what is nav pad
In Jainism, "Nav Pad" (also spelled as "Navapada") refers to the Nine Supreme Entities that are central to the faith and its spiritual practices. They are venerated especially during the festival of Paryushana, but their significance is fundamental throughout Jain philosophy.
The Nav Pad are as follows:
- Arihant – Enlightened beings who have conquered inner passions and attained perfect knowledge (Kevala Jnana).
- Siddha – Liberated souls who have destroyed all karmas and reside in Siddhashila (the top of the universe).
- Acharya – The heads of Jain ascetic orders who guide monks, nuns, and lay followers.
- Upadhyaya – Spiritual teachers who teach scriptures and philosophy to monks and nuns.
- Sadhu (Sadhvi) – Jain monks and nuns who practice self-discipline and renunciation.
- Darshan (Right Faith) – Having right perception or faith in the true nature of reality.
- Gyan (Right Knowledge) – Understanding reality correctly without doubt or misconception.
- Charitra (Right Conduct) – Practicing right conduct by following the ethical and spiritual disciplines.
- Tapa (Austerity) – Practicing self-discipline and penance for spiritual purification.
These nine entities are collectively called "Navkar" or "Nav Pad," and are revered in the most important Jain prayer, the Navkar Mantra (Namokar Mantra), which salutes these nine and seeks their blessings for spiritual progress. They are considered the pillars of the Jain path to liberation (moksha).