What is the most important mantra of Shwetambar jains and what is its full form?
Answer
The most important mantra for Śwetāmbara Jains is the Navkar Mantra, also called the Namokar Mantra.Its full form is:
Namo Arihantanam
Namo Siddhanam
Namo Ayariyanam
Namo Uvajjhayanam
Namo Loe Savva-Sahunam
Eso Pancha Namukkaro
Savva-Pavappanasano
Mangalanam cha Savvesim
Padhamam Havai Mangalam
Explanation
This mantra bows to the five supreme beings in Jain Dharma:- Arihantas – the omniscient victorious souls
- Siddhas – liberated souls
- Acharyas – spiritual teachers
- Upadhyayas – scriptures teachers
- Sadhus – monks and ascetics
The phrase “Navkar” means the mantra of nine respectful salutations.
If by “full form” you mean the expanded mantra, then the above is the complete text.
Spiritual Understanding
In Jain Dharma, this mantra is considered the highest form of reverence because it does not ask for worldly favors. It teaches:- humility
- respect for spiritual excellence
- remembrance of the pure soul
- the path to liberation
It is recited as a purification of mind, speech, and conduct.