Step 1: Definition of Sallekhana.
Sallekhana, also called Santhara, is a Jain practice of voluntary death achieved through gradual reduction of food and liquid consumption.
Step 2: Rationale for Sallekhana.
This practice is adopted when an individual believes their life is naturally ending or when confronted with an incurable illness.
It's viewed as a method to purify the soul by detaching from worldly possessions and desires.
Step 3: Option Evaluation.
- (A) Sky-clad Jain monks: Pertains to Digambara monks, not Sallekhana.
- (B) Ekasana: Denotes eating one meal per day, not fasting to death.
- (C) Ritual fasting unto death: Accurate definition of Sallekhana.
- (D) Nirvana: Soul's liberation, distinct from Sallekhana.
Step 4: Summary.
Sallekhana represents ritualistic fasting until death, embodying detachment within Jainism.