Jain Funeral Procedures

Author(s): Tansukh J Salgia
Publisher: Tansukh J Salgia

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NAMOKAR MANTRA (The Most Sacred Jaina Prayer)
(OM)* NAMO ARIHANTAANAM
I bow to the Jinas (Arhants) the Perfected, yet Embodied Souls, possessed of Infinite Consciousness, Energy and Happiness;
(OM) NAMO SIDDHAANAM
I bow to the Perfect, Pure (Free of Karmic Attachments), Liberated Souls (Siddhas), those who have attained Moksha,;
(OM) NAMO AAYARIYAANAM
I bow to the Ascetic Leaders (Aacharyas) of the Jaina Order;
(OM) NAMO UVAJJHAAYAANAM
I bow to the Ascetic Preceptors/Teachers (Upadhyayas);
NAMO LOAE SAVVA SAAHUUNAM
I bow to all the Jaina Ascetics (Monks/Nuns) in the world devoted to Purification of Soul/Self.
ESO PANCHA NAMOKAARO
SAVVA PAAVA PANAASANO
MANGALAANAM CHA SAVVESIM
PADHAMAM HAVAI MANGALAM
These five salutations evaporate and eradicate negative influences. This is the most sacred and auspicious prayer of all Jaina prayers.
* With some versions 'Om' is recited at the beginning of the first four lines.
Note: 'A' is pronounced as 'u' as in 'but'. 'AA' is a long 'aw' sound as in 'saw'
After Namokar Mantra the presider says:
The deceased, ___her\his name___ followed the Jain religion. For those who may not be familiar with the Jain tradition **I would like at this time to give a brief explanation.
** (Alternatively: "I would like at this time to call upon [person's name] to give a brief explanation.")
Explanation: Jainism is a religious philosophy originated in India which has its origin in the ancient "Shramana" ascetic tradition. The term "Jainism" is derived from the Sanskrit verb "Ji", meaning "to conquer". The verb evolved into the noun "Jina" meaning "conqueror" or "one who conquers". A Jina is one who has conquered their inner human shortcomings or "inner enemies", thereby purifying the Soul and achieving Soul liberation.
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