Vidhi of navkar mantra

In Jainism, the Navkar Mantra (also called Namokar Mantra or Navkar Mantra) is the most significant and foundational prayer. It is a universal prayer of reverence, not addressed to any particular Tirthankara or deity, but to the qualities of the Panch Parmesthi (five supreme beings).

Vidhi (Procedure) for Chanting Navkar Mantra

While there is no rigid ritualistic procedure (vidhi) required to chant the Navkar Mantra, Jain tradition recommends a respectful and mindful approach:

1. Purification and Preparation

• Bathing: It is ideal to bathe or wash hands, face, and feet before beginning.
• Cleanliness: Wear clean clothes; sit in a clean and quiet place.

2. Posture

• Sit in a meditative posture (Padmasana or Sukhasana), keeping the back straight.
• Face towards east or north, if possible.

3. State of Mind

• Calm your mind, let go of distractions, and focus on the intent of paying obeisance.

4. Intention (Bhavana)

• Recite with devotion (bhakti) and awareness of the meaning.
• Bring to mind the five supreme beings: Arihants, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and all Sadhus.

5. Recitation

• Chant the Navkar Mantra aloud or silently as follows:

``` णमो अरिहंताणं। णमो सिद्धाणं। णमो आयरियाणं। णमो उवज्झायाणं। णमो लोए सव्वसाहूणं। णमोकारो सव्वेसिं पणासो। मंगलाणं च सव्वेसिं, पढमं हवइ मंगलं॥ ```

Transliteration: ``` Namo Arihantanam Namo Siddhanam Namo Ayariyanam Namo Uvajjhayanam Namo Loe Savva-sahunam Eso Panch Namokkar, Savva Pava Panasano Mangalanam Cha Savvesim, Padhamam Havai Mangalam ```

6. Number of Repetitions

• There is no fixed number, but it is common to chant it 9, 27, or 108 times, depending on personal or ritualistic practice.

7. After Completion

• Sit quietly for a few moments, reflecting on the qualities of the Panch Parmesthi.
• If desired, dedicate the merit (Punya) for the welfare of all beings (Shubha Bhavana).

Important Points

• The true essence lies in reciting with devotion, humility, and awareness of the qualities being saluted.
• No elaborate offerings or rituals are required; sincerity and purity of heart are most important.
• The mantra can be recited at any time, but early morning and before sleeping are considered auspicious.

Summary

The Navkar Mantra is a prayer of obeisance. Its vidhi emphasizes purity, mindfulness, and devotion rather than ritualism. The focus is on developing virtues by revering those who have attained spiritual heights.

If you need the deeper meaning of the mantra or its significance, feel free to ask!