Answer

Yes, Jain tradition strongly supports understanding Dharma, not merely reciting or performing it mechanically.

The scriptures emphasize that true Dharma involves:

• Samyag Darshan — right faith
• Samyag Jnan — right knowledge
• Samyag Charitra — right conduct

So, if a person does not understand the meaning of prayers, sutras, rituals, or teachings, their practice may become only external. Understanding the meaning helps Dharma become internal and transformative.

Explanation

In Jain Dharma, language itself is not the final goal. The goal is to understand the truth and purify the soul.

Traditionally, Jain scriptures were composed and taught in languages such as Ardhamagadhi Prakrit, Shauraseni Prakrit, Sanskrit, Apabhramsha, and later regional languages. This itself shows that Acharyas taught Dharma in languages people could understand.

A very important Jain principle is that knowledge must be understood properly. Merely hearing sacred words without grasping their meaning is not considered complete spiritual learning.

For example:

• If one recites Namokar Mantra with understanding, devotion becomes deeper.
• If one performs Pratikraman while understanding repentance, forgiveness, and self-purification, it becomes spiritually meaningful.
• If one studies sutras in translation or explanation, it can support right knowledge.

Spiritual Understanding

Practicing Dharma in a language you understand helps develop:

• Bhav — inner feeling
• Shraddha — faith
• Jnan — knowledge
• Charitra — correct conduct

However, this does not mean sacred original languages have no value. Traditional sutras and mantras are often preserved in their original form because they carry lineage, discipline, and devotional importance. But their meaning should also be learned.

Takeaway

Yes, the spirit of Jain scriptures supports practicing Dharma with understanding. Recitation in traditional language is respected, but learning the meaning in a language you understand is very important for true Jain practice.