The mantra “Om” is considered an ancient sacred sound. It is classified as sacred. Many Vedic mantras widely used in India begin with the sound “om”. It helps clear the mind and reconnect with the Universe. Sound is used for spiritual practices and meditation. However, to obtain the desired effect, you need to read the mantra correctly and understand its meaning.
The Om mantra is used for spiritual practices.
Origin of the mantra "Om"
There is no detailed explanation of how the mantra came to be. Followers of different teachings have different versions. For example, in books about the Vedic religion it is noted that first the sound “om” appeared, then the Supreme Absolute arose, which created the Universe. In India, on the contrary, they believe that God created the mantra, and it became the impetus for the emergence of everything that exists. The sound caused vibrations in the universe that connected heaven and earth.
Regardless of the teaching, adherents of different religions agree on one thing: the sages were able to hear the mantra during meditation. They passed on the knowledge to everyone. The names of the sages have not been preserved in history. It is assumed that the mantra was felt by several enlightened people.
Who is it suitable for?
The meaning of the Om tattoo is the symbiosis of the spirit, the feminine and masculine principles, all living and nonliving things created by God. Om personifies the Creator, who is outside of time, and his creation. Thus, the owner of the tattoo is aware of the divine origin of each person and his own nature. Only the movement of the soul towards the sun and higher matters can lead to harmony and mental balance.
Typically, the motive for applying an Om tattoo is a passion for yoga, Taoist practices, and oriental culture. This symbol is equally suitable for both men and women who find answers to questions in a similar spiritual flow.
Another meaning for a tattoo with Om is that it is a great great force that controls the Universe. It helps a person decide on the choice of life path, set the right vector, and protect him from troubles and misfortunes. That is why this sign is often chosen as a talisman and amulet. Even when it seems like there is no way out, it gives enlightenment. Only by going through obstacles and life's hardships can one gain wisdom and know the essence of existence.
Om tattoo is suitable for true believers. Only to them can she bestow strength, knowledge and fortitude. Those who consider Hinduism or Buddhism a temporary hobby should refrain from such a drawing.
The sacred symbol requires careful treatment, so desecrating it by getting a tattoo below the waist is strongly discouraged. The best place to apply is the solar plexus area, where the third chakra, or chest, is located. This is where positive vibrations come from, changing the owner’s destiny for the better.
Mantra “Om” in various practices
It is believed that the sacred mantra first appeared in Hinduism, after which it was borrowed by other cultures.
People often get "Om" tattoos.
Nowadays sound is used not only during spiritual practices, but also in popular culture. "Om" can be found in films. Songs are dedicated to the mantra. Sometimes people get tattoos of a magical symbol. It is believed that such a sign on the body helps to find a way out of even the most difficult situations.
In Hinduism
In Hinduism, sound symbolizes the Universe. It unites 3 main deities - Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva. In an ancient Hindu document, Om is compared to a boat, on board which a person is able to cross the river of his fears to the opposite bank.
Sound is used not only during rituals and spiritual practices. It is believed that the syllable has the power of love, attracts all good things to a person, and can manifest itself at different levels of consciousness.
According to followers of Hinduism, the mantra helps clear the mind, sharpen intuition and make the brain work more actively.
In Buddhism
In Buddhism, the interpretation of the mantra has changed slightly, but the general meaning remains the same. Sound unites the mind, speech and body of the Buddha. Its recitation helps followers achieve enlightenment and get rid of sins.
The mantra "Om" allows you to achieve enlightenment.
In Buddhism, a syllable is rarely used alone. There is a special sacred prayer: “Om Mani Padme Hum.” It is believed that it cleanses the soul, which gives the right to be reborn in the human world in the next life. Literally translated, the mantra means “Hail, Treasure of the Lotus Flower.”
Reading syllables saves a person from envy, jealousy, pride, greed and selfish aspirations.
In Jainism
In Jainism, the sound “Om” symbolizes 5 supreme beings:
- Arhat. An instrument of God, with the help of which he creates a new or changes an existing world. In a simplified version of the teaching, an arhat is a representative of the Higher Powers, i.e., a prophet or saint. Some followers of Jainism believe that this being is God himself, his incarnation, modified to fulfill some purpose.
