Namokar Mantra

The Ṇamōkāra mantra, also variously referred to as the Navakār Mantra (Prakrit: नवकार मन्त्र), Namaskār Mantra or the Pancha Parameshti Namaskār, is the most significant mantra in Jainism.[1] This is the first prayer recited by the Jains while doing Samayik. While reciting this mantra, the devotee bows with respect to the Panch Parameshti (the Supreme Five) in the order of their sanctity of soul. The Navkar Mantra is the most important mantra in Jainism and can be recited at any time. While reciting the Navkar Mantra, we are bowing down with respect to Arihantas (souls who have reached the state of non-attachment towards worldly process), Siddhas (liberated souls), Ächäryäs (heads of sadhus and sadhvis), Upädhyäyas (those who teach scriptures to sadhus and sadhvis), Sädhus (monks, who have voluntarily given up social, economical and family relationships) and Sädhvis (nuns, who have voluntarily given up social, economical and family relationships). Collectively, they are called Panch Parmesthi (five supreme spiritual people). In this mantra we worship their virtues rather than worshipping any one particular person; therefore, this Mantra is not named after Lord Mahavir, Lord Parshvanath or Adinath, etc. When we recite Navkar Mantra it, also reminds us that, we need to be like them. This mantra is also called Namaskär or Namokär Mantra because we are bowing down.

The Navkär Mantra contains the main message of Jainism. The message is very clear. If we want to be liberated from this world then we have to take the first step of renunciation by becoming a monk or a nun. This is the beginning. If we stay on the right path then we will proceed to a higher state, Arihant, and ultimately proceed to Siddha after nirvana (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). The goal of every Jain is, or should be, to become a siddha.

They are as follows:

Those who have cleared their gati karmas (arihants)
The fully liberated souls (siddhas)
The spiritual leaders or Preceptors (acharyas)
The teachers (upajjhayas)
The monks or sages in the world.