Anant Sakti Ka Punj Namokar Mahamantra - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Anant Sakti Ka Punj Namokar Mahamantra" by Upacharya Devendra Muni, based on the provided pages:

Anant Sakti Ka Punj Namokar Mahamantra: A Summary

This book, authored by Upacharya Devendra Muni and published by Shri Tarak Guru Jain Granthalay, delves into the profound significance and immense power of the Namokar Mahamantra, describing it as a "collection of infinite powers." The author aims to enlighten readers about the spiritual and scientific dimensions of this sacred mantra, which is widely recited by Jains but whose true essence is understood by few.

The Power of Mantras and the Namokar Mahamantra:

The book begins by asserting that every syllable is a mantra, but it is through "manan" (contemplation) that an अक्षर (syllable) transforms into a mantra possessing inconceivable power, capable of leading the practitioner towards their desired goals. While the capacity for contemplation exists in all sentient beings, the ability to channel this into potent, intention-filled energy is rare and is found in dedicated mantra sadhaks.

The author explains that a mantra is formed by the skillful combination of letters, vowels, and consonants. This combination requires knowledge of the power of words, expertise, practical experience in sadhana, and subtle vision. The proper arrangement of these elements is crucial, and the text highlights the revered status of mantra-seers (rishis) in Indian literature for their ability to discern and combine these sacred elements.

The Science of Sound and Mantra:

The book details the science behind mantra pronunciation, explaining that sounds originate from the navel, travel through the heart and throat, and are then articulated with the help of the vocal cords, palate, and tongue. These vibrations, even when subtle and inaudible to others, generate energy within the body that aids in achieving desired outcomes. This is why silent or internalized chanting (manas jap, upanshu jap) is often considered more potent for quicker results.

The text emphasizes that the universe is filled with vibrations. Sound vibrations are particularly fast and powerful, capable of generating light when they reach extreme velocities. This explains why mantra sadhaks may experience luminous visions as they approach mantra siddhi (perfection). This inner light originates from the sadhak's own internal energy, not an external source. The effectiveness of a mantra is directly linked to its correct formation, the sadhak's unwavering focus, deep devotion, correct intonation, and firm faith.

The Namokar Mantra's Superiority and Universality:

The Namokar Mahamantra is presented as the supreme mantra in the world, possessing both "tranashakti" (power of protection) and "siddhishakti" (power of accomplishment). Beyond these, it holds numerous unknown, energetic secrets, surpassing even the mythical wish-fulfilling Kalpa Tree, Kamadhenu Cow, and Chintamani Jewel. It awakens not only moral but also spiritual powers.

Unlike other mantras tied to specific religious traditions or deities, the Namokar Mahamantra is described as universal. While associated with Jainism, it fundamentally reveres virtues and the remembrance of spiritually powerful beings. The worship of good qualities is universally accepted, making this mantra truly universal.

The Structure and Scientificity of the Namokar Mantra:

The core of the Namokar Mantra consists of five salutations and 35 letters: "Namo Arihantanam," "Namo Siddhanam," "Namo Ayariyanam," "Namo Uvajjhayanam," and "Namo Loe Savva Sahunam." The concluding verses, "Eso Panch Namukkaro..." are also often included, bringing the total to 68 letters, though the 35-letter core is considered primary.

Scientifically, this 35-letter mantra contains 34 vowels and 30 consonants, totaling 64 letters, which aligns with the 64 letters of the Devanagari script. This suggests that the mantra symbolically encapsulates the entirety of knowledge related to the science of letters. The specific arrangement of primal vowels and consonants in Prakrit, as found in this mantra, imbues it with exceptional potency.

The effectiveness of this letter combination lies in its ability to generate a "miraculous power" when contemplated or chanted with deep thought, much like how chemical reactions produce electricity or sound. The underlying basis for this miraculous effect includes the power of the inner consciousness, the sadhak's immense faith and devotion, and the purity and rhythmic cadence of their pronunciation.

