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Jainism is a spiritual tradition that places strong emphasis on the doctrine of karma and advocates for the development of spiritual force through personal efforts. It asserts the principle of Asarana-bhavana, which means that no external entity can provide refuge or salvation. Consequently, the role of prayers in Jainism may appear unclear, as Jains do not believe in a higher deity or any external divinity controlling their destiny. Prayer, in the traditional sense, might seem irrelevant to them for two main reasons.
Firstly, according to Jain philosophy, a soul that has attained liberation, known as Siddha, transcends all desires and motivations. Such a liberated soul is purely a knower and a seer, devoid of any personal inclinations. If prayers were to have an effect on a Siddha, it would imply that prayers could please or displease them. However, attributing human-like emotions or reactions to a Siddha contradicts the notion of their complete liberation.
Secondly, Jainism's belief in the doctrine of karma leads to the understanding that all outcomes are a result of karmic forces. Therefore, unless prayers are aligned with the principles of karma, they remain ineffectual. Jainism maintains that seeking results through prayers alone disregards the workings of karma.
However, it would be incorrect to claim that prayers have no place in Jain philosophy. Jains do not consider prayers as a means to seek favors from Siddhas or Arihants (enlightened beings). Instead, true Jain prayers are expressions of admiration and adoration for the virtues embodied by the liberated souls or Arihants. They serve as an earnest desire to cultivate these virtues in one's own life.
In fact, Jain scriptures extensively enumerate the virtues possessed by various categories of souls, such as Arihantas, Siddhas, Acaryas (spiritual teachers), Upadhyayas (spiritual preceptors), and Sadhus (ascetics). Jain prayers serve as a means to express gratitude towards these great souls and to acknowledge their virtues. They also act as a constant reminder of what made these enlightened beings great and inspire individuals to develop similar qualities within themselves. Thus, prayers in Jain philosophy serve as a tool for self-improvement and self-reflection.
It is essential to understand that the Tirthankaras and their teachings in Jainism merely guide individuals towards liberation. The actual attainment of liberation and the practical implementation of these teachings is entirely dependent on individual efforts. One can only achieve liberation to the extent of their exertion.
However, Jain philosophy emphasizes the significance of studying and respecting the path followed by those who have already attained liberation. Their path is regarded as proven, as they have personally experienced its transformative effects. Jains are deeply grateful to these enlightened souls for providing invaluable guidance. Therefore, through prayers, Jains express their gratitude, extol the virtues of these liberated beings, and aspire to develop those very virtues in their own lives. This process of prayer serves as a constant reminder of the qualities that made these beings great and aids in the cultivation of similar virtues within oneself.
It is interesting to note that the most notable Jain prayer, known as the Navakara Mantra, does not make reference to any individual, personal, or sectarian affiliation. It is a prayer that solely offers sincere veneration to the souls that have already achieved liberation or are on the path to liberation. The Navakara Mantra does not request anything in return but serves as a humble tribute to the enlightened beings who have attained the highest state of liberation.
