before worship.. just get up in the morning and sit for puja/Abhishek straight away..
Thanks for reading. This is what I feel.. Michchhami Dukkaddamm if I have been unpleasant.. 🙏
Ahimsa Paramo Dharm Ki Jai ।।
This article is ridiculous, you should refrain from sharing such information which manipulates individuals thought process.
ReplyDeleteJainism is not about sharing individuals opinion, it should focus more on what is written in shashtra (which in turn is in alignment with tirthnkars).
Nothing is above gyan shared by tirthankars.
Show us the shashtra which supports such ignorance. Please enlighten us?
Delete@Indian wedding observer
DeleteHahaha... Calling it "ignorance" even before reading the shastra shows your prejudice. Develop a learning attitude first dude!
The writer of this article and the publisher of this site, whosoever they are, need to first understand that there are several Metaphysical Sciences which are not comprehensible by mere sensory organs. So this futile exercise of judging everything by your limited logical understanding is nothing but stupidity, childishness and egotism.
ReplyDeleteEven science has not yet been able to discover the subtle truths of Energy Levels and Vibrations. Do you think, with your incomplete knowledge of science itself, are qualified to even discuss (forget about correcting and changing) the traditions made by the Acharyas and Munis of past who had Atindriya Jnan (Extra sensory perception) and knowledge of the Subtle truths which are beyond sensory cognition? Do you know how leshyas are affected during menstrual cycle? Do you know how the positive vibrations are retained over the years in Marble structure and caves? Do you know how the leshyas affect those positive vibes? Without knowing all these subtler sciences, becoming the self certified authoritarians of cultures and traditions is nothing but pure egotism.
While it is good to question the logic behind the traditions, rather than blindly following those, it is worse and more harmful to judge things based on your limited knowledge and logic. You guys need to realize that there are subtler sciences which you or even the material science and technology in today's world hasn't been able to fathom yet.
So question is how do we learn about those subtler sciences? The answer to that is subtler sciences are experienced by going into deeper levels of meditations. There are Gyaani's even today who have experienced those subtler sciences. You guys need to find one of those and seek guidance from them regarding these traditional practices. Develop an attitude to "learn" rather than making noise like empty vessels.
Your own attitude shows much ignorance.
DeleteIndeed, I am ignorant! Did I claim to be a Kevalgyani?
DeleteBut at least I am aware of my ignorance. Hence I am not making authoritarian statements like these authors with unqualified status!
Rohan D, thanks for putting it so beautifully. I share the same views and thoughts, but could not put it across so nicely.
DeleteThank you for bringing defiant rational and irrational well educated Jains; including those self-proclaimed devout Jains; on the right thought track.
ReplyDeleteSorry to say that the writers of this blog and their advisor is not qualified enough to act like authoritarians on this subject. Their reasoning in this article shows their immaturity and lack of knowledge on various subjects. So a humble request to them, rather than making noise like empty vessels, seek to gain maturity and knowledge of subtler sciences.
ReplyDeleteWhile it is good to seek the reasoning behind the traditional rituals and practices, it is foolish to believe that whatever fits in your limited logic is the whole truth! There are sciences which are subtler and experienced by extra sensory perceptions (Atindriya Gyan - in Jain terminology). Have you guys experienced those subtle truths? No. Right? Then stop acting as Authoritarians and misleading people.
The traditions around menstrual cycle are not made to insult, shame or degrade women. If you perceive them such, then you first need to change your understanding!
Secondly, along with the bleeding etc. that happens at the physical level in women, there are corresponding impacts on the subtler energy levels of their body. Whereas the temples and holy places are called sacred because those carry the positive energy and vibes created there due to various reasons (not going into the details of why temples carry positive energy. Its a separate topic). These positive vibes are not visible to naked eyes, but the presence of those can be inferred from the fact that we feel peaceful and joyful at such places (if you have ever cared to experience such subtle feelings within you at such places. If not, it further accentuates the fact that you guys are not authorized to publish such material).
Now taking both the facts together it is common sense that the subtle positive energies would get diluted by the negative energies emanating from a woman who is menstruating. Mind you, there is no disgracing the woman here. It is pure biology!!
And sorry to say that arguments like "Derasar is the place of our vitraagi tirthankara, who are above kind of aversions or attachments, so again how can it affect them or their residence?" are purely childish, immature and laughable!! Vitraagi Tirthankaras are on Siddh Shila. Your temple is not their "residence". Temple is for you to do sadhana there and take steps towards attaining Vitraagta. And in this Sadhana, the subtle positive vibes are helpful. So try to preserve these vibes and don't make a loss for yourself by harming these vibes due to your childish behaviour!
Oh dear. Your venomous reactions are seething with ignorance. I fee sorry for your suffering.
Delete@Indian wedding observer
DeleteHahaha... And your desperateness to call opinions contradicting to yours as "ignorance" shows your suffering! Feel sorry for you dude!!
