«Om» is a sound known by practically anyone, since even in cartoons it is used to indicate that a character is in a state of meditation. In addition, for those who are more involved in spiritual matters, the ‘Om’ symbol is also very familiar and one of the basics in the field of meditation, yoga and everything related to the holistic and spiritual.
‘Om’ is one of the most sacred mantras, symbolizes the divine Brahman (supreme universal principle) and the entire universe. With roots in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, the ‘Om’ has a lot of meaning, and can now be seen and heard in spiritual spaces around the world.
Meaning of ‘Om’
When said out loud, ‘Om’ (or ‘Aum’) actually sounds like a three-part word. The TO represents creationthe U is the manifestation and the M is destructionso it’s basically all-encompassing: it’s the entire universe rolled into one sound.
It also represents the union of mind, body and spirit., and in Buddhism, ‘Om’ refers to compassion and connection. In Hinduism, ‘Om’ is considered the first sound that existed in the universe, because before it there was nothing.
Regarding the graphic representation of the ‘Om’ symbol, its various curves and lines represent five states of consciousness:
- The lower left curve symbolizes the conscious state of wakefulness.
- The upper left curve is the unconscious state.
- The lower right curve is the dream state, the state between wakefulness and the unconscious.
- The semicircle at the top is the state Maya. Maya means «illusion», which is considered the greatest obstacle to spiritual development.
- The dot at the top represents the absolute state, the highest state of consciousness, the supreme state of spiritual bliss, when you can simply be.
The importance of the ‘Om’ symbol
‘Om’ is the highest sacred symbol in the Hindu religionfor this reason it is usually pronounced before each prayer in Sanskrit or any text or recitation of something sacred.
The repetition of ‘Om’ as a mantra can have powerful effects on a person’s general state. It is believed to do helps center the mind, body, and spirit, raise awareness, deepen focus, and generate compassion.
How to use this mantra properly and respectfully?
If you are not traditionally Hindu, Buddhist or Jain but appreciate the meaning behind ‘Om’ you can still integrate the sound and symbol into your spiritual practice, but when wearing something so sacred it is important to do so with respect. Here are two ways to use ‘Om’ that acknowledge its history and meaning:
How I sing: As already stated, chanting or reciting ‘Om’ can have powerful effects on the body and mind. If you want to try it, what is recommended is to first acknowledge its history and context and then repeat it silently in your mind or say it out loud while meditating or doing yoga.
As a symbol: If learning about the ‘Om’ symbol and what it represents makes you want to incorporate it into your life, feel free to add it to your meditation or prayer space at home, either as an element within your décor or among the elements that make up your altar. Let their presence in that space serve as a reminder of your connection to the universe, as well as the unification of mind, body, and spirit.
It may interest you: The power of ‘Om’ to calm a crying baby
Cover image: pinnacleanimates on Freepik