The Navkar Mantra is the most sacred and powerful prayer in Jainism. It is not just a mantra but a deep expression of reverence towards those who have achieved spiritual excellence. It does not ask for anything material—it simply offers respect and gratitude. And in return, it brings immense peace, purity, and positivity to the one who chants it.
The Mantra in Prakrit
णमो अरिहंताणं ।
णमो सिध्दाणं ।
णमो आयरियाणं ।
णमो उवज्झयाणं ।
णमो लोए सव्वसाहुणं ।
एसो पंच णम्मुकारो, सव्व पावप्पणासणो ।
मंगलाणं च सव्वेसिं, पढमं हवइ मंगलं ॥
Simple Meaning
- णमो अरिहंताणं – (Namo Arihantanam) I bow to the Arihants (souls who have conquered inner enemies like anger, pride, greed, and deceit).
- णमो सिध्दाणं – (Namo Siddhanam) I bow to the Siddhas (liberated souls, who have attained Moksha).
- णमो आयरियाणं – (Namo Ayriyanam) I bow to the Acharyas (spiritual leaders and teachers who guide us).
- णमो उवज्झयाणं – (Namo Uvajjhayanam) I bow to the Upadhyayas (those who teach the scriptures and guide disciples).
- णमो लोए सव्वसाहुणं – (Namo Loe Savva-sahunam) I bow to all Sadhus and Sadhvis (monks and nuns) in the world.
Together, these five lines are called the Panch Parmesthi, the five supreme beings in Jainism.
Then the mantra continues:
एसो पंच णम्मुकारो, सव्व पावप्पणासणो । (Eso Pancha Namukkaro, Savva Paavappanasano)
These five bows destroy all sins and negativity.
मंगलाणं च सव्वेसिं, पढमं हवइ मंगलं ॥ (Mangalanam cha Savvesim, Padhamam Havai Mangalam)
Of all the auspicious things, this is the most supreme and sacred.
Why Is It So Important?
In Jainism, the Navkar Mantra is considered the holiest of chants. It is the first prayer a child learns and the last whisper of a soul departing. Its importance lies in its universality—it doesn’t belong to any one sect or group within Jainism; it unites all Jains in a shared song of respect.
This mantra is also seen as a shield against negativity. Jains believe that chanting it cleanses the soul of bad karma, the invisible burden we carry from past actions. It’s like wiping a dusty mirror clean, letting the soul shine brighter with each recitation.
The Benefits of Chanting
The Navkar Mantra is more than words—it’s a vibration of peace. When you chant it, whether aloud or silently, it calms the mind like a soft breeze settles restless waves. Here are some of its beautiful benefits:
- Inner Peace: The rhythmic flow of the mantra soothes worries and brings stillness to a busy mind.
- Purity of Soul: It’s said to wash away sins, helping us let go of guilt and embrace goodness.
- Focus and Clarity: Repeating it sharpens concentration, like a candle flame steadying in a quiet room.
- Connection to Virtue: It reminds us of the qualities—compassion, wisdom, discipline—that lead to a meaningful life.
- Blessings for All: Since it honors all virtuous beings, it spreads positivity not just to the chanter but to the world.
A Mangal of All Mangals
The last line calls it the “foremost auspiciousness.” In a world often filled with chaos, the Navkar Mantra is a melody of hope. It doesn’t promise riches or miracles, but something far greater—a chance to rise above our flaws and touch the divine within.
Imagine a lotus blooming in muddy water, untouched by the dirt around it. That’s what the Navkar Mantra inspires us to be—pure, peaceful, and radiant, no matter the circumstances.
णमो अरिहंताणं — I bow to the enlightened. And in that bow, I find myself lifted.
Poem inspired by Navkar Mantra
Here’s a gentle and soul-touching poem inspired by the Navkar Mantra — something that can be read as a prayer, a meditation, or a daily reminder of inner peace and purpose.
I bow not to names, not to fame or face,
But to virtues deep, to eternal grace.
To those who’ve conquered hate and pride,
In stillness and truth, they gently abide.
Arihants, the conquerors of self so bright,
Shining within, a pure soul’s light.
Siddhas, who’ve soared beyond birth and pain,
Free from all bonds, no loss, no gain.
To Acharyas, who lead the soul’s way,
With wisdom that blooms like the dawn of day.
To Upadhyayas, with scriptures in heart,
Lighting the path like a sacred art.
And to Sadhus and Sadhvis, walking so bare,
Yet rich in peace, in silence and care.
Across the world, in forests or towns,
In simple robes, they wear no crowns.
These five, O soul, are stars in the sky,
Bow to their virtues, and your karma will fly.
This mantra, this light, this soft sacred song,
Washes the weak, and strengthens the strong.
No asking for gold, no prayers for more,
Just silent thanks from the spirit’s core.
And in that silence, a miracle grows—
The seed of Moksha gently sows.
So chant it with love, not just from the tongue,
But from the heart where truth is young.
The Navkar Mantra, a gift so pure,
A timeless path, a soul’s true cure.
Presenting this article on “World Navkar Day”.