Types of Mantras and the Namokar Mantra's Classification:

Mantras are broadly categorized, with some aimed at specific effects. However, "paushtik" (nourishing) and "shantik" (pacifying) mantras are considered the most virtuous and praiseworthy. Paushtik mantras lead to inner peace and material prosperity, while shantik mantras use sound waves to quell mental, physical, divine, and future obstacles, bestowing mental stability and peace.

The Namokar Mantra, with its structure and scientifically sound combination of letters, falls into the category of both shantik and paushtik mantras. It is designed to avert calamities, pacify all kinds of ailments, and its primary goal is inner peace, leading to effortless attainment of all benefits.

The Significance of Bijaksharas (Seed Syllables) and Their Effects:

The mantra incorporates all "bijaksharas" (seed syllables), where each letter possesses its own influence, sound, vibration, and symbol. For instance, the syllable 'A' signifies unity with the soul and enhances power, also acting as an attraction force. The book provides examples of how chanting specific verses can lead to the manifestation of inner experiences, such as a white halo appearing before the mind's eye, symbolizing purity and mental clarity.

The "Mahamantra" Qualities of Namokar:

The text outlines criteria for a "Mahamantra," which include:

Elimination of inner flaws and disharmonies.
Pacification of mental thoughts and deliberations.
Upward and energetic development of inner powers.
Realization of the soul and its qualities, with qualitative growth and an increase in soul-light.
Inclusion of impactful speech.
Enhancement of mental and intellectual energy, with flashes of inspiration.
Diminishment of vices like anger, pride, deceit, greed, lust, etc.
Development of a knower-seer attitude and equanimity.
Internalization of outward tendencies, leading to enjoyment of inner bliss.
Weakening of attachment to external objects.
Viryavatta (Potency): Awakening of vital energy centers (chakras), leading to immense spiritual vigor and enthusiasm.
Experience of virya-shakti manifesting as firm resolve and effective willpower.
The mantra's practice strikes at spiritual impurities like attachment, aversion, desires, anger, envy, etc., purifying the practitioner. This process leads to physical and mental well-being and energy.

Mind-Body Connection and Disease:

Modern psychology and medicine acknowledge that many diseases originate from psychosomatic disorders. The text cites the example of soldiers suffering from paralysis due to the conflict between their mind's desire to be home and their body's duty to fight. Similarly, Jain philosophy posits that diseases are caused by karmic impressions (vedaniya karma). In simple terms, the origin is in the causal body, affecting the subtle body, and manifesting in the physical body. Spiritual defects like attachment and anger are the root cause.

Practicing the Namokar Mantra purifies the causal body and leads to the shedding of negative karma, which in turn purifies the subtle body. Consequently, the physical body is less afflicted by diseases.

Further Fruits of Namokar Sadhana:

Renunciation of Desires: The practice leads to the renunciation and eradication of desires.
Transformation of Dualities: The sadhak's perspective on pleasure and pain changes, with reduced emotional responses to happiness and sorrow, fostering equanimity.
Integrated Development: Harmonious development of consciousness and vital energy leads to deeper absorption in the self and an ineffable experience of inner bliss.
Purification of Tendencies: This leads to beneficial changes in life.

Sadhana Process (Practice):

The book stresses the importance of understanding the elements of sadhana: faith, emotion, and devotion. It also emphasizes the correct pronunciation of letters, vowels, and consonants, paying attention to their duration (short, long, extended) and the specific energy centers in the body associated with each sound. Knowledge of the mantra's meaning enhances faith.

While some may achieve results through rote chanting, the author suggests that understanding the nuances of pronunciation and meaning leads to quicker attainment of goals and greater efficacy. Faith is described as unwavering devotion, trust, and attachment to the object of worship and the mantra itself.

The Role of Bhavana (Emotion/Meditation):

The text elaborates on "bhavana," the state of being imbued with the mantra's essence. This involves becoming one with the mantra's words and pronunciation, making each breath resonate with the mantra's sound. When the mantra and the sadhak become indistinguishable, the mantra is realized, and perfection is achieved. This perfection is directly proportional to the depth of emotion and the integration with the mantra.

