Jītakalpa
103 verses by Jinabhadragaṇi on the ten kinds of atonement — practical wisdom for later ages.
Jīta means established practice — the customs set by wise teachers when earlier authorities are no longer available. This short work is attributed to Jinabhadragaṇi Kṣamāśramaṇa.
The story
Ten Kinds of Atonement
The Jītakalpa lists ten kinds of prāyaścitta: confession, repentance (pratikramaṇa), both together, setting aside improper items, standing in meditation, austerity, reduction of seniority, re-initiation, temporary suspension and expulsion.
They run from the lightest to the most serious.
Wisdom for Later Ages
Why was this text needed? Because as time passed, the earlier, more detailed authorities were harder to apply.
The Jītakalpa gives clear, practical guidance based on established practice, so that the community could stay disciplined and fair.
Small, Precise, Useful
It is brief — about a hundred verses — but deeply practical. It shows how Jain tradition adapts while staying faithful: new situations, old principles.
What it teaches
- There are ten graded kinds of atonement
- Established practice guides later ages
- A short, precise text can serve a whole community
How the text is arranged
A short work of about 103 verses, attributed to Jinabhadragaṇi. In some catalogues, its position in the Cheda group is held by other works such as the Pañcakalpa.
When the old roads fade, wise footsteps make a new path.
Ask yourselfWhat “established practice” in your life keeps you steady?