Om Namo Siddham

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Om Namo Siddham" by Basant Brahmachari, published by Bramhanand Ashram. The text is a detailed exploration of the sacred mantra "Om Namo Siddham" from a Jain perspective, delving into its spiritual, grammatical, and historical significance.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content:

I. Introduction and Editorial (Pages 3-6):

• Spiritual Foundation of Indian Culture: The editorial highlights the deep spiritual heritage of Indian culture, defining spirituality as knowing one's true self and making right distinctions between the self (consciousness) and the non-self (matter).
• The Goal of Spirituality: The ultimate aim of spirituality is to achieve self-realization, leading to inner happiness, peace, and bliss.
• Rattnatraya (Three Jewels): The text emphasizes the Jain concept of the Three Jewels (Samyakdarshan - Right Faith, Samyakgyan - Right Knowledge, and Samyakcharitra - Right Conduct) as the path to liberation, stating that these qualities are inherent to the soul and lead to supreme happiness, peace, and bliss.
• The Tradition of Mantra Jap: The book discusses the tradition of mantra recitation in India as a means to awaken inner strength and achieve union with the divine.
• The Significance of Sant Tarana Swami: The text introduces Sant Tarana Swami Ji as a unique saint of the 16th century in the Jain tradition who believed in the worship of the formless and was a pioneer of spiritual awakening. His fourteen original texts are considered guides to self-improvement and spiritual well-being.
• The Authority of Rishis' Words: The editorial stresses the importance of accepting the scriptures as divinely inspired (Arsha) and interpreting them according to their inherent meaning, applying this principle to the teachings of Tarana Swami.
• "Om Namo Siddham" in Tarana Swami's Works: It is noted that the mantra "Om Namo Siddham" is mentioned in several of Tarana Swami's texts, including "Pandit Puja," "Khatika Vishesh," "Chhadmasthavani," and "Gyana Samuchchaya Sar."
• The "Om Namo Siddham" Mantra: The text elaborates on the mantra's antiquity, its initial use in Indian education, and the belief in its power to accomplish all tasks.
• Meaning of "Siddha" in Jainism: The term "Siddha" in Jain philosophy has a broad meaning. According to Syadvada, it refers to those who have merged with their true self, destroyed all karmic impurities and passions, and attained an eternal, indestructible state. From a Nischaya Naya (Absolute truth perspective), all souls are inherently pure.
• The Essence of "Om Namo Siddham": The mantra's essence lies in the realization of the blissful, pure, and indivisible Siddha nature of the soul.
• "Om Namo Siddham" vs. "Om Namo Siddhebhyah": Both mantras are significant in Jainism. "Om Namo Siddhebhyah" became more prevalent due to grammatical rules (as per the sutra "Namah svasti svaha svadha alam vashat yogach chaturthi bhavati"). However, "Om Namo Siddham" has been remembered since ancient times.
• The Degradation of the Mantra: The text laments that over time, the mantra became corrupted to "O Na Ma Si Dham" due to the changing times.
• The Correct Pronunciation and Grammar: It clarifies that "Siddham" in the mantra is in the accusative case (Dvitīyā), and grammatical rules support its usage.
• Basant Brahmachari's Contribution: The book is presented as a comprehensive spiritual commentary on "Om Namo Siddham," aiming to fulfill the curiosity of disciples and further the spiritual tradition of Tarana Swami.
• Testimonials and Blessings: The initial pages include testimonials and blessings from respected scholars and spiritual figures like Pandit Jankiprasad Goswami, Pandit Rajendrakumar Jain, and Pandit Ratanchandra Shastri, who praise the book's depth and importance.

