Your question touches on a deep aspect of Jain philosophy regarding karma and the significance of the Navkar Mantra (Namokar Mantra).

Karma in Jainism: According to Jainism, karma is a subtle matter that binds to the soul due to one's actions, thoughts, and intentions (dravya-karma and bhava-karma). Each individual is responsible for their own karma, and no one else—including devas (heavenly beings), Tirthankaras, or other humans—can erase or change your karma for you. Liberation (moksha) is achieved by personal effort through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct (Samyak Darshan, Samyak Gyan, Samyak Charitra).

Navkar Mantra: The Navkar Mantra is the most fundamental and revered mantra in Jainism. It offers obeisance (namaskar) to the Panch Parameshti:

• Arihant (enlightened beings)
• Siddha (liberated souls)
• Acharya (heads of the Jain order)
• Upadhyaya (teachers)
• Sadhu (monks)

The mantra does not ask these beings to remove or change your karma. Instead, by reciting the Navkar Mantra, one expresses reverence for those who have achieved spiritual advancement and purity, and seeks inspiration from their example to progress on one's own path. The mantra is a reminder of the qualities to cultivate and the ultimate goal of liberation.

Why recite the Navkar if no one can change our karma?

• Reciting the Navkar Mantra purifies the mind, helps focus on spiritual goals, and inspires self-effort.
• It helps diminish passions (kashayas) like anger, pride, deceit, and greed, which are the root causes of karmic bondage.
• The mantra generates positive vibrations and strengthens one's resolve to follow the path of liberation, as shown by the Panch Parameshti.

In Summary: Jainism teaches that only you can change your karma through your own efforts. The Navkar Mantra is not a prayer for intervention, but a veneration of the spiritual ideals and a source of inspiration to follow the path that leads to freedom from karma.

Reference:

• Tattvartha Sutra (Jain canonical text)
• Dravyasamgraha by Acharya Nemichandra
• Commentary by Acharya Kundakunda

If you would like to know more about the meanings or benefits of the Navkar Mantra, please ask!