Excellent blog to review pros and cons of this very interesting topic. Certainly we need to get input from a very learned person who has in depth knowledge of scriptures. My little understanding may me think, that there is no mention about women's mensuration restriction of not able to practice Jainism. Moreover I understand that in Sthanakvasi sect, since there is no temple and no puja, that there is no restriction in going to Upasara to hear the Guruji's preachings during such times. The whole concept of various Puja's were subsequently added to the Jain rituals and hence various traditions subsequently added to these rituals as my simple understanding goes. Also just a thought, our monks (Sadhus and Sadhvijis) they reside in Upasaras and temples and not necessarily bath on regular basis - yes, they do wash themselves with wet cloth or towel but bathing like what we as Jains do on regular basis is not normally done. This is my basic understanding.
ReplyDeleteMore over in basic Jain understanding and practicing bhav karma, dravya karma and nokarma and path towards purity of eternal atma is the main purpose and all activities towards such should be the goal!
But again - I would like to thank Jaina was bringing this topic for discussion.
'Navra betha nakhod vaare' is the only statement I can make about these blog owners.
ReplyDeleteNo wonder the doors of moksha are closed due to the current generation of 'tarkik or logic seekers' - who would question Jain beliefs but happily accept 'man landed on the moon' and earth rotates around the sun' without any questions
It is really wonderful article.
ReplyDeleteBut before you read my comment I would request you to know who is writing it here.
My ID on Facebook ❤️
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100011737817626
I was very keenly reading the article especially from the medical points of view and both modern medicine and from ayurvedic points of view. Are not both the relevant to this topic. Especially when I am concerned with Indian philosophies and Indian culture.
I have had improper information about Jainism and still have but not because of Jainism itself but the propagation people make about Jainism. But this article is really an answer to all the Hindus like me ,a Brahmin what is the logical and perhaps the most logical approach to the issue. There is no place of emotions to be applied for a creature who has got birth on this earth not by her will, called women having menstruation. Is a popular thinking the justice is between all the two extremities the only yardstick to find the truth . Think oh ye all the men would you have had the same thought , regarding the issue ,had you been a woman? We cannot be hypothetical and wise. Can we? I never expected this kind of write up on this topic and at this place. But it is really logical because traditional people living in the USA they have to face it. On the one side is your ardent beliefs and on the other side is sheer feminism. I really thank the writer about this very beautiful very important very wise information. I wish the Sanatanees of hindu dharm would even read it ,if not like it. Jai Jinendra.(no shame for me to pray the omnipresence in the jain
Expression.)
I have not gone through all the comments of the people but of course have find some rhetorical submissions. These are the people who are from the soil where Rabindranath Tagore spoke about open mindedness. And I wonder if the religion gives them power of open thinking or box thinking. I believe it is not the religion but the religion mongers give them their thinking. Love.
ReplyDeleteYes.No gender discrimination should be there
ReplyDeleteDear author and all who have commented, please see this youtube link
ReplyDeletehttps://youtu.be/ATTDgSyDLoc
Detailed explanations are given.
All forefathers had some practices for a reason. It may seem illogical to all of us educated in the macaulay english medium. Go deep and you will understand. Many who try to justify these practices superficially without actually knowing the hidden reason.
Jai jinendra
I do agree wholeheartedly with the summary and the itemised discussion about the possible reasons put forward in support of the existence of this practice and the explanation of those fallacies.
ReplyDeleteI've long found the "impurity" argument to be nonsensical. (Apologies to those who are seeking perspectives only from "learned" teachers, since I clearly am not one. But I'm going to share my opinion nonetheless).
ReplyDeleteIf
1) the temple is a place of purity, and
2) people who are "impure" should not enter, and
3) thoughts are more powerful than words or deeds (what I was taught at Patshala back in the day), 4) then anyone with "impure" thoughts should be barred from entering the temple -- right?
So, what of the wealthy donors who want to announce a big public donation to the Jain center on Mahavir Jayanti day? They should be barred, as clearly they are driven by ego (to some degree). But instead they are celebrated.
What of the dozens of people lining up to "win" the gheeboli to do puja for Laxmi, as if she'd shower them with wealth and good fortune? Sounds pretty selfish to me -- they're out. But yet at least 25% of the Jain center population lines up to "win" this honor whenever the chance arises.
Last time I checked, virtually every big Jain center event featured people dressed to impress in their finest silk (ouch) and loads of extracted metals and minerals (and who knows if they came from conflict zones - yikes!) Should they be banned too?
What if someone (gasp) ate some onions a few hours before arriving at temple (or something even more un-Jain?) Clearly they're carrying impurity into the building. Banned, right?
If you're going to start playing the "impure" card, this is a very steep and very slippery slope. We're all impure in some way. So shouldn't we all be barred from the temple? Or, are the purists going to draw the line at menstruation? Experiencing a biological process for which the person has no control is grounds for being barred, but strutting in with ego in full effect looking to show off to others is a-ok! Sorry, sounds like some clear-cut sexism going on.
In short, if purity is the standard to walk in the door, then no one is getting inside. Period.
