Navkarno Sankshipta Saar - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Navkarno Sankshipta Saar" by Sudhir B Kothari, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Navkarno Sankshipta Saar (A Concise Essence of the Navkar Mantra) Author: Sudhir B Kothari Publisher: Bhadrankar Prakashan

This book is a condensed summary of a larger work titled "Trailokya Deepak Mahamantra-dhiraj (Shri Navkarmantra)" authored by Pujya Panyas Pravar Shri Bhadraankarvijayji Ganivarya. The essence of this larger work has been compiled by Sudhir B Kothari, with the editorial support of Pujya Pandit Pravar Shri Vajrasenvijayji Ganivarya. The publication aims to make the profound teachings of the Navkar Mantra accessible to a wider audience, especially the younger generation and those with limited time.

Core Purpose and Philosophy:

The book addresses the curiosity and questions prevalent in today's fast-paced, scientific era, where people often ask "Why?" and seek tangible benefits. The Navkar Mantra, being a foundational element of Jainism, naturally attracts such inquiries. The author emphasizes that the Navkar Mantra is not merely a recitation but a profound philosophical and spiritual guide that addresses fundamental human needs and aspirations.

Key Themes and Concepts Explored:

The book is structured into eleven chapters, each delving into various aspects of the Navkar Mantra:

Chapter 1: Questions of the Current Generation about Navkar: This chapter acknowledges the scientific mindset of today's youth and addresses common questions like "Why is Navkar a Mahamantra?", "Where is God's compassion if it's always raining?", and the efficacy of chanting. It also touches upon the relationship between spirituality and psychology.
Chapter 2: Navpad and Navpunya (Nine Virtues and Nine Merits): This chapter presents the Navkar Mantra's nine steps (Navpad) and their corresponding nine types of meritorious actions (Navpunya). It illustrates how each step of the mantra is linked to a specific virtue and a meritorious act, such as offering food (Ann Punnya) for the Arihantas and water (Jal Punnya) for the Siddhas. It also links the Navkar Mantra to the six essential religious observances (Aavashyak) and the five states of contemplation (Panch Avastha Bhavna).
Chapter 3: The Essence of Namaskar Dharma and its Yogic Perspective: This chapter explores the deeper meaning of "Namaskar Dharma" (the religion of salutation). It discusses the underlying principles of humility, the rejection of ego, and the development of qualities like forgiveness and equanimity. It also examines the Navkar Mantra from a yogic perspective, highlighting its role in purifying the mind and senses. The chapter emphasizes the distinction between external rituals and internal devotion.
Chapter 4: Karma Annihilation through Namaskar: This chapter details how the Navkar Mantra aids in the shedding of karmas. It discusses the importance of self-reflection (Swadosh Darshan) and appreciating the virtues of others (Par-gun Darshan). The mantra's role in seeking refuge in the Arihants and other Parmeshthis, leading to mental equanimity and the awakening of mantra consciousness, is highlighted. Gratitude and self-reliance are also discussed as outcomes of this practice. The chapter also delves into the concept of "anamahat swaroop" (unmanifest form) of the mantra and its nine inherent "rasas" (emotional essences).
Chapter 5: The Five Types of Gurus, Purity of Mind, and Equanimity: This chapter explains the concept of five types of spiritual guides (Gurus) within the Navkar Mantra and how their veneration leads to inner purity and equanimity. It discusses the practice of mantra adoration, the protection of the mind through mantras, and the development of inherent virtues. The relationship between the mind and the "Namo" (salutation) syllable is explored, emphasizing its role in overcoming ego and achieving self-realization.
Chapter 6: Faith, Devotion, and Freedom from Debt: This chapter highlights the complementary relationship between faith (Shraddha) and devotion (Bhakti). It explains how these qualities, when combined, lead to the accomplishment of spiritual goals and liberation from worldly debts (both karmic and practical). The importance of humility and gentleness as outcomes of the Navkar practice is also emphasized.
Chapter 7: Inner Salutation (Bhav Namaskar), Order of Practice, and Siddhi (Accomplishment): This chapter focuses on "Bhav Namaskar" (mental salutation) and the sequential process of spiritual practice, starting from fear (Bhiti) and progressing through love (Preeti), devotion (Bhakti), inclination (Ruchi), and ultimately to the adherence to the divine order (Aagna). It discusses the indispensability of mantra accomplishment and the principles of world mastery through equanimity. The chapter also touches upon the "panch samvayakaran" (five causal factors) and the profound significance of the "Namo" syllable.
Chapter 8: The Nature of Matter and Soul, Means to Siddhi, and the Influence of Namaskar: This chapter elaborates on the distinction between the physical (Pudgal) and the spiritual (Jeev) realms, explaining how understanding this difference leads to detachment (Vairagya). It reiterates the Navkar Mantra's potency as the ultimate means to spiritual accomplishment, comparing its influence to that of the philosopher's stone (Parasmani) and the wish-fulfilling gem (Chintamani). The chapter also discusses the impact of Namaskar on concentration, the merging of ego (Karjod-Manmod), and the underlying meaning of "Namo". It further explores the comprehensive nature of Navkar, its relation to the nine emotions (Navras), and the path to overcoming worldly attachments.
Chapter 9: The Characteristics of a Monk, Mantra vs. Scripture, and the Power of Navkar: This chapter outlines the qualities of a monk (Sadhu) and explains the complementary roles of mantras and scriptures. It emphasizes the immense power of the Navkar Mantra and how it aids in overcoming ego, fostering gratitude and humility, and cultivating generosity. The chapter also touches upon the concepts of consciousness and inert matter, and the importance of altruism and gratitude.
Chapter 10: The Fruits of Bhavna (Meditations) and the Soul's Dialogue with Navkar: This chapter explores the results of various bhavnas (meditative states) like Maitri (friendliness), Pramod (joy in others' virtues), Karuna (compassion), and Madhyastha (equanimity). It explains how the recitation and contemplation of the Navkar Mantra can lead to the realization of one's soul and foster a dialogue with the divine. The chapter discusses the methods for overcoming negative emotions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed, attributing the power to achieve this to the Navkar Mantra.
Chapter 11: Navkar Mantra from a Psychological Perspective: This final chapter examines the Navkar Mantra through the lens of modern psychology. It explores how the mantra influences the conscious and subconscious mind, aiding in the transformation of basic instincts and drives through techniques like repression, sublimation, and redirection. It highlights how the mantra's vibrations and meaning can foster ethical development, reduce mental disturbances, and cultivate a positive mental state, thereby contributing to overall well-being and spiritual growth.

Overall Message:

"Navkarno Sankshipta Saar" serves as a valuable guide for understanding the multifaceted significance of the Navkar Mantra. It aims to inspire readers to embrace its teachings, leading to a more virtuous, peaceful, and spiritually fulfilling life by overcoming negative tendencies and cultivating positive qualities, ultimately paving the path towards liberation. The book encourages deeper study of the original work for those seeking more profound insights.