OM

Om or Aum is a sacred syllable that symbolizes the omnipotent and the source of all existence. Om, therefore, represents both the unmanifested (nirguna) and manifested (saguna) aspects of Life. The sound of Om is also called Pranava, meaning that it sustains life and runs through Prana or breath.

The Music of Om

Om is not a word but rather an intonation, which, like music, it transcends the barriers of age, race, culture and even species. It is made up of three Sanskrit letters, aa, au and ma which, when combined together, make the sound Aum or Om. It is believed to be the basic sound of the world and to contain all other sounds. If repeated with the correct intonation, it can resonate throughout the body so that the sound penetrates to the centre of one's being, the atman or soul. Harmony, peace and bliss is achieved simply by vibrating the sacred syllable Om.

The Vision of Om

Om provides a dualistic viewpoint. On one hand, it projects the mind beyond the abstract and inexpressible. On the other hand, it makes the absolute more tangible and comprehensive. It encompasses all potentialities and possibilities; it is everything that was, is, or can yet be. It is omnipotent and likewise remains undefined.

The Power of Om

During meditation, when we chant Om, we create within ourselves a vibration that drives away all worldly thoughts and removes distraction and infuses new vigour in our body. The momentary silence between each chant becomes palpable. The mind moves between the opposites of sound and silence until, at last, it ceases the sound.

This is the state of trance, where the mind and the intellect are transcended as the individual self merges with the Infinite Self in a moment of realization. It is a moment when the worldly affairs are lost in the desire for the universe. Such is the immeasurable power of Om. When you chant Om, you feel you are the pure, light and consciousness.

Meditation on Om

Retire to a quite place, sit down, close your eyes and completely relax your muscles and nerves. Concentrate on the space between your eyebrows and quietness and silence of the conscious mind. Begin to repeat "Om" mentally. You must repeat Om with the feeling that you are the infinite. Mere repetition of Om will not bring the desired result. Keep the meaning of Om always at heart. Feel Om. Feel that you are the pure, perfect, eternal, and free. Feel that you are absolute consciousness of the unchanging existence. Every part of your body should vibrate with these ideas. This feeling should be kept up all day long. Practice regularly and steadily with sincerity, faith, perseverance and enthusiasm in the morning, midday and evening.