To all the authors, advisers and commenters on this forum... Just a humble request.
ReplyDeletePlease be aware that Utsutra Prarupna is one of the gravest sin as described in Jain Canons and it entails severest of Karmabandh!
So would request you all to consult the Subject Matter Experts on these topics for right understanding before making opinions published on public domains! If even one person is misguided due to your opinions which may be in contrast to teachings of Tirthankar Bhagwans, then you ll end up accumulating worst forms of Karmas.
So please hold on to your horses, seek better knowledge from right sources.
Absolutely agree with you
Deletedo whatever you think right. as no gyani is present in current era. you can not confirm it as gods statement as these are from books written by normal ppl and lahiyas(writers). one god is sitting inside you . and alow him/her to take disigen as he/she thinks right for you. we have practice to inform muni/sadhviji about it and they request them to come 5 minuits late. meantime they read agam gathas and then no agams reading of mul path (scripts). but as I say do whatever you think fit in this case. no objection at all to anybody following or not following this tradition. Every sentence we can not accept blindly . just bcos it is written in scripts. we have mind and above that saul to think and accepts. no pudgal(matter) is powerfull then saul . so follow your sauls voice. jai jinendra
ReplyDelete@Unknown
DeleteYou said "do whatever you think right. as no gyani is present in current era"
This is incorrect. Gyanis are present in the current era. This is 5th Ara. So there wont be Kevalgyanis. But Samyakgyanis and Atindriya Gyanis are still present in current times too. You need to find one.
Heard,do not know yet, right or not, but our all 24 Tirthankaras are Man, and not a single woman because of that ladies problem of menstruation, however, our Mallinath swami Tirthankara was originally woman, called and known as "Mallibai" and over attaining to kevalgyan, or reaching to ultimate stage of enlightnment, it was difficult for her(Mallibai)however she changed sex from woman to Man, and became Mallinath and was included in 24 Tirthankara these all indicates that Menstruation was the biggest problem for reaching stage of Tirthankara, rest is the story...
ReplyDeleteYou say that the worship of DEVI & DEVTA got introduced in 6-7th century. In those days the sthapana of the same would not be in derasars too, but now there is.
ReplyDeleteThe article seems to ignore a lot of facts.
ReplyDeleteWhen you say 'The real spiritual growth impediments do not reside in any outward physical form, but instead in our inner state of being when it takes on the forms of ego, greed, deceit, or anger', the temple/derasar doesn't hold any great significance in attaining Nirvana as NO TIRTHANKAR ATTAINED NIRVANA FROM ANY TEMPLE.
So we should not see this as an issue that who is allowed to Temple and who is not.
Temple is physical and our body too. So our soul's purity/impurity doesnot licence us to enter Temple.
Be it men or women, its about impurity flowing out of our body which matters. As per my knowledge, Any man with runny nose/bleeding wound should also not enter the temple.
I agree with the poeple who say this is a biological/natural process and no one has control over manstruation. But in that case (it may sound rude) have a look at karma theory(as per Jainism). A lion, who cannot have a vegetarian diet at all by nature, is also sent to Hell(Narak) for being voilent. So if some soul born as a women, is because of her and only her deeds(Karma).
I agree with the people, who would say manstruation is not the only impurity. (As mentioned by some comments), Someone gasp onion/non-veg and come to temple should also be banned. Definitely, the person should be banned. But as per my observations, no one at Temple checks anyone for impurities. Its always tought in our tradition.(I cannot explain all my thoughts here.)
But I have a humble request the bloggers/readers to read the 8 Karma concepts in depth to reach any conclusion on right and wrong.
Very good article.
ReplyDeletePls understand Sthanakvasi jain samaj has already stopped this virtue long time back.Sthanakvasi lady can go to upashray and can listen mantras.
They are not told in house to isolate themself. Only shewatambers are following this virtue. This really need a think and should be stopped like Sthanakvasi Jain Samaj.
Sthanakwasi people must have done so on their own. Ask any learned sthanskwasi leader to issue a statement saying that they have allowed women in periods to come in sthanaks. Im sure, no one would say so.
DeleteSimple solution is to pray mentally, no one is stopping you from doing that, it seems very good solution...
ReplyDeleteDuring the lockdown period i wished to do darshan of the siddha bhagwans, i was not able to visit temple but i was able to do darshal mentally (also now a days google has picutres of temples) so even the old people who find it difficult to pray and visit temple coukd use this solution of praying in mind, afterall what your conern is to do prayers, what if temple allows me or not, what if temple is open or not, what if you have the ability to visit the temple or not. No one can stop you from praying mentally except you, yourself... Also if youre in temple and your mind wonders somewhere else its of no use to be in temple also...
Lately, it has become a fashion to question and challange our traditions and religious practices. We want everything to have a logic and scientific explanation.
ReplyDeleteWe question our practices, but we blindly follow what science and scientists say, without realizing that science is an ever-evolving field in which the process of research and experimentation goes on continuously. Even after science comes up with the particular theory, the process of research and experimentation on that subject does not stop Today, science may offer us a particular theory, but tomorrow it can annul the same theory citing 'updation' of research.
