Namaskar Mantranu Dhyan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Namaskar Mantranu Dhyan" (Meditation of the Namaskar Mantra) by Babubhai Girdharlal Kadiwala, based on the provided pages:

The book "Namaskar Mantranu Dhyan" by Babubhai Girdharlal Kadiwala, published by Adhyatmik Sanshodhan ane Dhyan Kendra, is a guide to practicing meditation using the powerful Namaskar Mantra, a central prayer in Jainism. The text is inspired by the teachings of spiritual leaders like Pujya Panyas Shri Bhadrakarvijayji Maharaj Saheb.

Core Purpose and Philosophy:

The primary aim of the book is to explain and guide practitioners through various methods of meditating on the Namaskar Mantra (Namo Arihantanam, Namo Siddhanam, Namo Ayariyanam, Namo Uvajjhayanam, Namo Loe Savva Sahunam). The text emphasizes that this mantra is a universal and accessible spiritual practice, beneficial for all individuals regardless of age, social status, or spiritual inclination. It highlights the mantra's ability to purify the mind, eradicate sins, foster humility, and ultimately lead to self-realization and spiritual liberation.

Key Themes and Practices:

• The Power and Significance of the Namaskar Mantra: The book repeatedly underscores the profound significance of the Namaskar Mantra. It's described as the "essence of extremity," the "best auspiciousness," a destroyer of sins, a creator of happiness, and a path to eternal peace. It's considered a universal prayer that can be recited at any time, in any situation, and is even chanted at birth and death. The mantra's core purpose is to overcome egoism ("Aham") and cultivate humility ("Vinay").

• Preparation for Meditation (Dhyan): The text provides detailed instructions on how to prepare for meditation:

  • Setting: Finding a quiet place, ideally a Jain temple, upashraya, or a peaceful corner at home. Samayik (a state of spiritual practice) is recommended for uninterrupted meditation.
  • Posture: Sitting in Padmasana (lotus pose), Ardha Padmasana (half lotus), or Sukhasana (easy pose).
  • Direction: Facing East or North. The direction is less important when meditating in front of a Jina idol.
  • Aasana (Seat): Using a woolen seat, preferably white.
  • Mindset: Cultivating equanimity, compassion for all beings, and wishing well-being for everyone.
  • Physical Details: Keeping the mouth closed, lips slightly parted, and the tongue gently touching the upper palate. Eyes should be closed, avoiding direct light.

• The Practice of Repetition (Japa) and Meditation:

  • Mala (Rosary): Using a white cotton or crystal mala for counting. It's recommended to use the same mala for the Namaskar Mantra only.
  • Counting Methods: Introducing methods like "Nadavart" (counting on the right hand) and "Shankhavart" (counting on the left hand) to reach 108 repetitions.
  • Quantity: A minimum of 108 repetitions is advised, with the option to increase based on one's capacity.
  • Timing: Emphasizing the importance of regular practice at a fixed time, with sunrise and sunset periods being particularly auspicious.
  • Concentration: The text stresses the importance of keeping the mind focused on the mantra, acknowledging that the mind's wandering is a common struggle. It suggests that focusing on the mantra can bring peace and fearlessness.

• Stages of Meditation: The book outlines a progression in meditating on the Namaskar Mantra:

  • Initial Stage (Name Niskṣepa): Beginning with chanting the mantra (japa) using rosaries or mental counting.
  • Visualization (Akshar Darshan): Gradually progressing to visualizing the letters of the mantra. This involves various techniques, such as looking at a printed card, mentally writing the letters on a black board, or visualizing them made of precious stones.
  • Internalization: Once the letters become visible in the mind's eye, the practice moves to holding the mantra's letters in the heart chakra and then internalizing their essence.
  • Dharana (Concentration): Focusing on specific aspects like the lotus imagery with the mantra's letters inscribed, or the deities associated with each word of the mantra.
  • Meditation (Dhyan): Deepening the practice by merging with the divine essence of the Parmeshthis (the five supreme beings). This involves visualizing the light and auspicious qualities of the Parmeshthis and aiming for a state of oneness.

• Specific Meditation Techniques and Their Benefits:

  • Sālambana Dhyāna (Meditations with Support): The book details various "Prayogs" (practices) that use supporting elements like visualizations, colors, and sacred geometry (like the eight-petaled lotus) to focus the mind.
  • Color Visualization: Associating specific colors with each of the five Parmeshthis (e.g., white for Arihants, red for Siddhas, yellow for Acharyas, green for Upadhyayas, and blue for Sadhus) to enhance the meditative experience.
  • Inner Transformation: The text describes how deep meditation on the Namaskar Mantra can purify the mind from negative emotions like anger, greed, attachment, fear, and anxiety, leading to a state of peace, bliss, and self-realization.
  • Mantra and Idol Meditation: The book discusses the interplay between mantra recitation and deity visualization, highlighting how both are aids to connecting with the divine.
  • Concentration on Letters: Detailed methods are given to achieve concentration on the individual letters of the mantra, emphasizing a gradual process.

• The "Twelve Ways" of Namaskar Meditation: The book describes twelve specific meditative practices for the Namaskar Mantra, each designed to deepen the practitioner's connection and lead to spiritual advancement. These include practices involving:

  • Mental visualization and concentration.
  • Cultivating specific Bhavnas (feelings) of universal welfare and compassion.
  • Channeling all ten life-forces (prana) into the mantra.
  • Engaging all senses with the Parmeshthis' divine qualities.
  • Experiencing intense devotion and awe.
  • Internalizing the mantra's essence to the point of becoming one with it.
  • Gradually merging the soul's qualities with the Parmeshthis' attributes.

• Theological and Philosophical Depth: The text delves into the philosophical underpinnings of the mantra, interpreting "Namo" as a turning point from worldly thoughts to the divine, and the entire mantra as a "master key" to unlock the boundless joy within the self. It also touches upon the concept of "Varna Matruka" (the alphabet as divine energy) and its role in spiritual development.

• Testimonials and Encouragement: The book includes a message of inspiration and emphasizes the importance of collective chanting. It also highlights the practical benefits of the mantra across various aspects of life, such as economic effectiveness, constitutional correctness, and psychological sensitivity.

In essence, "Namaskar Mantranu Dhyan" is a comprehensive guide for Jain practitioners seeking to harness the transformative power of the Namaskar Mantra through focused meditation and contemplation. It provides practical techniques, philosophical insights, and spiritual encouragement to facilitate a deeper connection with the divine and ultimately achieve self-realization.