In the Hymn of Praise that Names the Jinas (Nama-Jina Stava), doest this only include the 24 tirthankaras or also those who preserve the doctrine and those who teach in the world?
In Jain tradition, the Nama-Jina Stava (Hymn of Praise that Names the Jinas) primarily refers to the reverential hymns or verses that praise the Jinas, who are the Tirthankaras—spiritual victors who have attained kevala jnana (omniscience) and established the fourfold sangha, guiding others to liberation. Traditionally, there are 24 Tirthankaras in each half-cycle of time, and the hymn usually honors these 24.
However, Jain prayers and stutis (hymns) often also pay respects to other categories of revered beings, such as:
- Siddhas: Liberated souls who have destroyed all karmas.
- Acharyas: Heads of the Jain monastic order who preserve and interpret the doctrine.
- Upadhyayas: Preceptors or teachers who impart scriptural knowledge.
- Sadhus/Sadhvis: Monks and nuns who practice asceticism.
This fivefold veneration is known as the Pancha-Parameshti in Jainism. The most famous example is the Namokar Mantra (Navkar Mantra), which salutes all five holy beings.
But specifically, if we are talking about the Nama-Jina Stava, it focuses on the Jinas/Tirthankaras by name. Some versions may briefly acknowledge others who uphold the doctrine, but the primary purpose is to enumerate and venerate the 24 Tirthankaras.
In summary: The Nama-Jina Stava mainly includes the 24 Tirthankaras by name. Broader prayers and mantras (like the Namokar Mantra) include those who preserve and teach the doctrine, but the Nama-Jina Stava itself is primarily limited to the Tirthankaras.