For instance, when we were in school, we were made to believe that there are nine planets. However, now, due to some reasons, 'Pluto' has lost its credibility to be called a planet and hence the children today are taught that there are only eight planets.
Don't be surprised if tomorrow we are told that some new planets have been discovered and so the tally of planets has increased. Likewise, we can find many other examples wherein with the passage of time, science takes a U-turn.
Scientific theories are never 'final', they are never 'ultimate'. They rarely stand the test of time. This is because scientific theories are based on a host of assumptions. Any student of science would agree on this. If, due to any reason, any one or few or all the assumptions of a theory are proved wrong, then that whole theory comes crashing down.
On the other hand, whatever had been told by our tirthankars is 'final'. They are the ones who have attained the ultimate knowledge called 'kewalgyan'. Just imagine, through this knowledge they told lakhs of years ago that plants have life. They minutely described the forms of living organisms. Without the presence of any scientific instruments, they told about the presence of micro-organisms, which cannot be seen with the naked eye. Such is the depth of the knowledge of a tirthankar. It took science thousands of years of experimentations and a host of scientific instruments to tell all this. The knowledge shared by the tirthankars is not based on any assumption. Their word is final, whether or not we are able to see any logic in it.
If we are not able to see any reason or logic in any practice, that is our short-coming. That means that our knowledge and understanding has not reached that level where can find logic in that particular practice. Is it necessary that to follow any practice, we have to cumpulsorily be able to find logic in it? What if, tomorrow science finds some logic in the practice that mensurating women should not participate in religious ceremonies. Afterall, as I said, science is not and will never be 'ultimate'. In my view, some things are better followed blindly.
What explanation does science has behind idol-worship? Tomorrow, we may even start questioning our other practices and beliefs too. The truth is that whatever practice we find difficult to follow/ implement, we find it covinient to question its very basis.
I am not against science. But I believe that benefits of science should be used for ones comfort. In the shadow of scienfic theories, our age old relegious practices and beliefs should not be questioned.
True religion is grossly diluted & distorted & interpreted to comforts & covenience, that is why we find so many groups with diverging beliefs, all claiming then to be true followers of jainism.
DeleteSince power to convince is missing fear of almost everything is used to weaken & dominate masses
Jainism has influenced and has been influenced by religious rituals of Vaishnavism over the centuries. Some believe that even the concept of Puja and Aangi were brought in from other side. Vaishnavism imported concept of fasting and various austerities from Shraman Sanskruti i.e. Jainism.
ReplyDeleteNot allowing women in menses state is an import from Vaishnavism. There could be some hidden science or pure social construct for this practice....hence we must look for answers in Vaishnavism. I spoke to some people for the same and they said "If a menstruating women touches a Tulsi Plant, the plant withers away by her touch." If that is so, then some deep science is involved. Due to sacredness of Tulsi Plant in their homes, no one ever dared to experiment or investigate this statement.
The women are not even allowed in the kitchen for 3 days, because according to their beliefs it affects the cooked food in negative way.
Menstruating women are strictly not allowed to come near the Naivedya prepared for offering as prasad.
There is a recent incident from Temple of Puri, where Prasad is called "Kaivalya".
One Hindu woman coming from abroad entered the Temple premise in menses state and entire food for thousands of people became spoilt and was needed to be cooked again. So there is a very high probability of some science involved.
On other hand Kamakhya Temple in Assam a Shaktipeeth celebrates Menstruation of Goddess.
The Temple was in news for huge donation of Gold by Shri Mukesh Ambani recently.
Summing up, this issue needs more thoughtful and scientific investigations without any bias and respecting sentiments of both sides.
Rajeshji, your point is valid. The reason for tulsi plant is explained in https://youtu.be/ATTDgSyDLoc
DeleteA few points.1)Temples and idols did not exist at the time of mahavira.They came later.2)I know of two Jain scholars who do not go into temple because they have a colostomy bag.It is choice they have made themselves.3)My mother is in her nineties and is not mobile.We therefore pray ,do swadhyai and read together!In the time of covid 19 we would not be allowed into the temple anyway!The point is it is not absolutely necessary to visit a temple.There are so many wonderful resources available ,especially online ,to progress further in the spiritual path.
ReplyDeleteThis article has touched a nerve and so many wonderful points have been raised.
There is a lack of and affordability of hygiene products for menstruating girls , especially in the low income countries.In Scottish schools these products will be provided free of charge.
The comments highlight the fact that there is so much we can do to improve the lives of young girls and women .(education, alleviation of poverty,enhance equality etc)
The standards by which people could keep clean, whether menstruating or not, have improved dramatically over the past 5,000 years if not just the last 30 years. This is an archaic practice that should be discarded. Women are not using rags anymore and largely, have access to sanitary supplies and washing machines. Even the practice of "Clean clothes" for puja when an older article of clothing can be pristine after a machine wash is nonsensical. And do Jain slum dwellers have access to clean clothes? Are they not allowed to practice?. Jainism will not survive if our gurus and religious teachers cling to and teach these archaic practices. Religion needs to evolve and make sense.
