The symbol of OM (ॐ) is often printed on T-shirts, engraved on the skin in tattoos and seen in countless electronic materials. Even with all this popularity, few people know what it really means. First of all, "OM" is the most relevant mantra in Hinduism, or Indian religions as a whole. It is present at the beginning and at the end of all prayersof Hinduism, as well as the "amen" in Christian prayers.

Besides being the most important mantra, OM - or Aum - is considered the sound that has the most power, because it is a representation of the creator's voice during the creation of the whole universe. It is in it that all sounds, mantras and words are united; it is considered as the first existing sound. Did you know that "OM" is considered the most important mantra in Hinduism? Check out the article, deepen your knowledgeof this meaning and understand its power!

Origin of OM

The most distant place where some kind of mention of OM has been found is in a Hindu sacred writing called the "Mandukya Upishad" where OM is defined as "indestructible", that is, far superior to time. This writing is also associated with Vedanta, which is one of the six philosophies of Hinduism.

Defined also as an endless knowledge and as the real essence of all things that exist, including life, OM came to represent Shiva, Visnu and Brahma, which are the holy trinity of gods in Hinduism. Because of this factor, OM is considered as a state of constant, unending happiness. It is the state where a human being is only consciousness and lives in peace with himself and with the whole universethat is around you.

Some people believe that the symbol OM originated within Yoga practice. In this case, it is claimed that in the creation of the Universe, OM was the exact sound that started all things seen and felt.

OM Symbol - meaning

The OM symbol is composed of three curves, a semicircle (or crescent), and a dot. These elements represent the states of human consciousness:

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• The lower curve symbolizes the waking state, the state of full consciousness. It brings together the five senses to experience and manifest itself in the world.
• The middle curve symbolizes the dream state. It is representative of an individual's recollection when he comes to himself and experiences the dream world.
• The upper bend symbolizes deep sleep. Here the mind is completely closed, without dreams or possible desires.
• The semicircle represents illusion, that which prevents an individual from achieving happiness.
• The dot symbolizes the state of absolute consciousness. It is where happiness and peace are found, and where the connection to the divine becomes possible.

Om in Hinduism

As already stated, for Hindus the sound of "OM" is the creator himself, and mantras are considered the sources of all things. "AUM", which is the pronunciation of the sound "OM", symbolizes inertia, the true essence, the beginning. Hinduism adds the mantra to the following trines:

• The main Hindu gods: Brahma, Vixnu and Shiva.
• The symbols of the world and of the human being: earth, space and sky; body, thought and soul.
• The qualities of the cosmos: materiality, energy and essentiality.

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The mantra OM

The mantra OM is pronounced at the beginning and end of practices with spiritual intent, relaxation or Buddhist techniques, for example. Commonly this mantra is chanted in Yoga classes, and can be spoken by anyone. Just as the symbol of OM represents the states of consciousness, it can also be a symbol of the states of life: present, past, future and silence, which symbolizes the reality thatIn Yoga practices OM is also used to live in the present moment. The pronunciation "Aum" makes an individual get in touch with himself and abstract all the excess of past and future that may exist in his mind in order to achieve happiness.

By chanting this mantra, we reach an approximate sound vibration of 432 hz, which is similar to the vibrational frequency found in nature, so by reciting OM we metaphorically and physically connect with all beings that inhabit nature and the universe.

Physiologically speaking, the rhythm of vibrations that the pronunciation of "AUM" has provides a relaxing effect on the nervous system, similar to the practice of meditation. That is why the mantra OM is often used to get rid of stress and relax the mind.

How to practice

The mantra OM can be practiced for several purposes; everything depends on the intention of the person practicing it. It can be chanted out loud with the intention of healing the physical body: say the word "Aum" in a loud voice for about eight seconds, and for six of those seconds you will keep your mouth closed, keeping only the sound. For mental healing, you should chant it at medium volume,follow the second count and keep your mouth closed. If your goal is just to take care of your emotions, repeat it mentally.

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It is important that you understand that these tips are simple ways to include the mantra OM in your daily life. When you decide to practice it, prefer to be alone in a place where there is silence, so that you can concentrate on your intention and on what you want at that moment.has on the human body and mind.

The power of OM in our lives

To practice OM is to reconnect with yourself and also to get closer to the creator. It is to live in the present moment and understand that our vibrations attract new vibrations. The awareness we have when we access our inner self is enhanced during the practice of OM, which is considered simple, but carries the power to align a person's seven chakras.

By chanting this mantra, we push away excess thoughts and provide relaxation to our mind, thereby dispelling all negative thoughts, increasing our ability to concentrate, feeling good, and seeing clearly the path that can lead us to happiness.

Om mani padme hum

Om mani padme hum is one of the best known mantras among those who study this subject. It is considered the mantra of compassion and mercy, and is essential to society as a whole. Although it was forgotten for centuries, it was revived by Buddha Padmasambhava, who brought it to the world.

By analyzing each of the syllables that form mantras, it is possible to learn a little more about the energies it carries. "Om", for example, symbolizes everything that can still be purified, such as our words, our thoughts, and our actions. The meaning of "Mani" is jewel, indicating something that is capable of removing someone's suffering.

Then, "Padme" is a symbol of wisdom, because it indicates the lotus flower, which develops in a hostile environment and remains beautiful and pure. Finally, "Hum" is the one that translates the principle of indivisibility. It is from it that we unite body, mind, and speech, with method and wisdom.

Considering this information, we understand that the mantra Om mani padme hum is responsible for dispelling any negativity and suffering that may strike a person, allowing him to see each situation clearly and to seek wisdom in the discourses he reproduces.

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By chanting this mantra, even the air is purified. Furthermore, the negative karma you carry will be neutralized, ensuring that the universe brings you only good vibrations. Om mani padme hum can even be written on flags or stones to protect the surroundings of your home.

To take advantage of this purification brought by the mantra, you should chant it at times when negative thoughts are manifesting in your mind. In a quiet place, free from external interference, recite each syllable clearly, as many times as you feel necessary. Thus, everything around you will vibrate light!

With the following YouTube video, you will be inspired by the energy that the mantra Om mani padme hum carries. Stimulate yourself with its repetition!

If you didn't already know the meaning of the symbol OM, use what you learned today to get in touch with your inner self. This mantra is capable of relieving the weight you usually carry on a daily basis and show you that finding happiness can be much simpler than you imagine.a chance to these practices that are so beneficial to human beings.