Meru Trayodashi 2025: Date, Fasting Rules and Significance

Meru Trayodashi 2025: Date, Fasting Rules and Significance

eru Trayodashi is a sacred fast in Jainism that not only grants worldly pleasures but also helps in attaining inner peace. This year, Meru Trayodashi falls on Monday, January 27, 2025. It is believed that those who observe this fast with sincerity can achieve moksha (liberation). But do you know why this fast holds such importance? Let us explain everything about Meru Trayodashi in this article.

Why is Meru Trayodashi celebrated?

According to the Jain calendar, Meru Trayodashi is celebrated every year on the 13th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Paush. This festival commemorates the memory of Pingal Kumar. It is also the day when Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara of Jainism, attained Nirvana.

Tirthankaras are revered as spiritual leaders who establish pathways to liberation. Lord Rishabhdev, also known as Adinath Bhagwan, was the first Tirthankara in Jainism. The name "Adinath" signifies "the first," as he was the pioneer in laying the foundation for the Tirthankara tradition in Jainism.

Meru Trayodashi: Significance and Benefits

Meru Trayodashi is celebrated in honour of Pingal Kumar, who is said to have resolved to complete five Meru (a sacred ritual). During this time, he recited the mantra "Om Rahim Shrim Adinath Parangatya Namah" along with 20 Navakari (prayers).

It is believed that observing a fast on Meru Trayodashi helps devotees attain liberation. Those who successfully complete the five Meru ritual are said to achieve complete moksha. Additionally, the day is significant as it marks the Nirvana of Lord Rishabhdev, further elevating its importance.

How to Observe Meru Trayodashi?

On Meru Trayodashi, devotees undertake a waterless fast (nirjal vrat). The rituals involve placing a silver representation of five Merus before an idol of Lord Rishabhdev. One large Meru is placed in the centre, surrounded by smaller Merus. A Swastika symbol is drawn around the central Meru, and devotees perform the puja of Lord Rishabhdev.

Chanting sacred mantras during the puja is considered highly auspicious. Those observing the fast should donate to monks or perform charitable acts before breaking their fast. Only after such acts of generosity is the fast considered complete and fulfilled.

There is also a belief that individuals who undertake this fast must continue it for 13 months or even 13 years. Recitation of mantras on this day is believed to bring immense spiritual benefits.

According to ancient Jain scriptures, Lord Rishabhdev undertook extensive pilgrimages to attain Kevalgyan (omniscience). During his journey, he came across the Ashtapad mountain, where he created a symbolic cave for meditation. He meditated here for an extended period and ultimately achieved Kevalgyan and liberation.