Answer

“Arihant Cheiyāṇam” means:

“To the images, temples, or sacred representations of Arihants, I offer reverence.”

It is commonly understood as reverence toward the Jina/Arihant through their chaitya — a sacred place, temple, shrine, or idol associated with Arihants.

Explanation

In Jain Dharma:

• Arihant means the enlightened beings who have destroyed inner enemies such as anger, ego, deceit, and greed, and who possess infinite knowledge and perception.
• Cheiyāṇam / Chaityāṇam refers to sacred shrines, temples, or revered images connected with Arihants.

So, “Arihant Cheiyāṇam” is an expression of devotion and respect toward the sacred presence of Arihants as represented in Jain temples and idols.

Spiritual Understanding

When a Jain bows to Arihant Cheiyāṇam, the worship is not directed to stone or material objects as ordinary objects. Rather, the devotee remembers the supreme qualities of the Arihant and develops:

• Faith in the path of liberation
• Humility
• Detachment
• Inspiration to conquer inner passions

Takeaway

“Arihant Cheiyāṇam” is a devotional expression of respect toward the sacred temples, idols, and representations of Arihants, helping the soul remember and follow the path of enlightenment.