णमोकार मंत्र
Origin & Story
Jain Agamas (ancient Jain scriptures) · Ancient Jain tradition (pre-Mahavira) · Over 2,500 years old
The Namokar Mantra predates even Lord Mahavira (599-527 BCE), the 24th Tirthankara. It is considered eternal (nitya) — not composed by anyone but existing since beginningless time. When Mahavira attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience), the celestial beings recited this mantra in celebration. It is the first prayer taught to every Jain child and the last prayer on a Jain's lips at the time of death.
✦ As told in scripture
Jain texts record that King Shrenik of Rajgriha, despite accumulating severe karma from violent acts as a king, was destined for liberation in a future life because he sincerely recited the Namokar Mantra at the moment of his death. The mantra's power is said to be so immense that even a single sincere recitation can alter the course of one's karmic destiny.
Complete Text with Meaning
णमो अरिहंताणं णमो सिद्धाणं णमो आयरियाणं णमो उवज्झायाणं णमो लोए सव्व साहूणं
Namo Arihantanam Namo Siddhanam Namo Aayariyanam Namo Uvajjhayanam Namo Loe Savva Sahunam
Meaning:I bow to the Arihantas — the perfected souls who have conquered all passions. I bow to the Siddhas — the liberated souls. I bow to the Acharyas — the spiritual leaders. I bow to the Upadhyayas — the learned teachers. I bow to all the Sadhus (monks and nuns) in the world.
एसो पंच णमोक्कारो सव्व पावप्पणासणो मंगलाणं च सव्वेसिं पढमं हवइ मंगलं
Eso Panch Namokkaro Savva Pavappanasano Mangalanam Cha Savvesim Padhamam Havai Mangalam
Meaning:This fivefold salutation destroys all sins. Among all that is auspicious, it is the foremost auspiciousness.
Word-by-Word Meaning
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Benefits of Chanting णमोकार मंत्र
The most sacred and powerful mantra in Jainism — destroys all sins
Bowing to these five supreme beings cultivates humility and destroys ego
Does not worship any specific person but qualities — making it truly universal
Brings inner peace, mental clarity and spiritual progress
Protects from negative karma and inauspicious events
Chanting before any important task ensures success and auspiciousness
How to Chant णमोकार मंत्र
Sit in a clean, quiet place facing east or north. Close your eyes and fold your hands. Recite each line slowly, contemplating the qualities of each being you are bowing to. The Namokar Mantra does not ask for anything — it is pure reverence. This attitude of selfless reverence is what makes it so powerful. Chant 108 times with a mala for deep meditation.