Origins of the OM Symbol
Hinduism is an ancient religion, with close ties to both Buddhism and Jainism. Within its religious practice, it is common to see the depiction of a simple yet significant symbol—the OM. This symbol is a representation of the Universe and all of its connected parts, including the physical and metaphysical domains. To the Hindus, OM symbolizes Brahman, the ultimate Brahmin God, the Supreme Consciousness, and the Atman, or individual soul.
The OM symbol first appeared in ancient religious texts, known as the Upanishads. In the Upanishads, the OM symbol is associated with the Supreme Being and is often interpreted as the essence of all that is. By calling attention to this symbol, the Upanishads emphasize the idea of oneness, of all that exists and how it is ultimately connected.
Meaning of the OM Symbol
The OM Symbol is seen as a holistic representation of the entire universe. It symbolizes the cycle of life—creation, existence, destruction and eventually, the dawn of new life. According to Hindu belief, OM is a seed sound and is traditionally seen as the sound of creation. By chanting and meditating upon the OM sound, it is believed that one can connect with the underlying force of the universe.
To Hindus, the OM is more than just a symbol, it is also a mantra. The sounds associated with the mantra are believed to induce a calming and meditative state of mind. OM, when chanted, vibrates in oneness with the universe and is a reminder of its vast power.
Meditation and OM Symbol
The OM Symbol is commonly used in the practice of meditation, particularly in Yoga. During meditation, the vocal repetition of OM is used to focus and guide one’s thoughts and feelings into a calmer and more relaxed state of being. It is believed that by focusing on this symbol, one can establish a divine connection, attaining a higher state of awareness. The chant is also seen as a way to create spiritual alignment and harmony, which is the ultimate goal of meditation.
When used in meditation, the OM Symbol is often broken down into four distinct sounds—A-U-M-Brahma (the fourth and final sound). The A-U-M is seen as a representation of the three states of existence—past, present and future. The entire phrase ‘OM Brahman’ can be seen as a call to the divine, a call to connecting with the oneness of the universe.
The Physical Form of the OM Symbol
The OM Symbol is usually inscribed or written in a traditional Devanagari script, but it can also be formed with just a few simple lines. It is commonly drawn with a rounded shape, with four petals radiating from the center point. The curved lines of the petals are said to represent the four directions—east, west, south, north.
In Hinduism, the colors used to depict the OM Symbol also carry great significance. The colors red, blue and yellow often adorn the symbol, standing for the trinity of Brahma (the creator), Shiva (the destroyer) and Vishnu (the protector). Golden, silver and white are also associated colors and they are said to represent the sun, moon and the stars.
Conclusion
The OM Symbol is a powerful representation of Hinduism, its beliefs and its spiritual practices. It is a reminder of the oneness of creation, a reminder of our ability to draw closer to the divine. To Hindus, the OM is more than just a symbol, it is a call to connect, meditate, and to explore the potential of a higher state of existence.
Practices with the OM Symbol
The OM Symbol is commonly used in the practice of meditation. It is believed that the vocal repetition of OM helps to reduce stress, anxiety, and even physical ailments. During meditation, Hindus may form physical mudras with their fingers, corresponding to the syllables of the mantra A-U-M. Additionally, certain breathing exercises—known as pranayama— are commonly done in conjunction with the chanting of OM to help quiet the mind and gain insight into the inner workings of the self.
The Significance of the OM Symbol
The OM Symbol carries a deep meaning within Hinduism. It is seen as a reminder of the universal truth, the truth of oneness. It is used to connect with the Supreme Consciousness, the divine source of power that continually pervades the universe. To Hindus, the OM symbolizes the ongoing cycle of life, the manifestation and eventual dissolution of the world.
Within the Hindu practice, the OM Symbol is used to evoke a sense of peace and to direct one’s thoughts in a more positive direction. It is an invitation to explore the truth of life, to see the unity and connection between all living things.
Rituals with the OM Symbol
The OM Symbol is used in many rituals of the Hindu faith. At the start of a prayer or puja, the OM Symbol is often spoken or invoked to represent the cause of the rituals. In addition, in some Hindu texts and practices, OM is seen as a code-word to ‘unlock’ spiritual knowledge and insight.
Before an important function or celebration, Hindus often perform a Ganesha puja, a ritual devoted to the god of beginnings, Ganesh. During the Ganesh puja, the OM Symbol is typically said or chanted along with other mantras and invocations. The sound of OM is seen as a way to honor, express gratitude to, and invoke the presence of the all-powerful Ganesh.
Use of the OM Symbol in Art
The OM Symbol is a popular subject of Hindu art. The symbol can be found adorning the walls of temples, engraved on religious vehicles, painted on cloths and jewellery, and even sculpted on religious figures. Many tattoo artists also offer clients tattoos of the OM Symbol, as it is seen as a powerful reminder of the oneness of the universe.
In recent years, the OM Symbol has also become popular in yoga studios, as well as in wellness and self-help workshops. People often use the symbol to help them focus and direct their thoughts while meditating. By chanting the syllable, one is reminded to be aware of the world around them and to connect to the higher purpose of life.
