Meaning of the Navkar Mahamantra

The Navkar Mantra is the most fundamental mantra in Jainism and can be recited at any time of the day. While reciting the Navkar Mantra, the aspirant bows with respect to Arihantas, Siddhas, Ächäryäs, Upädhyäyas,Sädhus, and Sädhvis. The mantra enables us to worship the virtues of all the supreme spiritual people instead of just worshipping one particular person. For this reason, the Navkar Mantra does not mention the names of any Tirthankaras, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upädhyäyas, Sädhus, or Sädhvis. At the time of recitation, we remember their virtues and try to emulate them. In this mantra we bow down to these supreme spiritual personalities, and therefore, it is also called Namaskär or Namokär Mantra.

Meaning of Navkar Maha Mantra