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EVERYDAY PRAYERS
NISHIHI, NISHIHI, NISHIHI
In order to enter the temple with a clear conscience leaving all the worries of school, work, and family behind, Nishihi, Nishihi, Nishishi are the first words people recite before they enter the temple. In this way, one will be able to fully devote the heart and soul to the task at hand - praying to the Tirthankars. One should also walk around the alter or the temple three times, while singing one of numerous devotional songs, specifically called "Couplets of Circumbulation". Each walk around the alter or temple symbolizes one of the three jewels, which are Samyak Gnyana (true knowledge), Samyak Darshana (true vision), and Samyik Charitra (proper conduct).
NAMOKAR MANTRA
As every religion enjoins us to bow down to the Gods, Deities, scriptures or monks, the Namokar Mantra is one way of making obeisance to all the Arihants, and the Siddhas, the perfect souls that have achieved nirvana. When one bows down to God or the Deities, one's spiritual progress is enhanced. Thus, this ritual is a preparatory stage for the worshipper in order to initiate the process of spiritual development.
Jains bow to the Panch Parmesthis - Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, and Sadhu - because they live in the highest supernatural state, free from the bonds of attachment. It is believed that those who recite Namokar Mantra are removing from within themselves the poison of passions, and therefore are annihilating their sins. Constantly meditating upon the Panch Parmesthis, who are great guides for mankind, can help us achieve the highest bliss.
It is important to note that Jainism does not entail the worship of miracles or supernatural phenomena. The Panch Parmesthis are to be worshipped because they have acquired and utilized rational perception, rational knowledge, and rational conduct to chart out a path to the soul's liberation. However, no mantra can alleviate pain and suffering, no person can perform miracles, no religious rites performed by other individuals can help us in our material or spiritual pursuits, and no spiritual progress or salvation can be attained by mere acceptance of a religious personality such as an Arihant or a Siddha. Physical, mental, or spiritual well-being can be achieved only through self-endeavor.
THE NAMOKAR MANTRA
Om Namo Arihantaanam We revere the Arihants, the Supreme Human Beings
Om Namo Siddhaanam We revere the Siddhas, the Supreme Beings
Om Namo Airiyaanam We revere the Acharyas, the sages who preach
Om Namo Uvajjhayanam We revere Upaadhyaayaas, the sages who study
Om Namo Loye Savva Saahoonam We revere the Sadhus, entirety of sages
Eso Panch Namokkaaro Savva Paavappanaasano Mangalaanam Cha Savvesim Padhamam Havai Mangalam This five-fold reverance eliminates all sins. It is the first and foremost among all auspiciousness (benedictions).
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