Illustrated Namokara Mahamantra

This book, "Illustrated Namokara Mahamantra," published by Diwakar Prakashan and authored by Shreechand Surana and Surendra Bothra, is a comprehensive guide to the Namokara Mahamantra, a central prayer in Jainism. The book aims to make the profound concepts and practices associated with this mantra accessible through detailed illustrations and explanations.

Core Concepts and Themes:

• The Namokara Mahamantra: The book introduces the Namokara Mahamantra as the "essence of Jain dharma" and a highly potent mantra, superior to other wish-fulfilling divine entities. It is presented as an "all-fulfilling, beneficent and eternally perfect mantra." The mantra itself is "Namo Arihantanam, Namo Siddhanam, Namo Acaryanam, Namo Upadhyayanam, Namo Loe Savva Sadhunam," which translates to bowing to the Arihantas, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and all Sadhus in the world.

• Inner Power and Self-Confidence: A significant theme is the development of inner spiritual power, which is presented as the foundation for supreme self-confidence. The mantra is highlighted as a tool to awaken this inherent energy within the soul.

• Meditation and Visualization: The book emphasizes various methods of meditation and visualization related to the mantra. This includes focusing on the meaning of each line, visualizing the forms of the venerated souls, meditating on colors associated with each line, and practicing specific breathing and concentration techniques.

• Benefits of the Mantra: The Namokara Mahamantra is described as having multifaceted benefits, ranging from mundane advantages like wealth, happiness, and protection from obstacles and enemies, to profound spiritual benefits leading to liberation. It is believed to remove sins, overcome obstacles, pacify planetary influences, and cure ailments.

• The Five Venerables (Pancha Paramesthi): The book elaborates on the significance and qualities of each of the five venerables mentioned in the mantra:

  • Arihantas: Destroyers of enemies (karmas), possessing infinite knowledge and power.
  • Siddhas: Liberated souls, residing in the Siddha Loka, possessing eight inherent attributes.
  • Acharyas: Leaders of the Jain order, responsible for guiding the spiritual community.
  • Upadhyayas: Teachers of scriptures, illuminating the path of knowledge.
  • Sadhus: Ascetics engaged in rigorous spiritual practice and embodying compassion and purity.

• Practical Applications and Experiments: The book delves into practical applications of the mantra, including:

  • Color Meditation: Associating specific colors with each line of the mantra for enhanced meditation.
  • Chakra Meditation: Focusing on specific energy centers in the body while chanting.
  • Self-Protection Shields (Kavaca): Detailed instructions and visualizations for creating protective barriers against harm and negative influences.
  • Pacifying Planets: Using specific chants and colors to mitigate the ill effects of astrological planets.
  • Mantra Japa Methods: Describing various ways to repeat the mantra, such as using a rosary, finger counting, or the lotus japa.
  • Specific Mantras for Various Purposes: Providing mantras for wealth, success in studies, protection, removing fear, and enhancing affection.

• Miracles and Testimonials: The book includes several inspiring stories and accounts of miracles attributed to the Namokara Mahamantra, both from ancient Jain scriptures and modern experiences, to underscore its power and efficacy. These examples serve as evidence of the mantra's transformative potential.

• Appendices: The book features several appendices that further elaborate on various aspects, including:

  • Various applications of the Namokara Mantra.
  • Miracles of the Namokara Mahamantra based on experience.
  • Important facts and explanations from ancient texts.
  • The Sarvatobhadra Anupūrvi, a mathematical method for chanting.

Overall Purpose:

The "Illustrated Namokara Mahamantra" serves as a guide for Jains and anyone interested in learning about and practicing this powerful mantra. It aims to foster deep faith and devotion by illustrating the profound spiritual and practical benefits of chanting and meditating on the Namokara Mahamantra, ultimately guiding practitioners towards inner peace, strength, and spiritual realization.