ॐ
Om (Aum)
(oṃ)The primordial sound; the syllable that contains the entire universe
Full Meaning
Om (or Aum) is the most sacred syllable in Sanskrit. A (creation) + U (preservation) + M (dissolution) — the three sounds that correspond to the three states of consciousness (waking, dreaming, deep sleep) and the three cosmic functions (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva). The silence after Om represents the fourth state — turīya, pure consciousness.
Etymology
The Mandukya Upanishad dedicates itself entirely to unpacking this one syllable. A + U + M = AUM. The three phonemes, the silence that follows, and the infinite beyond.
Usage in Sanskrit Texts
Om begins and ends most Sanskrit prayers, mantras, and meditations. The Yoga Sutras say Om is the "word of God" (Ishvara praṇidhāna). Chanting Om at the correct vibration is said to align the practitioner with the frequency of creation.
ॐ तत्सत् — Om. That is truth. The three words that summarise all Vedic philosophy. (Bhagavad Gita 17.23)
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