ReplyDeleteWomen are still sit in corner not to cook?
ReplyDeleteWell I have seen this in my childhood. If it is still in practice I am very ashamed that I have wasted my life where everything is rock = dead. Stone aged?
Its an excellent article...I would like author to add some scriptural references with time period if possible so that it becomes more acceptable.
ReplyDeleteI have been looking for the logical answer to this question since so many years. Inspite of asking many scholars no one is able to give me any scriptural references where these practices are mentioned.
I have not asked any sadhu/sadhviji bhagvant fearing they might feel my intention is not to follow tradition and hence looking for justification.
With whatever little I have read or understood about jainism, it is mainly about your one's journey to win over four passions and achieving purity of soul. Deraser is a place which helps one to achieve this goal. And if woman is sychologically down, going to deraser should actually benefit her to gain back the normalcy. What is the advantage in prohibition?
Ideally according to jainism, tirthankar parmatma is in moksha. He is unaffected by any of our rituals. Our rituals are for our soul. Tirthankar pratima is "aalamban" that some of us may require. So how physical condition of menuration would affect?
My intention to write here is not the debate. People can have different opinions and beliefs. But I would love to know if anyone can justify following of menstruation practices along with scriptural refreshing.
Somebody has provided this link of YouTube
ReplyDeletehttps://youtu.be/ATTDgSyDLoc
I think I should go back to college again to learn Ayurved. Or enhance my knowledge about Ayurved thru You tube after MD and PhD and spending life in Gujarat ayurved university Jamnagar institute of postgraduate teaching and research. The dilemma is there is no rule who can say write and publish any material on social media without qualifications and permissions standards set cetera. Love
Detoxification is a continuous phenomena happening around all living beings to maintain innate health bestowed by almighty nature, in the form of exhalation, urination, excretion, if in excess then sweat, cold, cough, fever, vomiting, loose motions, gas, pus etc. Also mental toxins are accumulated in huge huge quantities.
ReplyDeleteFirst three are normal & are released by body at regular intervals, others depends toxin accumulation & our immune power.
Menstruation is also toxin released by body at much lower frequency. Quantity & pain associated depends on diet consumed. Consuming unnatural animal based diet, cooked food grains is one of the major for excessive, painful periods.
FEMALES ON RAW VEGAN DIET HAVE VERY HEALTHY EXPERIENCE, AT TIMES SMOOTH PAINLESS DISCHARGE, AT TIMES JUST SPOTS, AT TIMES NIL.
According to me beliefs of periods are mere traditions with good & bad intention.
Good: Rest, cleanliness & hygiene
Bad: Fear,Suppress,Exploit & domination by males.
Temples are places of purification both physical or mental
Most of us ( Males & Females) are toxified & are diseased physically & mentally.
Does it mean they should not visit temples?.
We have grossly misinterpreted Mahaveer & his scientific teachings.
We are following grossly wrong diet system in the name of religion. its high time for us to come out of wrong traditions, understand, apply TRUE SCIENTIFIC RELIGION & experience miraculus benefits of HEALTH,HAPPINESS & BLISS.
I have applied & experienced, so can everybody.
RAS TYAG, VIGHAI TYAG & FRUITARIAN DIET.
Pradeep Shah
Mumbai
09096697773
Jai Jinedra,
ReplyDeleteIn old days, it is difficult to manage bleeding and other things, so there may be chances of spooling of floor and other part.
In that sense it was consider as impurity
Second thing may be, need of Rest.
As everyone has to follow ritual everyday and when you cant do it , one may feel some guilt by self also and by society also so they make generalised rule, person during this period is not allowed to do this
Many retails started for noble purpose but with the time initial purpose get change and some impurity enter in concept.
For example, in most of family responsibilities of hone and child is on female part and outer work is on male
This is a system but not thumb rule to follow every time and in every situation.
We have brain and need to utilise it to analyse situation, just not like follow blindly .
A big kudos and thanks for this highly needed article.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, let's see what are the two most popular sanskrit/hindi words for menstruation? 1. Rutustrava 2. Maasik dharma. The first one describe a normal process that takes place every month (a period); the second word includes the word "dharma." Why this word dharma in this context and what does it mean here??? Let us all think about it.
Jain dharma, a religion whose foundation is based on rationality that could think about the existence of non-violence towards even one-sense life forms on earth, can that very religion discriminate and isolate menstruation because it involves realize of human blood?
What is the point of taking pride in the rational and anekantic ideology of jain dharma if we still takes menses as a taboo and impurity. Rather, menses is the sigh of purity.
A religion whose heart is the emphasis on Soul and not on body, should the adherents of that religion still be thinking a bodily process as impure ? What logic!
On the contrary, adherents of jain dharma should provide an example, and set an example for other traditions by allowing menstruating women to take part in any social or religious activities. What can we teach others by our own doings?
