Namskar Nishtha - Book Summary

This document is a Gujarati book titled "Namaskar Nishtha" (Devotion to Namaskar) by Mafatlal Sanghvi, published by Manilal Chunilal. It is part of the Shri Siddhi Dharma Sahitya Granthamala.

The book is a profound exploration of the Navkar Mahamantra (also known as Namaskar Mahamantra), a central and sacred mantra in Jainism. The author emphasizes its supreme importance and multifaceted benefits for spiritual growth and well-being.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the key themes and messages conveyed in the text:

1. The Supreme Power of the Navkar Mahamantra:

The Navkar Mahamantra is described as an eternal and fundamental mantra of the Jain Shasan (religion).
It is the essence of the entire Jain scripture (Dwadashangi and fourteen Purvas).
Even the most advanced saints and scholars recognize its immense power to awaken pure emotions and bring about great karmic liberation (Nirjara).
Its short form (68 letters) encapsulates the essence of the vast scriptures.

2. Cultivating Inner Qualities:

Constant remembrance, chanting, and meditation on the Navkar Mahamantra stir waves of friendship (Maitri), goodwill (Samayik/Pramod), compassion (Karunya), and equanimity (Madhyasthabhav) within the soul.
Through this practice, a seeker can eventually establish their soul in one of the five supreme beings (Panch Parameshthi).

3. Destruction of Sins and Attainment of Auspiciousness:

The mantra possesses the power to destroy all sins of its devotees.
It grants the strength to overcome negativity and attain all that is auspicious and beneficial.
The mantra's worship is a worship of this unique spiritual power, which is not meant to destroy external enemies but rather the internal enemies: sins and negative emotions.

4. The Author's Intention and the Book's Purpose:

The book aims to elaborate on the countless benefits derived from sincere devotion to the Navkar Mahamantra.
It seeks to inspill greater awareness and understanding of the Navkar Mahamantra's significance and practice.
The author encourages repeated reading of the book to strengthen one's devotion (Nishtha) to the mantra.

5. The Nature of Mantras and Their Power:

Mantras are described as sacred syllables that protect the reciter through contemplation (Manana).
Just as specific plants have immense powers to heal, mantras possess hidden, immense power to achieve various tasks.
The effectiveness of mantras can be amplified through various rituals, mudras (hand gestures), and visualizations.

6. Reasons for the Navkar Mahamantra's Preeminence:

Sound Vibration: The inherent sound structure of the mantra is auspicious and conducive to well-being.
Meaning (Vaachya): The five supreme beings (Panch Parameshthi) invoked by the mantra are the highest and most perfected souls in the universe.

7. The Path to Experiencing the Mantra's Power:

Concentration (Ekagrata): Lack of concentration is identified as a key reason why many don't experience the mantra's full power.
Devotion (Bhakti): True devotion and faith are essential.
Methodology (Vidhi): Following the prescribed methods of chanting is crucial.
Overcoming Obstacles: The text addresses common challenges like distraction and the need for consistent practice.
Letting Go of Expectations: Focusing on the act of devotion rather than the fruit of devotion is emphasized. The right to perform the duty (worship) exists, not the right to the outcome. The results should be left to the mantra itself.

8. The Science of Mantra Chanting:

The book delves into the physics of sound and vibration, explaining how repeated utterances of a mantra create powerful waves that permeate the universe.
This process can bring about miraculous changes in oneself and the environment.
The ideal chanting is described as a state of being completely immersed in the mantra's vibration, like a fish in water.

9. The Divine Presence within the Mantra:

The Navkar Mahamantra is not merely a collection of syllables but is believed to contain the essence of the Panch Parameshthi.
Chanting with devotion allows one to experience the presence of the divine.
Receiving the mantra from a true Guru is vital for awakening its latent power.

10. The Author's Personal Reflection and Gratitude:

The author expresses deep gratitude to their gurus and teachers for imparting the knowledge of the Navkar Mahamantra.
The book is dedicated to the memory of Acharya Vijay Siddhisuurishwarji Maharaj, highlighting his long life, austerities, and service to Jainism and the Navkar Mahamantra.
The author humbly acknowledges any shortcomings in the book, attributing them to their own limitations.

11. Specific Chapters and Themes: The table of contents reveals a wide range of topics covered, including:

The essence and impact of the Navkar Mahamantra.
The power of letters and syllables.
Cultivating devotion (Bhav) towards Navkar.
Navkar as a true companion and protector.
The miraculous nature of its letters.
The mantra as a "Navkar" (new invocation).
The concept of "Namah" (bowing) and its profound meaning.
The significance of speech and contemplation.
The mantra as a giver of universal life.
The practice of mantra worship.
The mantra as a life-force and character-builder.
The mantra as a "great medicine" (Maha Rasayan).
The symbolism of colors, particularly "Krishna Varna" (black color) representing depth and the initial stage of spiritual practice.
The concept of "Bhav" (emotion/attitude) in practice.
The significance of "Namah" as a bridge between the individual and the divine.
The importance of the "Arihant" and their devotional aspect.
The guiding light of "Agna" (command/teachings).
The concept of Universal Friendship (Vishwamaitribhav).
Navkar as the ultimate support (Param Ek Aadhar).

In essence, "Namaskar Nishtha" is a devotional and philosophical guide that seeks to instill a deep understanding and unwavering faith in the transformative power of the Navkar Mahamantra, encouraging its practitioners to integrate its principles into their daily lives for spiritual liberation and well-being.