In Jainism, the Navkar Mantra (also called Namokar Mantra) is the most fundamental and revered prayer. It consists of several lines, each venerating the Panch Parameshti (the five supreme beings). The term "Akshar" means "syllable" or "letter."

Akshar in Navkar refers to the total number of syllables or letters present in the Navkar Mantra.

The full Navkar Mantra is:

णमो अरिहंताणं। णमो सिद्धाणं। णमो आयरियाणं। णमो उवज्झायाणं। णमो लोए सव्वसाहूणं। एसो पंच नमोक्काओ, सव्वपावप्पणासणो। मंगलाणं च सव्वेसिं, पढमं हवइ मंगलं।।

According to Jain tradition, the Navkar Mantra is said to contain 68 letters (akshar) in the ancient Prakrit language. This count can slightly vary depending on different recitation traditions, but 68 akshars is the commonly accepted number.

Significance of Akshar in Navkar:

• Each syllable is considered extremely auspicious and powerful.
• Reciting the mantra, even partially (a single akshar), is believed to have merit and can purify the soul.
• Some Jain texts mention that even if one cannot recite the whole mantra, chanting a single akshar with devotion brings spiritual benefit.

Summary:

• The Navkar Mantra contains 68 akshar (syllables/letters).
• Each akshar is considered sacred and potent in Jainism.

If you want detailed breakdowns or the importance of each line or akshar, please let me know!