What is navkar mantra

The Navkar Mantra (also called Namokar Mantra or Navkar Mantra) is the most important and fundamental prayer in Jainism. It is a universal prayer that pays respect to the five supreme beings, rather than to any particular individual. The mantra is recited by Jains daily and at the beginning of all important religious activities.

The Navkar Mantra is as follows:

णमो अरिहंताणं। णमो सिद्धाणं। णमो आयरियाणं। णमो उवज्झायाणं। णमो लोए सव्वसाहूणं।

Translation:

1. Namo Arihantānām — I bow to the Arihants (the enlightened souls who have conquered inner passions).
2. Namo Siddhānām — I bow to the Siddhas (the liberated souls).
3. Namo Āyariyānām — I bow to the Acharyas (the head monks or spiritual leaders).
4. Namo Uvajjhāyānām — I bow to the Upadhyays (the teachers).
5. Namo Loe Savva Sāhūnām — I bow to all the Sadhus (monks) and Sadhvis (nuns) in the universe.

Significance:

• The mantra does not mention any specific names, thus it is universal and non-sectarian.
• Reciting the Navkar Mantra is believed to destroy bad karma and bring spiritual upliftment.
• It emphasizes reverence for the qualities of the five supreme beings rather than their personalities.

The Navkar Mantra is considered the essence of Jain teachings and is the first prayer taught to Jain children.