Om

Om symbol

004 Gopura, Aum Sign (26596636998)

Golden Mandala with Om symbol at Hindu temple in Malaysia

OM in Rakhi

Shiva as the Lord of Dance LACMA edit

Om or Aum (Sanskrit: ॐ) is a sacred sound and a spiritual icon in Indian religions. It is also a mantra in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Om is considered to be the primordial sound, the sound of the universe, and the essence of all creation. The symbol has a rich meaning and significance in various spiritual traditions, representing the universe's essence, the ultimate reality, or the soul (Atman).

Etymology and Spellings

The term Om is derived from the Sanskrit language, where it is spelled as "ओम्" (AUM). The sound is a composite of three phonemes, 'A', 'U', and 'M', which represent the beginning, duration, and dissolution of the universe, as well as the waking, dreaming, and deep sleep states of consciousness.

Symbolism

In Hinduism, Om is considered the primal sound from which all other sounds and creation emerge. It symbolizes the Brahman (ultimate reality) and the universe. In Vedanta, Om represents the Atman (self within) and Brahman (ultimate reality), suggesting the interconnectedness of the microcosm and the macrocosm.

Buddhism also recognizes the significance of Om, particularly in Tibetan Buddhism, where it is the prefix to many mantras and is significant in the practice of Vajrayana.

In Jainism, Om is important in the practice of recitation and meditation, symbolizing the five great vows (Mahavratas).

Usage in Meditation and Yoga

Om is widely used in meditation and yoga practices. Chanting Om is believed to create a vibrational frequency that harmonizes the mind, body, and spirit, facilitating a state of peace and tranquility. It is often chanted at the beginning and end of yoga sessions to connect with the universal consciousness.

Representation

The visual representation of Om consists of three curves, a semicircle, and a dot, each symbolizing different states of consciousness and the universe. The large bottom curve represents the waking state (A, Jagrat), the middle curve represents the dream state (U, Swapna), and the upper curve represents the state of deep sleep (M, Sushupti). The dot signifies the fourth state of consciousness (Turiya), which is the state of enlightenment or spiritual awakening. The semicircle at the top represents Maya (illusion) and separates the dot from the other three curves, indicating that the ultimate state is beyond the physical universe.

In Popular Culture

Om has transcended its religious origins to become a symbol of peace and spirituality in popular culture around the world. It is commonly found in various forms of art, music, yoga studios, and fashion, symbolizing a connection to spirituality and the universe.

Conclusion

Om is more than just a symbol or sound; it is an integral part of the spiritual practices in Indian religions, embodying the essence of the universe and the interconnectedness of all life. Its significance and use in meditation and yoga have also made it a universal symbol of peace, spirituality, and harmony.