This very practice of isolating or restricting menstruating women from doing religious activities is worst than the Dalit pratha. This is certainly a discrimination and it is against fundamental human-rights.
This sentence might look glossy but it is the fact that --- if women would not have menstruated, no male (or female) would have born. A temple has never produced a child!
I have right to say this because I go through this discriminative behavior and practice ever since I got married. I am asked to sleep on floor, I can't touch anything in the house and entering a temple is the biggest crime.
If ever a group of brave women would knock the doors of law and court, people will have to allow. And allowing is still a wrong word. Who are others to allow women, it's their birth right because in jain dharma, each individual is bestowed a permission to take care of their own karma.
I think when you have infection diarrhoea dysentery influenza and many other viral or bacterial infections you are more impure. I wonder if you can do Pooja and putrify the the holy temple / surrounding.
ReplyDeleteThanks for lot of comments and views. I'd Like to provide few more insights - which may answer lot of questions that were posed to the authors.
ReplyDelete1) This questions and it's analysis is pertaining to a cultural tradition. Those who are asking or saying that we should not change any Jainism or religious belief - well... FYI any original AGAM or sacred literature does not mention about any such restrictions. Jainism is all about the soul and it's goal of Liberation. So please understand that lot of rituals , traditions and restrictions got mixed up historically because we are part of Indian civilization. Don't confuse it with principles of Jainism.
2) Lot of questions were raised about knowledge of Author. Well if you read the article, this and others , and even the first article of this whole blog, we have clearly defined who the author is and how we put the article. Most of authors are Jain Pathashala teachers , teaching in US Jain Centers / local students for 10+ years atleast. Each article goes through multiple discussios and reviews and at certain level discussed with scholars in India and in US. We are proud of our committee members who have again and again learned, analyzed and placed an article while at the sametime overcoming their own set of thinking.
3) Some of you went on in detail that we are seeking to challenge all our tradition and religious practice - well so be it. It's about the soul's spiritual growth , anything else if hinders that growth need to be analyzed. As Mahavira said that - the knowledge will be yours only if you understand it with logic. And, further, Science has evolved and will continue to evolve.. but there is nothing to do with science here. Historically there has been restrictions due to whatever reason, if that restriction is not valid or blocker for ones spiritual growth - then we better might discuss it and leave it behind. Some people referrered to physical/mental limitation due to this natural process, now here one can use individual discretion, and not need an institutional or community wide restriction.
4) We are also very happy to see lot of positive comments and logical explaination. Again, we just are placing an important question and it's analysis as per Jainism , which a lot of young generation kids are asking. Today while some of scholars and learned have avoided to even discuss about it - we try to analyze it from perspective of the core of Jainism and get it reviewed by other Learned before posting.
Micchami Dukkadam
Raj
I am impressed by the comments of Shri Raj. What an explanation!. I belong to Sanatana Hindu Brahmin. I wish and hope they, my lot, could take some introspection from these discussions. I do not know if they are habitating in the United States and if they are evolving like this or they are adherent to their old stigma.
ReplyDeleteIn general, the body is considered as made of impure materials like bones, blood, puss, urine, faeces, cough, pitta etc.. Yes, blood and bones too. Would you bring a deadman's skull to a temple? That is why 12 Bhavnas include Ashuchi Bhavna which thinks of this body as impure. The soul is pure. However, a pure soul doesn't need temple even. Visiting temple is is vyavhar kriya(symbolic kriya). Symoblic kriya are from the perspective of of the current state of the soul which is bound with the body which is impure. As long as the impurity is contained within the body, it is ok to visit temples. Whether it is male or female, if any of these impurities can't be contained within the body it would be considered as neglectful to visit a temple until the body can heal and contain the impurities within the skin.
ReplyDeleteAs a naive and a person belonging to section A(mentioned initially) ... I think if as a man /women we are not allowed to touch the idol /enter the temple while we are peeing ,pooping (nope,it's not an "impurity" ) it's a natural , essential process ,yes!!!! It's common sense to not do the same while menstruation!!!
ReplyDeleteAnd for people who think why should we not enter temples whilst pooping, menstruating it's because the Tirthankars ,for us are- the stage we have to eventually reach , supremely , sacred and respectful hence show as much respect as possible by every action of ours !
Like in olden days evryone would have their heads covered (after a certain age/adolescence) with saree/dupatta/turban etc in the name of respecting elders , as a part of a certain community... The actually reason was to protect our heads from being affected by the air around us ,emotionally and physically! And when in the name of modernization people stopped wearing them and faced problems ,,,they started wearing scarfs, caps etc while driving , walking in sun ....
Yaa toh bado ki baat/experience sunn ke seekho,, ya fir khud bhoogat/jhel(experience kar) ke seekho !!!
Your call at the end of the day!
The discussion seems be coming to a conclusion...
ReplyDelete- That our practices and rituals can be altered as per our own sweet will.
- That whatever doesn't suit us or cannot be understood by our limited knowledge and understanding, is untrue.
- That all our practices must necessarily pass the test of logic.
- That whatever practice is difficult to follow/implement must be done away with.
- That, in the name of gender inequality, any practice can be challanged.
- That our religious pratices can be challanged by anyone.
- That being progressive means labelling our practices as frivolous and outdated.
- That our religious scriptures and religious leaders (acharyas/sadhu/sadhviji) can be given a go-by and instead the teachers of pathshalas in the US can raise and give their verdict on any topic.
If the teachers of pathshalas consider themselves qualified enough to raise and give their verdict on a topic as sensitive as this, then it would be better to initiate a discussion after taking all such teachers on board (from across all countries). Why have just a handful of people deciding on such a topic?
Those who are talking about science should know that science can't explain reincarnation, kaivalgyan, heaven and hell out even the theory of karma.
ReplyDeleteThese things are beyond the senses and thus beyond science. If you're so hell bent on finding a JADA logic of things, religion is far from you. Stopping women from going to temples during mensuration is NOT disrespecting them. Western feminist thinkers raise such issues which basically come from negation of the idea of religion itself. Those who are not religious, don't need to go to temples at all...
Jai Jinendra
ReplyDeleteAs a natural process, our body is designed to throw out everything that is no more useful to it and it does it by various means. E.g. carbon-di-oxide, dead skin, pee, poop, sweat, mucus, menses fluid, etc. We term these as either waste or dead or impure or toxic, etc. Whatever way we call them, the essence is that they are all unwanted and cause negative feeling affect when we see any of them.
All these are natural processes, but obviously there is a difference between how each one of them is perceived. A person who is sweating is also throwing out toxic/impure/waste/dead (whatever we term it as) substance out of the body similar to a person who is menstruating. However if a person sweats inside a temple and few drops fall on the floor, it is considered ok and no one really sees it as an issue, on the other hand it would be a chaos. It is impossible change this perceptions of people. It is impossible for people to agree that it is fine if temples get stained by menses fluid.
For a moment, lets assume that the jain religious leaders accept that it is fine to enter the temple and perform all normal activities any time without any restriction with respect to menstruation. They can use their own discretion depending on their physical/mental status during the period. I am sure everyone would agree that there is a possibility of instances where in some one did not follow proper hygiene and as a result stained the temple. Moreover, no one knows when one would start menstruating. It always happens suddenly right ? What if it starts off when one is doing pooja inside the temple and there is no protection worn and a few drops fall off ? How will such instances be managed ? Who will clean the mess? Who will be held responsible ? What kind of psychological memories it will leave in people's minds who witnessed it ?
Some rules have to be made blanket. There cannot be conditions and discretions.
Why do we have a rule that only after you are 18 years old you can get a driving licence or the power to vote or get married. Because we all know that if we relax this with conditions and discretions, there will be chaos.
Thanks to the author and people running this blog. There is logic in whatever the authors have said but it is better that the restrictions with respect to menstruations remain as they are because of the consequences, at least for the places of worship.
Micchami Dukkadam
Okay so sir being a jain i have learned alot from my gurus and dada and family so as per my knowledge first of all about sweat skin pee and all you’re speaking about so let me clear you that it is told to us and strictly followed that if we are sweating we have to take a bath and enter the temple if we have walked a distance and entering temple then we have to wash our feet and all to your such questions now second thing about pee sneeze and all we cannot stop them right thats why during our biggest festival and holy festival or any of the tithi of chaudas we have to do pratikraman where we ask for an apology for doing so so there is no point and if sweat or anything falls into the temple the poojari or person itself cleans it and has to plead for apology into pratikraman which today’s world has forgot and they blindly blame that its just for women let it be men or women anyone rules are same now talking about menstruation so its a biological process which women go through so any from of blood coming out of a body then that body is restricted to enter the temple let it be men or women but women have that monthly process so it came into light but if a man has even lightest of wound and it bleeds then they are restricted to enter the temple and you are asking about what if women start menstruating into the temple so if you have studied jainism then women knows their menstruation dates so to avoid menstruating in temples they do not do pooja(but enter the temple) two-three days before and after the menstruation and whatever your allegations are that sweating peeing sneezing and all all in temple is ok is all false because me studying the preachings and books of jainsim have learnt and observed that men and women both have restrictions and if anything such happens inside the temple they have to plead for an apology during the pratikraman amd you call it impure or natural or anything but it is done to avoid to disturb the positive vibrations and peace of the temple let it be men or women so don’t be in a false state of mind
DeleteGood very logical I never thought if somebody at the age of of 60 special and later especially male, has incontinence and some drops come out and drops on the floor.
ReplyDeleteNey. Not for male ? It is always intriguing non medical people advocating medical and biological arguments. There is no place of whims and preconceived notions in science.
Submitted with respects. 🙏
I had the same thoughts, really. If a person has Diarrhea or even nausea & never knows when the flow may start, he would be stopped from going to the temple or taking part in any religious ceremony. It would also mean that a woman may pad herself well to guarantee no spills & then decide to take part in the ceremony or festivity - then there should be no objection.
