Namokar Maha Mantra - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Namokar Maha Mantra" by Ratanchand Bharilla:

Overview:

The book "Namokar Maha Mantra" by Pandit Ratanchand Bharilla, published by Todarmal Granthamala Jaipur, is a detailed exploration of the fundamental Jain mantra, the Namokar Mantra. It aims to provide a deep understanding of the mantra, its significance, the nature of the five revered beings (Panch Parmeshthi) it salutes, and to clarify common misconceptions surrounding it. The book emphasizes a scriptural and logical approach to understanding the mantra's spiritual purpose.

Key Themes and Content:

Introduction to the Namokar Maha Mantra:
- The book begins by acknowledging that while most Jains chant the Namokar Mantra daily, few fully grasp its true essence.
- It highlights the mantra as a sacred and auspicious chant integral to Jain life.
- The author expresses the long-felt need for a comprehensive text on the Namokar Mantra, which this book aims to fulfill.
The Five Revered Beings (Panch Parmeshthi):
- A significant portion of the book is dedicated to explaining the nature and qualities of each of the Panch Parmeshthi:
  - Arihant Parmeshthi: Described as those who have conquered internal enemies (karmas) and are free from 18 defects (doshas). Their path to liberation is detailed, emphasizing their infinite knowledge, vision, energy, and bliss. The text clarifies their qualities as omniscient, omnipotent, and benevolent teachers. It refutes the idea of them granting worldly boons, emphasizing that their veneration leads to spiritual upliftment. The 46 qualities of Arihants are explained, distinguishing between inherent spiritual qualities and externally manifested perfections.
  - Siddha Parmeshthi: Explained as souls who have achieved complete liberation from all karmas and the cycle of birth and death. They reside in the Siddhashila at the apex of the universe, experiencing eternal, unadulterated bliss. The text details the process of attaining Siddhahood and highlights their eight fundamental qualities (e.g., infinite knowledge, vision, bliss, energy).
  - Acharya Parmeshthi: Described as the spiritual leaders of the monastic order, possessing superior knowledge, conduct, and devotion. They are responsible for guiding the Sangha, teaching scriptures, and leading the path to liberation. Their qualifications include adherence to the five conduct principles (Panchachar), mastery over scriptures, and profound spiritual realization.
  - Upadhyaya Parmeshthi: Identified as those who are masters of scriptures (especially the 12 Angas and 14 Purvas) and teach them to others. They are instrumental in propagating knowledge and guiding spiritual seekers.
  - Sadhu Parmeshthi: Representing the general body of monks who strictly adhere to the path of Jainism, characterized by non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession. Their lives are dedicated to spiritual practice, penance, and meditation. The text details the five great vows (Panch Mahavrat), five restraints (Panch Samiti), five senses control, six essential duties (Shat Aavashyak), and other virtues that define a Sadhu.
Significance and Power of the Namokar Mantra:
- The "Om" Symbol: The book explains the origin of the "Om" syllable from the first letters of the Panch Parmeshthi's names (A+A+Aa+U+M = Om), signifying the essence of the mantra.
- "Chattari Mangal": A significant section discusses the four auspicious entities mentioned in Jainism: Arihants, Siddhas, Sadhus, and the path of righteousness shown by the omniscient (Kevali). It clarifies the true meaning of "Mangal" (auspiciousness) as that which removes suffering and bestows true happiness, contrasting it with superficial worldly symbols.
- "Chattari Uttam" & "Chattari Sharane": The text elaborates on these concepts, emphasizing that the Panch Parmeshthi and Jain Dharma are the ultimate, supreme, and sole refuge in the world. It strongly advocates for relying on the Panch Parmeshthi and one's own soul (Atma) for true liberation, discouraging reliance on external powers or rituals for worldly gains.
- Word Power (Shabd Shakti): The book delves into the vibrational power of the mantra, explaining that its effectiveness lies not just in the sound but in the contemplative understanding and devotion behind its recitation. It highlights the importance of inner realization (Antarjapa) over mere vocal chanting (Bahirjapa).
- Mantra and Wish Fulfillment: While acknowledging that the mantra can lead to favorable circumstances due to the merit accumulated through devotion, the book clarifies that the ultimate purpose of the Namokar Mantra is spiritual liberation, not the fulfillment of worldly desires. It cautions against misusing the mantra for material gains, comparing it to discarding a precious gem for a trivial object. The true power lies in conquering desires and passions, not fulfilling them.
- "Adinath ya Sadinath": The text discusses the nature of the mantra as being eternal (Anadi) in its spiritual essence, as the Panch Parmeshthi have always existed and will continue to exist. However, the specific grammatical form in Prakrit can be considered having an origin (Sadi) in its current structure.
- Mantra Structure and Alphabetical Representation: The book explores the arrangement of the mantra, explaining the reasoning behind the order of salutations. It also touches upon how the mantra symbolically represents the entire alphabet and the essence of the Twelve Angas of Jain scripture.
Clarification of Misconceptions:
- The book addresses prevalent superstitions and misguided beliefs related to the Namokar Mantra. It clarifies that the mantra's power is not in external rituals or obtaining worldly boons, but in purifying the mind, reducing passions, and guiding towards spiritual attainment.
- It refutes the notion that chanting the mantra guarantees immunity from all worldly difficulties, explaining that past karmas still have their effects, and the mantra's primary benefit is spiritual purification and detachment from suffering.
- It emphasizes that true devotion and chanting involve understanding the virtues of the Panch Parmeshthi and aligning one's life with their teachings, rather than seeking miraculous interventions.
Structure and Approach:
- The book is structured logically, moving from an introduction to detailed explanations of each Parmeshthi, the mantra's significance, and its practical application.
- The author cites various revered Jain scriptures and scholars (like Kundakundacharya, Samantabhadra, Pujyapada, Virsenacharya, Pt. Todarmal) to support his explanations, lending authority and depth to the content.
- The language used is accessible, aiming to make complex spiritual concepts understandable to a broad audience.

Conclusion:

"Namokar Maha Mantra" by Ratanchand Bharilla is a profound spiritual guide that seeks to deepen the reader's understanding and devotion towards the Namokar Mantra and the Panch Parmeshthi. It encourages sincere, selfless devotion focused on spiritual upliftment and liberation, rather than seeking mundane benefits. The book serves as an essential resource for Jains and spiritual seekers interested in the core principles of Jainism as embodied in its most sacred mantra.