Answer

When you reach a Jain Mandir, the first mantra you should recite is usually the Navkar Mantra.

Navkar Mantra:

णमो अरिहंताणं
णमो सिद्धाणं
णमो आयरियाणं
णमो उवज्झायाणं
णमो लोए सव्वसाहूणं

Meaning

• I bow to the Arihants.
• I bow to the Siddhas.
• I bow to the Acharyas.
• I bow to the Upadhyayas.
• I bow to all Sadhus and Sadhvis in the world.

Spiritual Understanding

The Navkar Mantra is the most fundamental and sacred mantra in Jain Dharma. It does not ask for worldly things. It is a prayer of reverence to the highest spiritual qualities.

When entering a Jain Mandir, reciting it with humility, folded hands, and peaceful thoughts helps purify the mind and prepares you for darshan and worship.

Takeaway

As soon as you enter or stand before Bhagwan in the Jain Mandir, calmly recite the Navkar Mantra with devotion and respect.