- Siddha. People who managed to achieve a state close to the divine. Thanks to this, their souls are freed from all obstacles and fetters. It is believed that a siddha is endowed with perfect knowledge of the Universe from birth. Their perception is beyond the capabilities of mortals.
- Acharya. Higher monks who guide and help other people on the path to enlightenment. Acharya acts as an example for others. The monk governs the community, enforces rules and maintains discipline. He does not refuse training to those who wish and takes on the responsibilities of a mentor.
- Upadhyaya. The second highest leader of the order after the acharya. Upadhyaya is the junior mentor. He is engaged in disseminating sacred knowledge among people, acts as a spiritual teacher, travels and preaches.
- Mooney. This is the name given to sages and monks who have embarked on the path of enlightenment. Many munis are endowed with supernatural powers. Their behavior is described as naive, a little childish. Munis are laconic and often practice sacred silence. This helps them focus and get closer to enlightenment.
Tips for Sketching
When drawing up sketches, the master is guided by the principles of aesthetics. If you attach deep sacred meaning to a symbol, be sure to provide this information in the preliminary interview. This will help you express your aspirations and wishes as accurately as possible.
There are many options for artistic expressions and techniques. If the drawing is supposed to reflect the spiritual path of a person, the symbol is given a traditional look.
A flower vignette is used as decoration. To read the sign more freely, techniques for creating volume are used.
We recommend reading: Tattoo amulets
How does the Om mantra work?
The syllable creates vibrations that affect the entire human body. To understand what positive effect a mantra can give, you need to consider the meaning of all the sounds that make up it.
"Om" is often read as "aum".
Individually, the sounds mean the following:
- "A". A sign of creation, the beginning of something new, dreams. The idea of heaven is associated with sound. It personifies the material side of the Universe and the state of wakefulness.
- "U". Sound of action, maintaining stability. Sometimes it is associated with the element of earth. Sound symbolizes the universal mind and the human mind. It is associated with a state of active sleep accompanied by visions.
- "M". The sound of completion, destruction and the underworld. It is associated with human and universal awareness. The sound symbolizes a peaceful sleep without visions.
Thus, the mantra combines the beginning, middle and end. It personifies all processes occurring in the body. For example, the formation of cells, their participation in metabolism and death with further replacement.
The vibrations of the sound “Om” affect the human body.
The mantra normalizes the functioning of all internal organs and tissues. It bestows harmony and awareness of the universal rules of the world order.
Bottom line
To summarize - "om" is a very powerful sign that has many meanings. There are approximately 19 of them. But to summarize, we can say that it is a symbol of the highest spirituality that a person can achieve. It can be used in meditation, reminding yourself of spiritual harmony and constant development. Many musical groups use it to show the mysticism and versatility of the world. The “Om” sign today is a symbol of world culture.
The effect of the mantra "Om"
In ancient times, people endowed this syllable with properties that were close to magical. It was believed that even mentally reciting a mantra enlightens the mind and improves intellectual abilities. Later, scientists proved the effectiveness of the mantra and confirmed that it has a beneficial effect on the entire body. It was not possible to fully explain this phenomenon, but it is assumed that the phenomenon is associated with self-programming and vibrations.
For example, in the course of long-term studies, scientists have identified the connection of the syllable “Om” with the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of the body.
Participants in the experiment were asked to chant a mantra daily. After a few months, their lung capacity increased. Some noted that their blood pressure returned to normal. In Eastern religious teachings, the respiratory system is associated with human sociality, his sociability and the ability to establish trusting relationships with others. It is believed that the mantra indirectly helps to find one’s place in society.
What effect can be achieved by constantly reciting the golden mantra?
Saying the prayer daily a set number of times gives the practice a powerful result:
- success, recognition in society;
- prosperity, material wealth, well-being;
- implementation of set goals;
- embodiment of true desires;
- achieving enlightenment of consciousness.
Daily recitation of the mantra will bring material wealth.
How to use the mantra "Om"
You can get a small effect even in the absence of strict adherence to the rules. For example, regardless of the conditions, the syllable will stimulate the work of the internal glands. However, for maximum benefit, you need to read the mantra correctly, be able to create a suitable environment, and learn to determine when you are internally open to spiritual practices.