DeleteIf you really want to know the science and culture behind Menstruation and the related practices please do watch this video.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUX9BtabQfY
Have never found any better explanation, it will definitely answer all the questions regarding the practices and WHY they were/are and should be followed.
Listen and then decide yourself, especially girls who are actually wanting to know the WHY.
It is not right to comment on this topic out of ignorance in fact after reading whole I think this topic shud b researched by jain scholars from literature or th shastras where it is discussed. It is a demand of time and specifically for new young generation to know the reasons instead of accepting as rules to follow....
ReplyDeleteAs per my knowledge, it's not just menstruating women but also if u are injured and bleeding or if u have puss in ur body parts or if u r in unclean -impure clothes specially small children are not allowed to enter temples.
This comes under list of "asaatnas related to derasar". Same is with restrictions for women who delivered baby.
This topic really needs to b researched before driving jain community.
It’s a controversial topic but it needs a modern approach. Those rules were made when knowledge about such issues was very very less. Most of the general public was ignorant. Also it should be left to the individual girl or woman as to their convenience and comfort. There shouldn’t be a generalised rule. All those saying that tradition is to be followed need to understand that you need to evolve. From word of mouth, to books, to letters, to radio, tv, phone calls, mobile, email, internet the propagation of our religion has seen evolution. Sorry to say but even a few monks use phones. We shouldn’t be headstrong and try and keep an open mind.
ReplyDeleteApologies to anyone who is offended.
Michchami Dukkadam.
The jain society is confused with many traditions. What was relevant in the past is questionable today and rightly so. We can rely on wisdom of Shrimad or Dada Bhagwan as they were at very much hiher Gunsthan. We can also rely on any other person who is enlightened but not jain, Non enlightened persons interpretention can not be aunthetic.
ReplyDeleteI had a tubal July 2012 and have not felt the same since. I have horrible PMS for the entire week prior to my period, my cramping and bleeding is off the chart, migraines three times a week, hot flashes are starting. My doctor suggested getting an IUD...That was even worse DON'T DO IT!!! I have gained so much weight I weigh more than I was when I was pregnant last year. So I have been in search of weight loss and I did crossfit for 90 days with no results. Then a friend of mine introduced me to Dr Itua herbal center product and I was resistant at first but thought what the hell I will try it for 30 days. In 3 weeks time I have lost 8 pounds but the best part is some of my symptoms have gone away or are far less noticeable. I started my period three days ago and on day two I realized NO CRAMPING at all!!! Then I realized that the pms was not nearly as bad as it had been...There was no dull achy pain, no lower back pain, no deep depression, less tired. I just wanted to share this because I stumbled upon what seems to be a miracle. I will keep you posted as the months go on. I am so grateful and hope that everyone suffering can get the same relief I have found. Please email Dr Itua Herbal Center On drituaherbalcenter@gmail.com for more herbal remedy also he can cure Hiv/Aids, Herpes, Cancer, Parkinson, MS, Diabetes, Hepatitis, Fibroid, he can help with a remedy to get pregnant as well. if you want more info just contact him to share your health problems.
ReplyDeletei agree completely with you - 100%. I know the feeling because I have gone through the same. I myself dont believe in all this but I had to go through. Menstruation is natural and nothing is man made. Only these "rules"are man made. It should be only on the woman whether she wants to perform religious activities, visit a temple etc when she is in periods.
ReplyDeleteNeed to look beyond further, real Puja does not means physically touching Tirthankar's idol but mentally being able to focus on it and perform with full heart. These restrictions on women during menstrual cycle are wrong. But they don't stop them to be mentally focused on Jainism. Same applies for everyone, physically present in temple but mentally absent has no value.
ReplyDeleteI am happy this topic is raised for discussion . The discrimination done to women because of this is not good . If she has to rest those days it should be her decision . Just the way any person suffering from flu makes his or her decision whether to go to temple or not . I remember that when due to fibroids when I was bleeding heavily I could not visit temple at all . When I badly needed some positive energy . Is this fair ?
ReplyDeleteI am happy at least this question is raised .
ReplyDeleteSincere request to all of you who have posted your comments and took time to read all this. Please watch this video by Sinu Joseph and then only then post your comments. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUX9BtabQfY
ReplyDeleteThese are not only traditions or just superstitions, there's a science behind all this. Rather than claiming it wrong, one must have courage to go into the details and study it well. Else, one is going to hurt self and masses.
+100, we argue and make statements without doing any research or finding the right answers. The video brilliantly explains wisdom behind ancient practices. May be it is worth to rewrite this blog
DeleteThe personal anecdotes you shared were a powerful touch, making the issue relatable on a human level. It's crucial to break down these barriers, and your article does an excellent job of sparking conversations. Thanks for shedding light on a topic that needs more awareness, and I'm looking forward to reading more thought-provoking pieces from your blog! Visit aaryacare.com
ReplyDelete