Namokar

The Namokar Mantra, also known as the Navkar Mantra or Namaskara Mantra, is a central prayer in Jainism. It is a devotional mantra that is recited by Jains worldwide. The mantra does not invoke any deity or personal god but rather expresses reverence to the five supreme souls in Jainism: the Arihants, the Siddhas, the Acharyas, the Upadhyayas, and the Sadhus or Saints. It is believed to be the most important mantra in Jainism.

The mantra translates to: "I bow to the Arihants. I bow to the Siddhas. I bow to the Acharyas. I bow to the Upadhyayas. I bow to the Sadhus (in the world). This is the five-fold salutation, which destroys all evils and is the foremost of all mantras." The recitation of the Namokar Mantra is considered an act of renunciation, detachment, and humility. It is believed to purify the mind and soul, offering spiritual benefit to the practitioner. The mantra is chanted for various reasons, including meditation, spiritual upliftment, and as a way to acknowledge and honor the path to liberation shown by the enlightened souls. It is often the first mantra learned by Jain children and is a fundamental part of Jain religious practice.