Light Of Life

Author(s): Padmasagarsuri
Publisher: Arunoday Foundation

Page 46

'Aum'. Thus in every Dharma in some way or the other, this sound appears; and this sound has the purpose of giving us serenity. It has no other purpose.
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Among Jains, the mantra 'Aum' is uttered along with the names of the Panchaparmeshtis, and it comprises the first sounds of the names of the five Parameshtis. Shri Namaskar Mahamatra is the greatest among the Jain mantras. The five letters at the beginning of the names of the five Parameshtis are combined into 'Aum'. 'A' signifies Arihant. An Ashariri is one who has attained Moksha; and who is bodiless. A and A joining have become 'Aa' according to the grammatical rule which says that when the same vowel sounds combine with the corresponding vowel sounds, they become Dirgas long sounds (Savarnadirga sandhi). 'Aa' signifies Acharyas. The 'u' of the word Upadhyaya combining with it has become 'O' or 'Au'; and when the 'm' sound of the word Muni is joined to it, it becomes 'Aum'.
Thus the Arihanth, the siddhas, the bodiless ones, the Acharyas; the Upadhyayas and Munis (Sadhus) are implied in the sound (Aum). So, we deem it the Parameshti Beejamantra. It gives such importance to the Jain conception of the Panchaparameshtis. This is the Pranabeej for Jains. (the life-mantra). This sound 'Aum' purifies the external atmosphere; and brings about a similar purification of your innerself. Whatever observance or austerity or Japa you commence, that Mantra clears your way; discards and dispels all impurities and spreads the fragrance of sanctity. When we utter this Beejakshara mantra of the Panchparameshtis, when we pronounce the pudgal paramanus of this mantra, it gives mental firmness and serenity. This is its purpose; and this is its scientific explanation. If it is uttered with faith, it bestows upon us spiritual strength. Nothing can be attained in the absence of faith, I may preach and you may listen to me; but all that serves no purpose if you do not have faith.
A priest once said, "Ah! What do you know about God ?
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