The Navkar Mahamantra: A Timeless Spiritual Beacon of Jainism
The Navkar Mahamantra—also known as the Namokar Mantra—is one of the most sacred and foundational prayers in Jainism. Unlike prayers that focus on a creator god, this mantra is unique: it pays homage to qualities and virtues rather than a divine being. It is a chant of reverence, not petition—a spiritual salutation to those who have attained the highest state of purity and enlightenment.
The Mantra and Its Meaning
The mantra consists of nine lines, and each line has a deep philosophical and spiritual significance:
णमो अरिहंताणं
Namo Arihantanam — I bow to the Arihants, the conquerors of inner passions.
णमो सिद्धाणं
Namo Siddhanam — I bow to the Siddhas, the liberated souls.
णमो आयरियाणं
Namo Ayariyanam — I bow to the Acharyas, the spiritual leaders or heads of Jain orders.
णमो उवज्झायाणं
Namo Uvajjhayanam — I bow to the Upadhyayas, the teachers and scholars.
णमो लोए सव्व साहूणं
Namo Loe Savva Sahunam — I bow to all Sadhus and Sadhvis, the monks and nuns of the Jain community.
The mantra continues:
एसो पंच णमोक्कायो, सव्वपावप्पणासणो
Eso Panch Namokkaro, Savva Pava Panasano — These five salutations destroy all sins.
मंगलाणं च सव्वेसिं, पडमं हवई मंगलं
Mangalanam Cha Savvesim, Padhamam Havai Mangalam — Of all auspicious things, this is the most auspicious.
Core Philosophy Behind the Mantra
Non-theistic Reverence: Jainism does not believe in a creator god. The Navkar Mantra doesn’t ask for favors or boons; instead, it offers respect to virtues embodied by enlightened beings.
Universal Values: The mantra encourages humility, non-violence, truthfulness, and renunciation—values that transcend religion and time.
Spiritual Aspiration: By chanting this mantra, one aspires to follow the path of those who have attained spiritual liberation (Moksha)
Spiritual and Mental Benefit
Many practitioners believe that regular recitation of the Navkar Mantra leads to:
- Inner peace and mental clarity
- Removal of negative karma
- Increased spiritual energy
- Strengthening of one’s moral foundation
- A feeling of universal connection and compassion
Historical Significance
The Navkar Mantra dates back more than 2,500 years. Ancient inscriptions referencing it have been found on Jain temples and in early scriptures. This highlights its place not just as a prayer, but as a pillar of Jain identity and philosophy.
Global Observance
On April 9, 2025, the World Navkar Mantra Day was celebrated across 108 countries. This initiative aimed to spread awareness about the mantra’s significance and foster global unity. The event featured synchronized recitations, cultural programs, and educational sessions, emphasizing the universal values of peace, non-violence, and spiritual upliftment.
PM Modi Joins Vishwa Navkar Mahamantra Divas, Urges Nation to Embrace Nine Resolutions for a Better Future
Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Vishwa Navkar Mahamantra Divas at Vigyan Bhawan, Delhi, where he joined thousands in chanting the sacred Jain mantra, sitting among the public.
Addressing the gathering, he urged the nation to adopt nine resolutions: save water, plant a tree in one’s mother’s name, promote cleanliness, support local products, encourage ‘Desh Darshan,’ adopt natural farming, embrace a healthy lifestyle, promote yoga and sports, and help the poor.
He described the Navkar Mantra as a source of spiritual energy and a guiding force for the new generation, concluding by paying respects to the Jain community and spiritual leaders.
LINK – https://www.youtube.com/live/XXQwEP-TQsI?si=3nzcbBhuORhcwK3m
