Forgiving is freedom

A Journal of Health Psychology study of 148 people found that in those with a forgiving nature, the link between stress and illness nearly disappeared. This is what the Jain festival of Paryushan has emphasised for centuries. It is observed for eight days, reminding us that forgiveness is a way to release the burdens that weigh on the heart. We come closer to our true nature through restraint, reflection and prayer.

Unless we forgive, hurt lingers, and impressions carry forward. Most of the hurt we feel begins with misunderstandings. But when emotional residue is cleared, even if the mind recalls, we have risen above it. A forgiving heart is free, a grateful heart is content, whereas a vengeful heart is restless.

Meditation, cleaning and prayer support this inner change. With regular practice, the heart becomes simple and pure, filled with humility and sincerity. A heart soaked in gratitude towards God no longer needs to forgive, for it holds no grudges. In such a heart, there is no pride to be wounded.


Mahavir taught that forgiveness is the highest virtue and the path to liberation. Paryushan allows us to walk that same path in our lives. Forgiveness frees us, but love unites us. It lets the heart become a channel of peace for the world.