The meaning of Om Namah Shivaya
Om Namah Shivaya (ॐ नमः शिवाय) is the mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the most important mantras of Shivaism and an equally powerful Hindu mantra. The mantra Om Namah Shivaya dates back literally thousands of years and is mentioned in the Yajur Veda, in the hymn Shri Rudram.
It is difficult to think of a more emblematic mantra in India than Om Namah Shivaya. This mantra is the most important form of devotion in Hinduism. Shivaism is a branch of Hinduism that believes that Shiva is the most important, if not the only relevant Hindu god.
This has influenced many other currents in India, because Shivaism is very influential and very old: about 2500 years if not more. It is considered to be one of the oldest forms of Hinduism.
Shiva is considered the God of Yoga, endowed with universal, supreme and absolute knowledge. He is also revered for his 5 great functions: he is the creator, the preserver, the transformer, the concealer and the revelator.
Shiva is often depicted in a meditative posture as in the image at the beginning of this article.
Although there are many schools of thought within Shiva, all practice the sacred chant Om Namah Shivaya.
The meaning of Om Namah Shivaya
According to the lyrics, this chant would allow for deep spiritual experiences and even favors such as the development of supernatural gifts, when practiced correctly and in depth.
The meaning of the mantra Om Namah Shivaya is relatively simple:
• Om: before there was a universe, there was a vacuum of pure existence without vibrations.
• The vibration that created the universe, known as Om, came out of that void.
• Namah: This literally translates into bowing, bowing.
• Shivaya : This refers to Shiva; but more than that, it means the inner self.
When perfectly understood, this Mantra means "I bow before the Inner Self".
The practice
There are no particular rituals or ceremonies indicated for this mantra... just the chanting pure and simple.
This means that it can be performed anywhere, like in the subway, in the car, or simply at home. However, it is important to sit up straight and have your full attention on the mantra while you chant it.
Once you are in position, all you have to do is repeat the mantra several times. But as the mantra repeats, visualize yourself, bowing to your true inner self.
It is said that regular practice of this mantra allows everyone to connect with their own divine nature.
Now watch this video to hear the pronunciation of this beautiful mantra.