II. Core Concepts and Analysis (Pages 6-16):

• The Importance of the "Om Namo Siddham" Mantra: The book argues that "Om Namo Siddham" is a highly revered and significant mantra in Jainism, holding a special place among all mantras. It signifies the auspiciousness and spiritual power of the Siddha state.
• Historical and Grammatical Evidence: The author presents extensive historical and grammatical evidence to support the antiquity and correct usage of "Om Namo Siddham." This includes references to:
  • Ancient Indian Education: The practice of starting education with this mantra in schools.
  • The Vedas and Jain Agamas: The mantra's presence and significance across various traditions.
  • The "Siddham Namah" Tradition: The practice of beginning alphabets (Aksharavali or Siddha Matrika) with "Siddham Namah" as an auspicious invocation, as documented in ancient Jain texts like Mahapurana by Acharya Jinsena and Padmapurana by Acharya Ravisenacharya.
  • Grammatical Analysis: Detailed discussions on the grammar of "Namah" in relation to "Siddham" (Dvitīyā Vibhakti) and "Siddhebhyah" (Chaturthi Vibhakti), referencing Panini's grammar and Katantra grammar.
  • Etymology of "Mantra": Exploring the meaning of "Mantra" from different roots, signifying tools for self-realization, contemplation, and protection.
• Spiritual Significance of "Om Namo Siddham":
  • The "Om" Syllable: The mystic syllable "Om" is described as encompassing the Panch Parmeshthis (Arhat, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu) and representing the absolute, formless reality.
  • The "Namah" and "Siddham" Components: "Namah" signifies salutation and surrender, while "Siddham" refers to the Siddha state, the perfected, liberated soul. The mantra signifies bowing to one's own inherent Siddha nature.
  • Self-Realization: The ultimate goal is to realize the "Siddham" within oneself, recognizing the soul's intrinsic pure, blissful, and omniscient nature.
• The Spiritual Nature of Letters (Aksharas): The text delves into the profound spiritual meanings of individual letters of the alphabet, connecting them to different spiritual concepts and stages of realization, as expounded by Tarana Swami.
• The Concept of "Siddha": The book elaborates on the multifaceted meaning of "Siddha" in Jainism, including the shedding of karmic coverings, attainment of eternal bliss, and the realization of one's true, pure, and omniscient nature.
• The Power of Mantra Jap: The text emphasizes the transformative power of mantra chanting for purifying the mind, achieving inner peace, and ultimately attaining liberation.
• The Nature of the Soul: The soul is described as inherently pure, blissful, and conscious, and the mantra is a reminder and a tool to realize this innate nature.
• Distinction between "Om Namo Siddham" and "Om Namo Siddhebhyah": "Siddham" (accusative singular) signifies bowing to the Siddha state or the singular essence of Siddhahood, while "Siddhebhyah" (dative plural) signifies bowing to the multitude of Siddhas. The former emphasizes the inherent Siddha nature within, while the latter emphasizes devotion to the Siddhas.
• Historical Context and Cultural Influence: The book traces the influence of "Om Namo Siddham" and its corrupted forms ("O Na Ma Si Dham") on education and culture across various regions of India, highlighting its pervasive presence in traditional learning systems.
• The Role of Tarana Swami's Teachings: The author reiterates that Tarana Swami's spiritual insights and writings provide a unique and profound understanding of this mantra, guiding individuals towards self-realization.
• The Ultimate Goal: The book concludes by reiterating that the ultimate purpose of chanting "Om Namo Siddham" is the direct experience of one's own Siddha nature, leading to liberation.

III. Key Sections and Their Contents:

• "Akshar aur Abhipray" (Letter and Meaning): Discusses the spiritual meaning of letters, the formation of words, and the ultimate realization of the soul's true nature.
• "Ragni aur Vairagya" (Attachment and Detachment): Explores the role of detachment in overcoming worldly suffering and achieving spiritual liberation.
• "Om Namah Siddham ek Apurva Anveshan" (Om Namo Siddham: A Unique Exploration): Highlights the book's pioneering research and insightful analysis of the mantra.
• "Om Namah Siddham Sansar Many Mantra" (Om Namah Siddham: A Universally Accepted Mantra): Emphasizes the universal appeal and spiritual efficacy of the mantra.
• "Upyogik Satta" (Useful Essence): Discusses the practical application of spiritual principles in daily life.
• "Chintan unnati ka Sopan" (Contemplation: The Ladder of Progress): Underscores the importance of contemplation for spiritual growth.
• "Vyakaran ke Pariprekshya mein Om Namah Siddham aur Om Namah Siddhebhyah" (Grammatical Perspective on Om Namah Siddham and Om Namah Siddhebhyah): A detailed grammatical analysis of the two prevalent forms of the mantra.
• "Tarana Panth ki Sadhana" (Practices of the Tarana Panth): Briefly touches upon the spiritual practices within the Tarana Panth.
• "Mantra Sar" (Essence of Mantras): Offers aphorisms on the power and efficacy of mantra chanting.
• "Mantra ka Swaroop" (Nature of Mantra): Defines what a mantra is and its underlying power.
• "Mantra Shastra ki Drishti se" (From the Perspective of Mantra Shastra): Discusses the scientific and spiritual aspects of mantras.
• "Mantra ka Vyuptayarth aur Vyakhya" (Etymology and Explanation of Mantra): Explores the origins and meanings of the word "Mantra."
• "Mantra Jap ke Bhed" (Types of Mantra Jap): Classifies different methods of mantra recitation (mental, whispered, audible).
• "Mantra Jap ke Prayojan aur Phal" (Purpose and Fruit of Mantra Jap): Explains the goals and results of mantra practice.
• "Prachin Shiksha mein Om Namah Siddham ka Mahatvapurna Sthan" (The Important Place of Om Namah Siddham in Ancient Education): Details the historical role of the mantra in traditional Indian education.
• "Uske Apbhransh Hone ka Karan" (Reasons for its Corruption): Discusses how the mantra's pronunciation and form changed over time.
• "Akshara Batisika, Upadeshi Barahkhadi, Adhyatma Barahkhadi": Presents traditional pedagogical texts that incorporate spiritual teachings within the framework of the alphabet and the "barahkhadi" (twelve-line alphabetic verses).

In essence, "Om Namo Siddham" is a profound work that aims to:

• Revive and clarify the true spiritual meaning and historical significance of the "Om Namo Siddham" mantra within the Jain tradition, particularly as taught by Sant Tarana Swami.
• Provide a deep understanding of the mantra's connection to the soul's inherent pure and blissful nature.
• Educate readers on the grammatical correctness and ancient usage of the mantra.
• Highlight the integral role of spirituality in Indian culture and the effectiveness of mantra meditation as a spiritual practice.
• Offer a spiritual roadmap for self-realization and liberation, drawing upon the wisdom of Jain saints and scriptures.

The book is a testament to the author's dedication to illuminating the spiritual path through the potent mantra of "Om Namo Siddham."