Singing sound
You need to pronounce the mantra in such a way that internal vibrations arise. The process should not be rushed. First, take a deep breath. The “A” sound should be uterine, as if it were coming from the belly. Lips wide open. "U" sounds like "oh". “M” is pronounced with closed lips. The sound is a bit like a buzzing or buzzing sound.
The sound “M” is pronounced with closed lips.
Repetition frequency
The number of pronunciations should be a multiple of 3. It is advisable to repeat the mantra 108 times, but this may be difficult for beginners. There is no need to force yourself to continue reading if you are tired. This will have the opposite effect, causing irritation and increasing stress levels. Choose the pace individually. It should be comfortable for you.
The text of the spell and its meaning
The word "Om" in Sanskrit is a combination of 3 sounds "A" "U" "M" and is pronounced as "Aum" and in Latin it is denoted as "Omn". Graphically it looks like a unity of letters above which a crescent is depicted.
“A” represents the physical world and man during the waking period. "U" represents the Supreme Mind and the state of sleep. "M" symbolizes a reality that cannot be explained, i.e. This is everyone's individual understanding.
The symbol is sacred and has great energetic power that can purify a person’s consciousness. It is believed that "Om" is infinite.
Representing the main sound in the Universe, it reflects 3 processes - creation, maintenance and destruction. In another interpretation, the syllable personifies 3 main human states, which include reality, sleep and dream.
"Aum" symbolizes spiritual development. It is often compared to “Amen.”
Magic text.
Practices and meditations with the sound “Om”
The most widespread are classical active and passive practices. The latter involve listening to an audio recording. Active practice is the independent reading of the mantra. People who have already mastered the basics can sign up for group meditations. Regardless of the chosen method, it is recommended not to drink or eat 2 hours before the start of practice. This will help avoid blocking energy channels. It is advisable to conduct meditations in the morning or evening, but you can create an individual schedule.
Passive method
The passive method is good for beginners. Active recitation of the mantra can cause dizziness for them. Listening allows you to slowly become accustomed to the vibrations and a state of relaxation. During the meditation process, you need to listen to your own feelings, feel the body’s response to sound vibrations. You can choose a recording with background music if this does not interfere with your perception.
Active method
You should prepare for active meditation. Start with a few asanas. This will improve blood circulation and help you get into the right frame of mind. Before reading or singing, take a few deep breaths. If you have already mastered meditation skills, focus on the Agni chakra. Your body should be as relaxed as possible. The only important condition is a straight back if you are sitting. Say the mantra smoothly and slowly, ending as you exhale. Experiment with reading speed and voice volume.
Advanced Practice
Group meditation is the next step. If you think that you have already advanced in self-knowledge, try to find like-minded people. Solitary meditations are aimed at the inner world. They teach you to be aware of what is happening around you and yourself, to manage your emotions, but they poorly develop social skills. Group meditations help you feel harmony with other people. They make a person more responsive and understanding, develop empathy, and give confidence.
You can find like-minded people, for example, on the forum. Beginners are advised to look for a ready-made group, since starting with an organization is more difficult. It is advisable to meditate in a separate room. Physical proximity strengthens connections between people and speeds up finding balance. As a last resort, it is allowed to conduct spiritual practices at a distance using programs for audio and video calls.
Execution technique
The Om tattoo (photos of finished works and sketches can be viewed in the gallery) looks beautiful in tribal and ethnic styles. The image is usually monochrome and not very large in size. Compositions with lotus are often found, especially among the fair sex. Om tattoo looks stylish using minimalism technique. It is better to hide a small drawing from prying eyes in order to enhance its magical effect.
Photo gallery
The Benefits of Repetition
1 circle of the mantra “Aum” counts 108 times. This number is sacred. Beginners are advised to start with a small number of readings, gradually increasing the practice time.
The meditative repetition of a mantra is called japa. There are 3 forms of japa, where the spell is pronounced out loud, in a whisper and silently in the mind. To avoid losing count, it is suggested to use a rosary.
There is an opinion that if you cast a spell at least three times, the deification of body and spirit occurs. Repeating the prayer 21 times spiritualizes all being.
The sound “Om” stores a large amount of energy and requires not only repeated pronunciation of the text, but also an understanding of its meaning. Otherwise, the process will become purely mechanical and will not bring the desired result.
Correct repetition of the mantra, with immersion in the sacred meaning, leads to the activation of the chakras, the opening of vitality and the achievement of divine harmony.