Pal Pal Samaro Shri Navkar - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Pal Pal Samaro Shri Navkar," based on the provided pages, focusing on its core message and content:

Book Title: Pal Pal Samaro Shri Navkar (Remember Shri Navkar Every Moment) Author: Naychandrasagar (edited and compiled by) Publisher: Agamoddharak Pratishthan, Surat

Overall Purpose:

This book is a comprehensive compilation and presentation of the profound teachings and significance of the Navkar Mahamantra, primarily based on the extensive work of the revered Jain Muni, Pujya Pannyas Gurudev Shri Abhay Sagrji Maharaj. The book aims to make the transformative power and spiritual benefits of the Navkar Mahamantra accessible and understandable to a wide audience, encouraging its regular practice for spiritual upliftment and well-being.

Key Themes and Content:

The Navkar Mahamantra as the Essence of Jainism: The book emphasizes that the Navkar Mahamantra, with its nine sacred syllables and five supreme beings (Panch Parmeshthis), is the distilled essence of the entire Jain tradition and the secret of the fourteen Purvas (ancient Jain scriptures). It's presented as the ultimate guide for spiritual liberation.
Pujya Gurudev Shri Abhay Sagrji Maharaj's Legacy: The central figure behind this compilation is Pujya Gurudev Shri Abhay Sagrji Maharaj, described as a great scholar, thinker, and an ardent devotee of the Navkar Mahamantra. He wrote and compiled numerous books on the Navkar Mahamantra, sharing his personal experiences and insights. This book consolidates his vast literary contributions into a single, accessible volume.
The Power and Significance of the Navkar Mantra:
- Spiritual Benefits: The mantra is described as a source of immense spiritual power that can overcome worldly sufferings, control the mind, bring inner peace and joy, and lead to ultimate liberation (Moksha).
- Overcoming Obstacles: It's highlighted that the Navkar Mahamantra acts as a shield against negative karma, difficult situations, and even physical ailments. The book provides numerous anecdotes and examples of its miraculous effects.
- Universality: The Navkar Mantra is not just for Jains but is presented as a universal mantra that can benefit all beings, influencing all consciousness. It's seen as a unifying force that binds different sects within the Jain community.
- Scientific and Mathematical Aspects: The book delves into the numerological and mathematical significance of the mantra's letters, syllables, and structures, presenting them as having deep scientific and spiritual underpinnings. This includes discussions on the number of letters, vowels, consonants, and the hidden meanings derived from their counts and arrangements.
Practical Guidance for Practice (Japa Sadhana): A significant portion of the book is dedicated to providing practical instructions on how to perform the Navkar mantra effectively. This includes:
- The "How-To" of Japa: Detailed explanations on how to chant the mantra, including the importance of proper pronunciation, focus, breath control, and the right mental attitude.
- The Importance of Rituals: Emphasis is placed on performing the japa with proper ritualistic procedures, including the use of a specific mala (rosary), maintaining a fixed posture (asana), facing a particular direction (like East or North), and adhering to a set time and number of repetitions.
- The Power of Concentration: Various techniques are suggested to enhance concentration, such as visualizing the mantra's letters, meditating on the Panch Parmeshthis, and cultivating a devotional attitude.
- Different Types of Japa: The book explains various forms of japa like Bhashya Japa (audible chanting), Upamshu Japa (whispered chanting), and Manas Japa (mental chanting), detailing their specific benefits and when to practice each.
- The Role of "Namo" vs. "Namo": A scholarly discussion is presented on the correct pronunciation and spelling of "Namo" versus "Namo," referencing ancient texts and linguistic analyses to establish the most authentic and potent form.
- The Significance of the Numbers: The numerical significance within the Navkar Mahamantra (like 68 letters, 9 syllables, 8 epithets) is explored for its spiritual implications and power.
- The "Nine Navkars" Method: A specific practice of chanting 108 Navkars using a special arrangement related to the Siddha-chakra is described for rapid spiritual progress.
The Philosophy Behind the Mantra:
- Panch Parmeshthis as Embodiments of Pure Soul: The book explains how the five supreme beings (Arhants, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, Sadhus) represent the purest state of the soul, free from worldly attachments and afflictions. Reciting their names is a way to connect with that pure essence.
- The Meaning of Each Syllable: Each syllable of the Navkar mantra is broken down and explained, revealing layers of philosophical and practical meaning. For instance, "Namo" is explored as a profound expression of surrender and submission to the divine principles.
- The Concept of Mangal (Auspiciousness): The mantra is presented as the highest form of "Bhav Mangal" (inner auspiciousness), surpassing all material or external auspicious rituals. It purifies the mind and actions, leading to true well-being.
- Karma Eradication: The mantra's immense power to destroy accumulated karma, even that which would lead to rebirth in lower realms (Naraka, Tiryancha), is a recurring theme, supported by numerical calculations of karmic destruction through chanting.
Inspirational Content:
- Devotional Songs and Prayers: The book includes devotional songs (geets), verses (dohas), chants (chands), and prayers that evoke deep devotion and inspire the reader to connect with the Navkar Mahamantra.
- Illustrative Pictures: Mention of specific pictorial representations of the Navkar Mahamantra's significance, like the "Navkar Sadhana," aids in visualizing the spiritual journey and its benefits.
- Q&A Sections: The book features question-and-answer sections tailored for different age groups, making complex concepts understandable and engaging.
The Author's Gratitude and Vision: The compiler expresses deep gratitude to the guiding spiritual masters and acknowledges the contributions of all those who made the publication possible. The ultimate goal is for this book to be a constant companion and guide for Navkar mantra aspirants.

In essence, "Pal Pal Samaro Shri Navkar" is a comprehensive guide that aims to illuminate the path to spiritual well-being through the diligent and devoted practice of the Navkar Mahamantra, drawing heavily on the wisdom and experience of Pujya Gurudev Shri Abhay Sagrji Maharaj. It serves as both a philosophical treatise and a practical manual for spiritual seekers.