The Inner Meaning of OM Mantra

Related Topics:Mantras and StotrasSanatan Hindu DharmaYoga and Meditation

“That which all the Vedas declare, which is proclaimed by all penances, seeking which men lead lives of continence, I will tell you in one word — it is ‘OM’.” You will find this word “Om” praised very much in the Vedas, and it is held to be very sacred – Swami Vivekananda. 

For a layman OM is something, which is associated with yoga and meditation. And, it is not completely incorrect either. However, the significance of OM goes deeper than that. 

The OM mantra is an auspicious sound and symbol used widely within Hindu and Buddhist culture, considered one of the most significant and potency mantras worldwide. The significance and spiritual significance of the OM mantra lies deep within spirituality and philosophy.

Symbolism of OM

Each aspect of the symbol has a deeper meaning. The larger curve which is at the lower level symbolises the normal waking state. Here, the mind identifies itself with the physical body and the sense perceives the world. The unconscious state like a deep sleep (Sushupti) is symbolised by the upper curve. Here, the person is withdrawn from the physical world as well as mental activities, there is a state of unawareness. The dream state (Swapna) is symbolised by the middle curve. It is a middle state, where a person dwells into a deeper level of subconsciousness which turns inward. The dot is a representation of turiya or enlightenment. This state is beyond ordinary comprehension and is the absolute and the highest level. 

The OM mantra consists of three syllables, A, U and M. These represent three states of consciousness – waking, dreaming and deep sleep. When all three syllables are combined, they represent a fourth state beyond these three known as Turiya or pure consciousness.

About the origin

As per Hindu texts, OM is defined as the primordial sound of creation itself. From this vibration which is the first one, all the other vibrations are able to manifest. 

At its core, the OM mantra symbolizes the sound of creation itself. It was present at the moment of its birth and will likely continue resonating until its conclusion – often described as an unshakable vibration that brings peace, calm, and harmony into one’s life.

Significance of OM Mantra

•  Representing the universe and consciousness, it is the greatest and the absolute as held by Vivekananda. 
•  The OM mantra is also believed to possess healing properties. Chanting an OM mantra may activate one or more chakras within your body’s energy centres and promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
• Chanting OM brings positivity and energy to one’s life. It makes one calmer and helps to get rid of toxic emotions such as anger.

Why should one meditate on OM?

When a person chants OM during a prayer or meditation, his/her breath gets aligned with the mind, which takes one into the elevated state, the highest form of which is samadhi. Samadhi is the highest level of consciousness as per Sanatan Hindu Philosophical thoughts.  

Now that you know how auspicious and absolute this mantra is, incorporate it into your life. There is a saying in Hinduism, that it is not necessary to go through all these ceremonials to reach the meaning of the Vedanta. Repeating Om is enough.

For a better understanding of Mantras and Strotras, you can consult our astrologers here.