Naman

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Naman: My Book of Prayers" by Madhuban Educational Books, based on the provided text:

Overall Purpose and Philosophy:

"Naman: My Book of Prayers" is presented as a guide for children during their formative years, aiming to instill in them reverence for their ancient culture, aspirations for a meaningful life, and a correct understanding of life's deeper implications. The core philosophy emphasizes the transformative power of prayer as the most effective technique for nurturing inherent beauty and brilliance in children. Prayer is seen as a tool to cultivate self-confidence, foster true affection in relationships, promote personal discipline, develop leadership qualities, enhance self-expression, and assert individuality. Crucially, the book highlights the proven ability of prayer to alleviate psychological fears in young children. The overarching goal is to create a healthier intellectual and physical environment for children to grow with nobility, both physically and emotionally, through the elevating medium of prayer.

Structure and Content:

The book is broadly divided into several sections:

• Dainik Vandana (Daily Prayers) (Pages 4-18): This section features a collection of traditional Indian prayers and hymns, predominantly in Sanskrit, with their meanings provided. These include:

  • Shanti Mantra: A prayer for peace.
  • Ganesh Vandana: Invocation of Lord Ganesha for obstacle removal.
  • Saraswati Vandana: Prayer to Goddess Saraswati for knowledge and removal of laziness.
  • Guru Stotram: Reverence for the Guru, acknowledging them as Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, and the Supreme Reality.
  • Maha-Mrityunjaya Mantra: A powerful mantra addressed to Lord Shiva for liberation from death and for immortality.
  • Parvati Stuti: A prayer to Goddess Parvati for good fortune and fulfillment of wishes.
  • Gayatri Mantra: A highly revered mantra for seeking enlightenment and illuminating intellect.
  • Shri Ram Stuti: Devotional verses praising Lord Rama as mother, father, master, and friend.
  • Shri Krishna Stuti: A prayer acknowledging Lord Krishna's grace that overcomes all obstacles.
  • Pratah Vandana (Morning Prayer): A prayer to be recited upon waking, acknowledging the presence of Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Govinda in the palm.
  • Adhyanat Prak (Before Studies): A prayer to Goddess Saraswati for success in studies.
  • Bhojanat Prak (Before Meals): A prayer establishing all actions related to food as an offering to Brahman.
  • Shayanasamaye Kshamaapan (Night Prayer for Forgiveness): A prayer seeking forgiveness for all wrongdoings committed knowingly or unknowingly.
  • Kalyan Prarthana (Welfare Prayer): Prayers for universal auspiciousness, peace, completeness, and well-being, and for happiness, health, auspiciousness, and the absence of suffering for all. It also includes profound philosophical verses about leading from untruth to truth, darkness to light, and death to immortality, and the concept of the infinite.

• Prayers and Hymns (Pages 19-33): This extensive section compiles a diverse range of prayers and devotional songs from various traditions, primarily Christian and some general spiritual affirmations. Notable entries include:

  • Prayers focusing on the divine presence in various aspects of life (head, understanding, eyes, mouth, heart, end).
  • Prayers for guidance, protection, and daily blessings.
  • Hymns encouraging kindness, selflessness, and making one's life a positive influence.
  • Reflections on the importance of small deeds and words, the persistence of effort ("Keep pushing"), and making life sublime.
  • The Lord's Prayer ("Our Father").
  • Prayers of gratitude for creation and daily life.
  • Prayers for inner strength, integrity, and service to others.
  • A prayer emphasizing the interconnectedness of humanity ("No man is an island").
  • Hymns expressing unity with the divine and others.
  • Well-known Christian hymns like "O! When the saints Go marching in," "All things bright and beautiful," and "Abide with me."
  • A prayer to be a "channel of your peace."

• Bajan aur Prerna-Geet (Bhajans and Inspirational Songs) (Pages 41-52): This section features devotional songs (bhajans) and inspirational verses, mostly in Hindi, celebrating various deities and spiritual themes. These include:

  • Songs praising Lord Rama and the power of chanting His name.
  • Devotional songs expressing surrender to the divine and the search for spiritual wealth.
  • Hymns dedicated to "Maa Sharada" (Goddess Saraswati) for knowledge and enlightenment.
  • Philosophical verses on realizing the divine presence within.
  • The concept of the "Vaishnav Jan" (a true devotee) who understands and alleviates the suffering of others.
  • Songs encouraging detachment from worldly desires and focusing on devotion.
  • Dohas and verses from prominent saints like Kabir and Surdas, and a beautiful rendition of "Ramachandra Kripalu Bhaju Man."
  • Bhajans about the divine beauty of Lord Krishna and the joy of divine love.

• Rashtriya Geet (National Song) (Page 56): This section includes:

  • Vande Mataram: A patriotic song of reverence for Mother India.
  • Jana Gana Mana: The Indian national anthem.

Key Themes and Messages:

• The Power of Prayer: Central to the book is the belief that prayer is a potent tool for personal and spiritual development, especially for children.
• Spiritual Foundation: The book aims to lay a strong spiritual foundation by introducing children to various devotional practices and philosophical insights.
• Character Development: It emphasizes the cultivation of virtues like kindness, discipline, love, humility, truthfulness, and courage.
• Cultural Reverence: By including traditional Sanskrit prayers, the book fosters an appreciation for India's rich cultural and religious heritage.
• Inclusivity: While rooted in Jain teachings, the inclusion of prayers from other religions (Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Muslim, Parsi, Baha'i) suggests a broader message of spiritual unity and respect for diverse paths to the divine.
• Inner Peace and Well-being: Many prayers focus on achieving peace, overcoming fears, and finding happiness and contentment.
• Service and Compassion: The book encourages a life of service and compassion for others, reflecting a deep understanding of human interconnectedness.

In essence, "Naman: My Book of Prayers" is a comprehensive compilation designed to guide children towards a life of virtue, spirituality, and well-being, drawing from a rich tapestry of prayers and devotional songs from various traditions.