The Scientific Basis of Color in Sadhana:

The book delves into the symbolic use of colors in the meditation of each Namokar mantra pada (verse).

Namo Arihantanam: Meditated upon at the Ajna chakra (between the eyebrows) with a white color, symbolizing purity and clarity. The seven letters of this pada are compared to the seven colors of the rainbow, which, when rotated at high speed, appear white. This vibration at the Ajna chakra leads to the manifestation of white light.
Namo Siddhanam: Meditated upon at the Sahasrara chakra (crown of the head) with a red color, symbolizing energy, self-awakening, and the development of spiritual qualities. The elongated "dha" sound in "Siddhanam" causes vibrations throughout the energy centers, particularly at the Sahasrara chakra.
Namo Ayariyanam: Meditated upon at the Vishuddhi chakra (throat) with a yellow color, signifying knowledge and the pacification of impulses. The thyroid gland, located here, regulates emotions. Chanting at this center helps subdue anger and lust, leading to mental peace and clarity, and enhancing knowledge retention.
Namo Uvajjhayanam: Meditated upon at the Anahata chakra (heart) with a blue color, representing peace and calmness. Blue is known to soothe agitation and is associated with calmness and stability.
Namo Loe Savva Sahunam: Meditated upon at the Manipura chakra (navel) with a black or deep musk-like color. The number nine, associated with this pada, signifies the inexhaustible and ever-growing virtues of the monks. Black, while often seen as inauspicious, is presented as an insulator and absorber, protecting inner gains and keeping external influences at bay, thus fostering endurance and steadfastness.

The colors are symbolic representations of the qualities of the respective Parmeshthis (Arhats, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, Sadhus) and also reflect the progression of purity of consciousness (leshya).

Essential Preparations for Sadhana:

Purity of Substance (Dravya Shuddhi): Cleanliness of body, clothes, seat, and surroundings, ensuring no living beings are harmed.
Purity of Place (Kshetra Shuddhi): A clean and peaceful environment, free from noise and pollution, conducive to concentration.
Purity of Time (Kaal Shuddhi): Choosing a quiet time, preferably the Brahma Muhurta (early morning hours), when nature is also calm.
Purity of Emotion (Bhava Shuddhi): A pure mind, free from worries, impulses, and external influences, along with immense faith and devotion.

The Importance of Asana (Posture) and Pronunciation:

The chosen posture should be comfortable and allow for sustained stillness to avoid distractions. Correct and rhythmic pronunciation, neither too fast nor too slow, is vital. The duration of chanting each pada is flexible, but completing a pada within a single breath is important. Longer breaths enhance concentration, peace, and health.

The Fruits of Namokar Mantra Sadhana:

The practice yields multifaceted results:

Spiritual Fruits: Purification of emotions, spiritual peace, sublimation of vices, realization of soul's infinite powers, contact with the infinite, annulment of ego and possessiveness, and weakening of the sense of 'mine' and 'yours.'
Mental Fruits: Pacification of thoughts, enhanced intellect and inspiration, upward progression of mental faculties, absence of desires (leading to lasting peace), transformation of pleasure/pain responses, reduction of mental afflictions, and mental well-being.
Physical Benefits: The color-based meditation practice influences bodily processes, promoting flexibility, resilience to environmental changes, and overall health. The mantra is believed to help combat serious illnesses like cancer and TB.

Miraculous Effects:

The book mentions numerous miraculous experiences attributed to the Namokar Mantra, including the neutralization of snake and scorpion venom. This is explained as the mantra's power generating an internal energy that counteracts the venom's effects on blood circulation.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Namokar Mahamantra is a treasure trove of powers, a source of inconceivable and miraculous potency. It is the essence of the fourteen Purvas, a repository of knowledge and conduct, a representation of the Panch Parmeshthis, and an agent of merit and purification. It bestows all kinds of worldly and otherworldly happiness and prosperity. Its proper chanting protects the sadhak from all adversities, leading to happiness, prosperity, and peace. This is why it is called the "unconquered mantra," the "king of mantras," and the "great mantra," a destroyer of obstacles and a bestower of unending, unhindered joy.