Om – Aum – The Vibration
Om is the foundation of Hinduism, where it is considered as very first sound of the universe. When its said aloud, Om (or Aum) actually sounds like a three-part word :
- A represents creation
- U is manifestation
- M is destruction
A significant and deep respect has to be given while chanting the word ‘OM’ or using its symbol anywhere.
It’s basically all-encompassing—the whole universe joined into a single sound. It represents the union of our mind, body, and the spirit. The Om symbol represents unification within Hinduism. People think about Om as a way to bring those three parts of your self—the mind the body and the spirit—together.
Om also has ties to Buddhism, where it refers to compassion and connection. And in Jainism, it’s often used in reference to Pañca-Parameṣṭhi, or the five supreme beings of the ancient Indian religion.
As far as the physical symbol of Om, its various curves and lines represent five states of consciousness:
- The lower left curve represents the conscious, waking state of being.
- The top left curve is the unconscious state.
- The lower right curve is the dream state—the state between the waking and the unconscious.
- The semicircle at the top is the maya state. “Maya means “illusion”; the biggest obstacle to spiritual development.
- The dot at the top represents the absolute state. “It’s the highest state of consciousness; the ultimate state of spiritual bliss when you can just be.
Why is the Om symbol so important?
Om is considered sacred in the Hindu religion. “We say Om before every Sanskrit prayer, text, any recitation of anything sacred. It’s considered the highest sacred symbol of Hinduism.” Repeating Om as mantra can have powerful effects on one’s overall state. Doing so is thought to help center the mind, body, and spirit, elevate consciousness, deepen focus, and build compassion.
How can I respectfully use it in my practice?
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 you’re using something so sacred, it’s important to do so with respect. Here are two ways to use Om that acknowledge its history and significance: