HinduOfUniverse
What a Mantra is
A mantra is a religious syllable or poem, typically from the Sanskrit
language. Their use varies according to the school and philosophy associated
with the mantra. They are primarily used as spiritual conduits, words or
vibrations that instill one-pointed concentration in the devotee. Other purposes
have included religious ceremonies to accumulate wealth, avoid danger, or
eliminate enemies. Mantras originated in India with Vedic Hinduism and were
later adopted by Buddhists and Jains, now popular in various modern forms of
spiritual practice which are loosely based on practices of these Eastern
religions.
The word mantra is a Sanskrit word consisting of the root man- "manas or
mind" and the suffix -tra meaning, tool, hence a literal translation would be
"mind tool". Mantras are interpreted to be effective as sound (vibration), to
the effect that great emphasis is put on correct pronunciation (resulting in an
early development of a science of phonetics in India). They are intended to
deliver the mind from illusion and material inclinations. Chanting is the
process of repeating a mantra.
Introduction
Mantras have some features in common with spells in general, in that they are
a translation of the human will or desire into a form of action. Indeed, Dr.
Edward Conze, a scholar of Buddhism, frequently translated "mantra" as "spell".
As symbols, sounds are seen to effect what they symbolise. Vocal sounds are
frequently thought of as having magical powers, or even of representing the
words or speech of a deity. For the authors of the Hindu scriptures of the
Upanishads, the syllable Aum, itself constituting a mantra, represents Brahman,
the godhead, as well as the whole of creation. Merely pronouncing this syllable
is to experience the divine in a very direct way. Kukai suggests that all sounds
are the voice of the Dharmakaya Buddha -- i.e. as in Hindu Upanishadic and Yogic
thought, these sounds are manifestations of ultimate reality. We should not
think that this is peculiar to Eastern culture, however. Words do have a
mysterious power to affect us. Accepted scholarly etymology links the word with
"manas" meaning "mind" and 'trâna' for protection so that a mantra is something
which protects the mind -- however in practice we will see that mantra is
considered to do far more than simply protect the mind.
For many cultures it is the written letters that have power -- the Hebrew
Kabbalah for instance, or the Anglo-Saxon Runes. Letters can have an oracular
function even. But in India special conditions applied that meant that writing
was very definitely inferior to the spoken word. The Brahmins were the priestly
caste of the Aryan peoples. It was they that preserved the holy writings --
initially the Vedas, but later also the Upanishads. For years, they were the
only ones who knew the mantras or sacred formulas that had to be chanted at
every important occasion. However, with the advent of egalitarian Hindu schools
of Yoga, Vedanta, Tantra and Bhakti, it is now the case that intra-family and
community mantras are passed on freely as part of generally practiced Hindu
religion. Such was the influence of the more orthodox attitude of the elite
nature of mantra knowledge that even the Buddhists, who repudiated the whole
idea of caste, and of the efficacy of the old rituals, called themselves the
shravakas, that is, "the hearers". A wise person in India was one who had "heard
much". Mantras then are sound symbols. What they symbolise and how they function
depends on the context, and the mind of the person repeating them. Studies in
sound symbolism suggest that vocal sounds have meaning whether we are aware of
it or not. And indeed that there can be multiple layers of symbolism associated
with each sound. So even if we do not understand them, mantras are no simply
meaningless mumbo jumbo -- no vocal utterance is entirely without meaning. We
can look at mantra as a range of different contexts to see what they can mean in
those contexts: Om may mean something quite different to a Hindu and a Tibetan
Buddhist. The analysis of Kukai, a 9th century Japanese Buddhist is revealing.
See below.
While Hindu tantras eventually came to see the letters as well as the sounds
as representatives of the divine, it was when Buddhism travelled to China that a
major shift in emphasis towards writing came about. China lacked a unifying,
ecclesiastic language like Sanskrit, and achieved its cultural unity by having a
written language that was flexible in pronunciation but more precise in terms of
the concepts that each character represented. In fact the Indians had several
scripts which were all equally serviceable for writing Sanskrit. Hence the
Chinese prized written language much more highly than did the Indian Buddhist
missionaries, and the writing of mantras became a spiritual practice in its own
right. So that whereas Brahmins had been very strict on correct pronunciation,
the Chinese, and indeed other Far-Eastern Buddhists were less concerned with
this than correctly writing something down. The practice of writing mantras, and
copying texts as a spiritual practice, became very refined in Japan, and the
writing in the Siddham script in which the Sanskrit of many Buddhist Sutras were
written is only really seen in Japan nowadays. However, written
mantra-repetition in Hindu practices, with Sanskrit in any number of scripts, is
well-known to many sects in India as well.
Mantras were originally conceived in the great Hindu scriptures known as the
Vedas. Within practically all Hindu scriptures, the writing is formed in
painstakingly crafted two line "shlokas" and most mantras follow this pattern,
although mantras are often found in single line or even single word
combinations.
Mantra in Hinduism
AumThe most basic mantra is Aum, which in Hinduism is known as the "pranava
mantra," the source of all mantras. The philosophy behind this is the Hindu idea
of nama-rupa (name-form), which supposes that all things, ideas or entities in
existence, within the phenomenological cosmos, have name and form of some sort.
The most basic name and form is the primordial vibration of Aum, as it is the
first manifested nama-rupa of Brahman, the unmanifest reality/unreality.
Essentially, before existence and beyond existence is only One reality, Brahman,
and the first manifestation of Brahman in existence is Aum. For this reason, Aum
is considered to be the most fundamental and powerful mantra, and thus is
prefixed and suffixed to all Hindu prayers. While some mantras may invoke
individual Gods or principles, the most fundamental mantras, like 'Aum,' the 'Shanti
Mantra,' the 'Gayatri Mantra' and others all ultimately focus on the One
reality.
In the Hindu tantras the universe is sound. The supreme (para) brings forth
existence through the Word (Shabda). Creation consists of vibrations at various
frequencies and amplitudes giving rise to the phenomena of the world. The purest
vibrations are the var.na, the imperishable letters which are revealed to us,
imperfectly as the audible sounds and visible forms.
Var.nas are the atoms of sound. A complex symbolic association was built up
between letters and the elements, gods, signs of the zodiac, parts of the body
-- letters became rich in these associations. For example in the
Aitrareya-aranya-Upanishad we find:
"The mute consonants represent the earth, the sibilants the
sky, the vowels heaven. The mute consonants represent fire, the sibilants air,
the vowels the sun? The mute consonants represent the eye, the sibilants the
ear, the vowels the mind"
In effect each letter became a mantra and the language of the Vedas,
Sanskrit, corresponds profoundly to the nature of things. Thus the Vedas come to
represent reality itself. The seed syllable Om represents the underlying unity
of reality, which is Brahman.
Mantra Japa
Mantra Japa was a concept of the Vedic sages that incorporates mantras as one
of the main forms of puja, or worship, whose ultimate end is seen as moksha/liberation.
Essentially, Mantra Japa means repetition of mantra, and has become an
established practice of all Hindu streams, from the various Yoga to Tantra. It
involves repetition of a mantra over and over again, usually in cycles of
auspicious numbers (in multiples of three), the most popular being 108. For this
reason, Hindu malas (bead necklaces) developed, containing 108 beads and a head
"meru" bead. The devotee performing japa using his/her fingers counts each bead
as he/she repeats the chosen mantra. Having reached 108 repetitions, if he/she
wishes to continue another cycle of mantras, the devotee must turn the mala
around without crossing the "meru" bead and repeat.
It is said that through japa the devotee attains one-pointedness, or extreme
focus, on the chosen deity or principle idea of the mantra. The vibrations and
sounds of the mantra are considered extremely important, and thus reverberations
of the sound are supposed to awaken the prana or spiritual life force and even
stimulate chakras according to many Hindu schools of thought.
Any shloka from holy Hindu texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita,
Yoga Sutra, even the Mahabharata , Ramayana, Durga saptashati or Chandi are
considered powerful enough to be repeated to great effect, and have therefore
the status of a mantra.
A very common mantra is formed by taking a deity's name. Called Nama japa and
saluting it in such a manner: "Aum namah ------" or "Aum Jai (Hail!) ------" or
several such permutations. Common examples are "Aum namah Shivaya" (Aum I bow to
Lord Shiva), "Aum Namo Narayanaya"; or "Aum Namo Bhagavate Vasudevãya,"
(Salutations to the Universal God Vishnu), "Aum Shri Ganeshaya Namah" (Aum to
Shri Ganesha) and "Aum Kalikayai Namah" and "Aum Hrim Chandikãyai Namah." (i.e.,
mantras to Devi.)
The Hindu Bija Mantra
In Hinduism the concept of mantra as mystical sounds was carried to its
logical conclusion in "seed" (Sanskrit bija) mantras that have no precise
meaning on their surface but instead are thought to carry within their sounds
connections to various spiritual principles and currents. For example, worship
of the Mother Goddess Kali, in mantra form, is famously reduced to the powerful
Bija mantras of the Shakta tradition of Hinduism: Aum Krim Krim Krim Hoom Hum:
Krim Krim Krim Hum Hum Hrim Hrim Swaha Of course, the most revered of all Bija
mantras is Om/Aum. The Bija mantra is part of the Hindu monistic understanding
that while reality manifests itself as many/multiple, it is ultimately one.
Mantras
Mantra is a religious or mystical syllable or poem, typically from the
Sanskrit language. Mantras are primarily used as spiritual conduits, words or
vibrations that inculcate concentration in the devotee. Mantras are also
integrated in religious rituals to remove obstacles, avoid danger, reduce
foes, or accumulate wealth. Mantras got their origin from the Vedas of India.
Mantra - The Word
The word "Mantra" has been derived from Sanskrit. Mantra contains two words -
"man" which means "to think" (also in manas "mind") and suffix "tra" which
means "tool", hence a literal translation would be "instrument of thought". A
mantra is a powerful word or phrase that may or may not have meaning in the
same way as a sentence.
What is Mantra?
Mantras are single or strung together syllables. It is important to pronounce
the mantra properly with an understanding of its meaning. Improper
pronunciation of Mantra can inflict losses. So, one should be careful while
chanting mantra.
Mantras are energy-based sounds. The Indian metaphysical tradition explains
that the body is composed of the combination of five elements and the first of
them is sound. Studies in sound symbolism suggest that vocal sounds have
meaning whether we are aware of it or not. And certainly there can be multiple
layers of symbolism associated with each sound. So even, if we do not
understand them, mantras are not meaningless; no vocal utterance is entirely
without meaning.
One's subconscious mind can find its solution through meditation and
recitation of mantras. A mantra, when repeated constantly during meditation,
first loudly and then through silent and mental chanting, changes the
consciousness.
The Basic Mantra - Aum
In Hindu Mythology, the most basic mantra is Aum, which is known as the "pranava
mantra", the source of all mantras. Aum is regarded to be the most fundamental
and powerful mantra. Aum represents the first manifestation of Brahman, the
Supreme reality. Thus, Aum is prefixed and suffixed to all Hindu prayers.
Verses (Sloka) from holy Hindu texts like the Vedas, Upanishads,
Bhagavad-Gita, Mahabharata , Ramayana, Durga Saptashati or Chandi are
considered powerful enough to be repeated to great effect, and therefore have
attained the status of a mantra. As per the Vedic practices, most ancient
techniques and classical Hinduism, mantra is symbolized as a requisite for
spiritual advancement and high attainment.
Mantra Power
Mantras are powerful sounds and when chanted with devotion produce enormous
effects. Mantras are well-off in their meanings and their meaning can be
meditated while chanting. As the mind concentrates more and more on mantra and
its meaning, it conditions the mind and takes up to the higher states and
forms the path to salvation - the eternal bliss. Read on to know about the
significance of mantra…
The Vedas are full of mantras, therefore have been kept for ages in their raw
form to use in the different practices like patha, karma, jata, gana, patas.
It has been done to ensure that the chanter clearly interprets the correct
letters and sound for each letter (svara). People are advised to chant the
mantras only when they know the correct pronunciation of it. That is how
mantras are kept against deterioration with time.
Mantras Are Energy-Based Sounds
Sound is the foremost content of the creation. Mantras are divine sounds.
Saying any word produces an actual physical vibration. Over time, if we know
what the effect of that vibration is, then the word may come to have meaning
associated with the effect of saying that vibration or word. Mantras appear
really powerful when this sound effect reaches the mind and the surroundings.
Mantras Create Thought-Energy Waves
Mantra, when chanted sincerely produces a state where the organism vibrates at
the rate completely in tune with the energy and spiritual state, represented
by and contained within the mantra.
Mantra Have Fire-Like Energy
Mantras have fire like energy which can bring a positive and beneficial
result, or it can produce an energy meltdown when misused or practiced without
some guidance. There are certain mantra formulas which are so exact, so
specific and so powerful that they must be learned and practiced under careful
supervision by a qualified guru.
Mantras Eventually Quiet the Mind
At a deep level, subconscious mind is a collective consciousness of all the
forms of primitive consciousnesses which exist throughout the physical and
subtle bodies. Sincere use of mantra can excavate into subconscious
crystallized thoughts stored in the organs and glands and transform these
bodily parts into repositories of peace.
A mantra is a powerful word or phrase that may or may not have meaning in the
same way as a sentence. Mantras can only be experienced, there is no proper
term to define them and phrase them. That is why; they get passed from
generation to generation.
Mantra Chanting
Chanting of mantra was a concept of the Vedic saints that includes mantras as
one of the main forms of worship, whose end is seen as salvation. Basically,
Mantra Jaap means repeating the mantra. Reciting Mantra has become an
established feature of the Hindu practices. Mantra Japa involves repetition of
mantra again and again, usually 108 times completes one cycle. Due to this,
the rosary (mala) used for mantra jaap has 108 beads in it.
It is believed that through mantra jaap, the devotee attains concentration and
focus on the chosen deity or the main idea of the mantra. One can attain peace
of mind quickly by chanting mantra. With prolong and constant practice, the
inherent power of the Mantra (Mantra-Shakti) will be awakened, which will fill
your very existence with the Divinity of the Mantra.
Practical Aids to Japa
-
Select any Mantra and repeat it from 108 to 1,080 times daily (one to ten
malas).
-
Take a bath or wash your hands, feet, face and mouth before sitting for
Japa in the morning.
-
Sit facing east or north during the practice. This enhances the
effectiveness of the Jaap.
-
Sit on a rug to conserve body-electricity. Sit in a separate meditation
room or in any suitable place, such as a temple, on a river bank or under a
banyan or peepul tree.
-
Maintain a steady pose. You can sit in Padmasana, Siddhasana or Sukhasana.
Resolve to complete a certain minimum number of malas before leaving your
seat.
-
Use a rosary of 108 beads. Do not allow the rosary to hang below the
navel. The rosary (mala) must not be visible to you or to others, so cover it
properly. Use the middle finger and the thumb of the right to roll the beads.
The use of the index finger is not allowed. Do not cross the meru (main bead)
while rolling the beads.
-
Do mental Jaap for sometime without a rosary or mala. When the mind
wanders, do the Japa aloud, or whisper the Mantra for some time and come back
to mental Japa again as soon as possible.
-
Do not chant mantra in haste. Do it slowly with feeling, concentration of
mind and devotion.
-
Try to associate the chant with the rhythm of the breath and meditate in
the form of your Deity. Keep a picture or idol of the Deity in front of you.
Think of the meaning of the Mantra while repeating it.
-
Observe silence and avoid distractions, calls and engagements. It is
important not to leave the place at once after the Japa is over and mix with
everyone or get into worldly activity. This keeps the spiritual vibrations
intact.
One can leave the place after a dedicated prostration, with a feeling that
everything belongs to that almighty. The Puja, Sadhana, Meditation and Jaap
etc, any kind of prayers offered to the Almighty must be done with a sincere
heart. The Supreme Being answers all the questions and doubts of the devotee,
sooner or later. One must understand that the ultimate purpose of life is the
realization of divine.
Brahma Mantra
Lord Brahma is the originator and the generator of the mankind. Brahma
represents the universal mind, as creation is the work of the mind and the
intellect. Lord Brahma is considered as the "Brahm", the Supreme God.
Students, teachers and scholars worship the creator to seek the blessings of
God in acquiring knowledge. People meditate upon Lord Brahma to attain peace
of mind. Brahma Mantra forms the part of meditation on the lord. Mantra of
Hindu God Brahma is as follows:
"Om Namo Rajo Jushei Sristau
Sthithou Sattwa Mayayacha
Tamo Mayaya Sam-Harinei
Vishwarupaya Vedhasei
Om Brahmanyei Namaha"
Meaning: Brahma is the creator of the universe. He created the universe
with his three nature qualities, positive, negative and dormant. Brahma
represents Om, the eternal bliss. Brahma is the supreme god, who brought all
things to form. I bow to that divine god Brahma.
Dhanwantari Mantra
Lord Dhanwantari is regarded as the god of ayurvedic medicine (Ayurveda) in
the Hindu religion. People pray to Dhanvantari, asking him for improved or
good health for themselves and for others. Dhanvantri Mantra forms the part of
prayers offered to the lord. Mantra of Dhanwantari with its meaning is as
follows:
"Om Namo Bhagavate
Maha Sudharshana
Vasudevaya Dhanvantaraye;
Amrutha Kalasa Hasthaaya
Sarva Bhaya Vinasaya
Sarva Roka Nivaranaya
Thri Lokya Pathaye
Thri Lokya Nithaye
Sri Maha Vishnu Swarupa
Sri Dhanvantri Swarupa
Sri Sri Sri
Aoushata Chakra Narayana Swaha"
Meaning: We pray to the God, who is known as Sudarshana Vasudev
Dhanvantari. He holds the Kalasha full of nectar of immortality. Lord
Dhanvantri removes all fears and removes all diseases. He is the well wisher
and the preserver of the three worlds. Dhanvantari is like Lord Vishnu,
empowered to heal the Jiva souls. We bow to the Lord of Ayurveda.
Durga Mantra
Durga (Shakti / Devi) is one of the most popular goddesses among the Hindu
people. Devi represents strength, morality, power and protection. Goddess
Durga is the divine mother, who protects people from evil forces of
selfishness, jealousy, hatred, anger and ego. Durga Devi Mantras form the part
of prayers offered to the goddess. Mantras for Maa Durga are as follows:
Na Mantram No Yantram Tadapi Cha Na Jane Stutimaho Na Chavhanam Dhyanam
Tadapi Cha Na Jane Stutikathah I
Na Jane Mudraste Tadapi Cha Na Jane Vilapanam Param Jane
Matastvadanusaranam Kleshaharanam II
Meaning: O Maa Durga! I don't know any prayer or any magical summons to
invoke you. Neither I know any mantra and have no idea how to meditate on you.
I don't know your story or glory as well. I neither know your various postures
nor am I given to crying in distress. The only thing I know is that seeking
shelter under your protection and following your command will definitely end
all sufferings.
Vidheragyanen Dravinavirhenalasataya Vidheyashakyatvattva Charanyorya
Chyutirbhut I
Tadetat Kshantavyam Janani Sakaloddharini Shive Kuputro Jayet Kwachidapi
Kumata Na Bhavti II
Meaning: O Durga, assure salvation to all troubled, I don't know how to
worship you. I don't have resources or temperament since I am nasty by nature.
I don't have special knowledge to conduct your worship as well. In rendering
service to you if, I have made any mistakes or errors, forgive me Mother
because there could be a bad son but never a bad mother.
Prithivyam Putraste Janani Vahavaha Santi Saralah Param Tesham Madhye
Viralataraloaham Tava Sutah I
Madi Yoayam Tyagah Samuchitamidam No Taya Shive Kuputro Kwachidapi Kumata
Na Bhavati II
Meaning: O Maa Durga, this earth has many of your naïve sons, but I am
the most fickle among them. There would be hardly any one like me. Yet, O
Shive! Rejecting me like this is not proper in this world, as there could be a
bad son but never a bad mother.
Jaganmatarmatastava Charanseva Na Rachita Na Va Duttam Devi Dravinamapi
Bhooyastava Maya I
Tathapi Tvam Sneham Mayi Nirupam Yatprakurushe Kuputro Jayet Kwachidapi
Kumata Na Bhavati II
Meaning: O Mother of the World! I have never rendered any service to
you. I never offered money to you. Yet, you bless me always for the reason
that in this world there could be a bad son but never a bad mother.
Parittyakta Deva Vividhavidhisewa Kulataya Maya Panchasheeteradhikamapneete
Tu Vayasi I
Idani Chenmatastava Yadi Kripa Napi Bhavata Niralambo Lambodar Janani Kam
Yami Sharanam II
Meaning: O Parvati, mother of Lord Ganesha, I had been busy restlessly.
But now, I have stopped worshipping other gods as I cannot worship them
ritually. Therefore, I don't even expect any help from them. In such a
condition I am absolutely helpless. From whom I seek shelter? I have no hope
from any other god except you.
Shwapako Jalpako Bhavti Madhupako Magira Niratanko Ranko Viharati Chiram
Kotikanakaih I
Tavaparne Karne Vishati Manvarne Phalamidam Janah Ko Janeete Janani
Japaneeyam Japvidhhau II
Meaning: O Maa Aparna! One word of your holy prayer that falls in the
ear of a foolish rascal is sufficient to make him utter sweet speech like an
experienced scholar. With your blessing, a pauper then becomes rich owning
millions of gold coins and enjoying life with all its joys till ripe old age.
When listening to one word can work such wonders, who can presume the reward
obtained by those, who continuously chant your name with full custom of
worship.
Chitabhasmalepo Garalamashanam Dikpatdharo Jatadhari Kanthe Bhujagapati
Hari Paushupatih I
Kapali Bhootesho Bhajati Jagdeeshai Ka Padavin Bhavani Tvatpanigrahan
Paripati Phal Midam II
Meaning: O Durga Bhavani! The one, who keeps his body smeared with the
ashes of the dead-bodies; who takes poison for food, who remains naked; who
has matted hair on head and the serpent king Vasuki surrounding his neck; who
has a cupal like container in his hands. If such a Bhootnath, Lord Shiva (Pashupati-Lord
of Animals) is crowned with a title of Jagdeesh, then what is the reason
behind it? How did he gain such importance? The clear evidence is your
marriage with him.
Na Mokshasyakancha Bhavavibhavavancha Cha Na Mey Na Vigyanapeksha
Shashimukh Sukheccha Na Punah I
Atastvan Sanyache Janani Jananam Yatu Mum Vai Mridani Rudrani Shiv-Shiv
Bhavaneeti Japatah II
Meaning: O Maa Durga, with face of moon's elegance, I don't crave for
Salvation or for material possessions. I don't even hope to get any expertise
in sciences. I don't long for pleasure as well. My only request to you is to
permit me to pass my entire life chanting "Mridani Rudrani Shiva-Shiva Bhavani".
Naradhitasi Vidhina Vividhopachareh Kim Rukshachintak Pareirna Kritam
Vachobhib I
Shayme Tvameva Yadi Kinchan Maiyyanathe Dhatse Kripamuchitalam Param
Tavaiva II
Meaning: O Maa Shyama! I never worshipped you with complete rituals or
lots of offerings. I was always occupied in harsh words, which crime did my
speech not commit? Yet, if you care for this shelter less orphan on your own,
this is eligible only for you. Only a kind hearted mother like you can give
refuge to such a bad son, as I am.
Aapatsu Magnah Smaranam Tvadeeyam Karomi Durge Karunarna Veshi I
Naitaccha Thatvam Mum Methah Kshudhartrisharta Jananim Smaranti II
Meaning: O Compassionate Goddess Durga! If I remember you after falling
in trouble and not before, please do not treat me like a dishonest rogue for
the reason that all children yell for mother when they are troubled.
Jagdamb Vichitramatra Kim Paripoorna Karunaasti Chenmayi I
Aparadha Parampara Param Na Hi Mata Samupekshate Sutam II
Meaning: O Mother of the World! If you still show your kindness towards
me should not cause any surprise for the reason, if a son has bent on
committing sin after sin, still his mother does not abandon him.
Matsamah Palaki Nasti Papaghni Twatsama Na Hi I
Evam Gyatva Mahadevi Yatha Yogyam Tatha Kuru II
Meaning: O Maa Durga! I am the greatest sinner and you are the greatest
sin-destroyer. Considering this fact in mind, kindly do whatever you think
proper.
Ganesh Mantra
Lord Ganesha is the lord of beginnings, as per the Hindu mythology. Shri
Ganesh is the remover of obstacles. Hindu God Ganesha represents wisdom,
intellect and knowledge. God Ganesha is the most worshipped God of the Hindu
religion. People worship Ganesha before starting any work to ensure
hassle-free work. Apart from this, Ganesha is also adored by people, to bless
them with right direction and stability of mind. Lord Ganesha Mantra forms the
part of prayers offered to the lord. Ganesh Mantra is as follows:
"Om Parvati Putaaye, Hara Hara Hara Mahadev
Gajaananam Bhoota Ganaadhi Sevitam
Kapitta Jamboophaala Saara Bhakshitam
Umaasutam Shoka Vinaasha Kaaranam
Namaami Vighneswara Paada Pankajam"
Meaning: Lord Ganesha is the Supreme Being with an elephant head.
Ganesha is always attended by the group of his followers (Ganas). He loves to
eat wood-apple and rose-apple fruits (Kapitta, Jamboophala). Ganpati is the
son of Goddess Uma (Parvati). Ganesha is the destroyer of all misery and pain.
We salute to the lotus feet God.
Hanuman Mantra
Lord Hanuman is considered to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Shri Hanuman is
the epitome of sincere devotion and dedication, being a great disciple of Lord
Rama. Sri Hanuman is a celibate god, who represents strength, divinity,
courage and devotion. Hanuman is worshipped by people to attain knowledge,
wisdom, strength and valor. Lord Hanuman Mantra becomes part of prayers
offered to the lord. Shri Hanuman Mantra or Mantra of God Hanuman is as
follows:
"Maarutatulyavegam Jitendriyam
Buddhimataam Varistham,
Vaataatmajam Vaanarayoothmukhyam
Sriramdootam Saranam Prapadhye"
Meaning: Lord Hanuman is the messenger of Lord Rama. His pace is as
rapid as the wind and as quick as the mind. Hanuman has constrained his sense
organs. He is the most intelligent among the intelligent ones. Hanuman is the
son of Vayu (Pawan) and the chief of the monkey tribe. We surrender ourselves
to Lord Hanuman.
Chanting of this mantra with a sincere heart provides courage and wisdom.
Hare Krishna Mantra
Hare Krishna Mantra is considered as the mahamantra (Ultimate prayer) of
Kaliyuga (The Dark Age). Kaliyuga refers to the present era of machine, where
truth and morality are at their lowest level. It is believed that by repeating
this mantra with faith and devotion, one can achieve salvation and peace of
mind. Hare Rama Hare Krishna Mantra is as follows:
"Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare"
Meaning: Krishna takes away all grief, troubles and weaknesses. May god
bless us with all the happiness.
Both, Lord Rama and Lord Krishna are the incarnations of Lord Vishnu, the
preserver. Vishnu is the supreme reality and both of his incarnations are
ultimate. They have attained the de-facto status. Chanting of these names, in
itself, is considered auspicious. These names of God and the Hare Krishna
Mantra are derived from ancient Indian texts of knowledge called Vedas.
Kali Mantra
Maha Kali is the fiercest form of Shakti or Durga, in the Hindu religion.
Goddess Kali is the destroyer of evil. But Kali is also a compassionate mother
who loves her sincere children. Kali is usually worshipped by tantriks to
achieve "siddhis". Kali is the slayer of ego as well. Maha Kali Mantra forms
part of the prayers offered to the goddess. Goddess Kali Mantra or Mantras for
Maa Kali are given below:
"Atha Kalimantraye Sadyovaksiddhiprapyivan
Aravitairyah Sarvestam Prapnuvanti Jana Bhuvih"
"Savaruhaammahabhimaghoradanshtram Hasanmukhim
Chaturbhujamkhadagmundavarabhayakaram Shivam
Mundamaladharamdevi Lolajihvandigambaram
Evam Sanchintayetkalim Shamasanalayavsinim"
"Kreem Kreem Kreem Hreem Hreem Hoom Hoom Dakshine Kalike
Kreem Kreem Kreem Hreem Hreem Hoom Hoom Swaha"
Krishna Mantra
Lord Krishna is one of the most popular and worshipped deities of the Hindu
religion. Krishna represents strength, beauty, knowledge and opulence. Shri
Krishna is the very embodiment of love and divine ecstasy that destroys all
pain and offense. Shri Krishna Mantra forms the part of prayers offered to the
lord. Lord Krishna Mantra / Mantras for Krishna are given below:
Yam Brahmavarunainder Rudermaruka Satuanvanti Divyaa Satvaavedaai Sans Pad
Karmopanishadaaegarayanati Yam Samga I
Dhyanavasthittagatain Mansa Pashayanti Yam Yogino Yasyanatam Na Vidu
Surasurgana Devai Tasmai Nama II
Meaning: Lord Krishna is the one, whom the creator Brahma, Varuna,
Indra, Rudra and Maruts admire with divine hymns. Krishna is praised by the
singers of Sama all through the Vedas and Upanishads. Krishna is observed by
the ascetics (Yogis) with their minds engrossed in the divine through
perfection in meditation. The limit of Krishna is not even recognized by the
Gods (Devas) and Demons (Asuras). We bow to the divine Lord Krishna.
Tavamaksharam Paramam Vaideetvayam Tavamasya Vishwasaya Param
Nidhanam I
Tavamvayaya Shashvat Dharam Gopta, Sanatan Satayam Paursho Mato Mai II
Meaning: Krishna's art is immortal and this is just one thing to be
known. Lord Krishna is great and his art is the supreme refuge of this
universe. The art of the Supreme is the eternal protector of the morality and
dharma. We bow to the art of Lord Krishna, the Ancient Purusha.
Kuber Mantra
Kuber is regarded as the god of wealth, in Hindu mythology. Lord Kubera is
also known as the god of yakshas (savage beings). Kubera is always remembered
with the goddess of fortune, Lakshmi. Chanting of Kuber Mantra blesses the
worshipper with money and prosperity by drawing new avenues and sources of
income and wealth. Mantra of Kubera helps to increase the flow of funds and
the ability to accumulate wealth. Kubera Mantra is as follows:
"Om Yakshyaya Kuberaya Vaishravanaaya Dhanadhanyadi Padayeh
Dhana-Dhanya Samreeddhing Me Dehi Dapaya Swaha"
Meaning: Kubera, the lord of yakshas, bless us with wealth and
prosperity.
One, who worships lord Kubera and Lakshmi, can never fall short of money and
material comforts. The special puja of Kubera is performed on Dusshera, Dhan
triyodasi and Deepawali, asking for prosperity and his blessings.
Lakshmi Mantra
Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth, luxury, beauty, power, generosity and
auspiciousness. Maha Lakshmi is claimed to fulfill the promises of material,
wealth and contentment. Goddess Lakshmi represents fortune, purity, courage
and fertility. Maha Lakshmi Mantra forms the part of prayers offered to the
lord. Lakshmi Mantra / Mantras of Goddess Lakshmi are as follows:
"Sarvagyay Sarvavarday Sarvadushtbhaydkree
Sarvadukhaharay Devi Mahalakshmi Namostutay"
Meaning: O Maa Lakshmi, you know everything, you grant favors to all,
you are a terror to the evil and your art removes the misery of all. O
propitious goddess, I surrender to you.
"Siddhi Buddhipraday Devi Bhuktimuktipradayeenee
Mantramurtay Sada Devi Mahalakshmi Namostutay"
Meaning: O divine goddess, you are the provider of success and
intelligence. You are the benefactor of both worldly pleasure and freedom. The
magical sound symbols-the Mantras, verily comprise their form with your grace.
Propitious Mother, I surrender to you always.
"Aadhantarhitay Devi Aadhshakti Maheshwari
Yogajay Yogasambhutay Mahalakshmi Namostutay"
Meaning: O Ultimate Mother, your art is without beginning and end. Your
art is the primal power. Your art comes out of Yogic practice and your art is
evident through Yoga. Promising Mother, I surrender to you.
"Sthulsukshmay Maharodray Mahashakti Mahodray
Mahapaapharay Devi Mahalakshmi Namostutay"
Meaning: Goddess Lakshmi, your art in gross and subtle, is the most
awful and powerful. Mother, you contain all things and you remove even the
greatest sins. Auspicious Mother, I surrender to you.
"Padnaasanstithay Devi Parbrahmaswaroopeenee
Parmashree Jaganmatra Mahalakshmi Namostutay"
Meaning: Maa Lakshmi, you reside in the hearts of devotees and
prove the art of the Supreme Brahman. You are mother of the universe with your
supreme art. O Great Mother, I bow to you.
Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra
Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is a great mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is called
Maha Mritunjaya Mantra because it is a great death-conquering mantra.
Sometimes it is also known as Mrita-Sanjivani Mantra. The Maha Mrityunjaya
mantra is hailed by the sages as the heart of the Veda. This mantra holds the
highest place along with the Gayatri Mantra among the many mantras used for
contemplation and meditation.
It is believed that to overcome the fear of death, Lord Shiva himself gave
humanity the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra. This mantra restores health, happiness
and brings calmness in the period of death. When courage is blocked, it rises
up to overcome obstacles. The Maha Mritunjaya Mantra is as follows:
"Aum Trayambakam Yajaamahey
Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam
Urvaarukamiva Bandhanaath
Mrutyor Muksheeya Maamritaat"
Meaning: Lord Shiva is the three eyed god. Shiva is always
perfumed. He fosters all the creatures of the Universe. Lord Shiva releases
from death for the sake of immortality, as cucumber detaches its bondage of
the vine. We worship Lord Shiva to liberate us from death.
This mantra is really powerful and even regarded as a life saving prayer
Ram Mantra
Lord Ram (Rama) is regarded as the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Rama is
the symbol of courtesy and virtue, a man of values and morals. Hindu God Ram
is also known as Maryada Purushottama, which means the perfect man. Sri Ram is
an example of idealism; he has been the ideal man, the ideal son, the ideal
brother and the ideal husband. The God took birth on this earth with the aim
to eradicate the wicked forces of the age. Ram Naam (Name of Ram) in itself is
a divine mantra or prayer. It is believed that chanting the name "Ram" helps
one to attain salvation. Mantra of Shri Ram forms the part of prayers offered
to the lord. Lord Rama Mantra / Ram Mantra is as follows:
"Shri Ram, Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram"
Ram is the source of each and every thing. The name "Ram" suggests
divinity and brings joy to life. The name "Ram" helps to achieve mukti from
this material world.
Saraswati Mantra
Saraswati is the goddess of arts, music, knowledge, and wisdom in the Hindu
religion. Goddess Sarasvati is said to possess the powers of speech, wisdom
and learning. Sarsvati is regarded as the dispeller of chaos and confusion.
Saraswati Mantra is an important mantra of the Hindus that is recited for
higher knowledge and wisdom. In India, people pray to her for guidance and
knowledge. Maa Sarasvati Mantra is as follows:
"Yaa Kundendu Tushaara Haaradhavalaa, Yaa Shubhravastraavritha
Yaa Veenavara Dandamanditakara, Yaa Shwetha Padmaasana
Yaa Brahmaachyutha Shankara Prabhritibhir Devaisadaa Vanditha
Saa Maam Paatu Saraswati Bhagavatee Nihshesha Jaadyaapaha"
Meaning: Goddess Saraswati is fair and beautiful like the
jasmine-colored moon. Her white garland resembles the icy dew drops. She is
decked in pure white attire. A white lotus serves as the throne of Maa
Saraswati, on whose arm rests Veena. We pray Maha Saraswati, who is
surrounded and respected by the Gods to bestow her blessings on us. May the
goddess remove our lethargy and brighten our life with light of knowledge.
Shanti Mantras
The Shanti Mantras are prayers for peace, in the Hindu Mythology. Shanti
Mantras are also known as "Peace Mantras". Shanti Mantras form the part of
Upanishads. These mantras are believed to cool the mind of reciter and the
surroundings. Reciting these mantras at the beginning of any task is
considered to remove its obstacles.
Shanti Mantras always end with three words of "Shanti" which suggests
"Peace". The reason behind speaking three times "Shanti" is to cool the
surroundings and remove obstacles in three realms namely; "Physical" or
Adhi-Bhautika, "Devine" or Adhi-Daivika and "Internal" or Adhyaatmika. These
are called "Tapa-Traya" or three classes of troubles. When Shanti Mantras
are recited, obstacles from these realms are believed to be pacified.
Various Shanti Mantras from different Upanishads are as follows:
From Brihadaranyaka Upanishad and Ishavasya Upanishad:
"Om Poornamadah Poornamidam Poornat Poornamudachyate,
Poornasya Poornamaadaya Poornamevavashishyate,
Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih"
Meaning: The literal meaning of this mantra is: "That is Absolute,
This is Absolute, Absolute arises out of Absolute, If Absolute is taken away
from Absolute, Absolute remains OM Peace, Peace, Peace".
"Om Asato Maa Sadgamaya,
Tamaso Maa Jyotir Gamaya,
Mrityor Maa Amritam Gamaya,
Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih"
Meaning: The accurate sense of this mantra is: "OM lead me from
unreal to real, lead me from darkness to light, lead me from death to
immortality OM Peace, Peace, Peace".
From Taittiriya Upanishad:
"Om Sham No Mitra Sham Varunah Sham No Bhavatvaryamaa,
Sham Na Indro Brihaspatih Sham No Vishnururukramah,
Namo Brahmane Namaste Vaayo Tvameva Pratyaksham,
Brahmaasi Tvaameva Pratyaksham Brahma Vadishyaami,
Rtam Vadishyaami Satyam Vadishyaami,
Tanmaamavatu Tadvaktaaramavatu Avatu Maam Avatu Vaktaaram,
Om Shantih Shantih Shantih"
Meaning: This Mantra implies: "OM. May Mitra do good to us, may
Varuna do good to us, may Aryama do good to us, may Indra do good to us, may
Brihaspati do good to us, and may Vishnu who has vast coverage do good to
us. We Salute Lord Brahma and Lord Vayu, the only visible Brahman. We say
right, we say truth, may it protect us and may it protect teacher. OM Peace,
Peace and Peace"
From Taittiriya Upanishad, Katha Upanishad and Shvetashvatara Upanishad:
"Om Sahanaa Vavatu Sahanau Bhunaktu
Saha Veeryam Karavaavahai
Tejasvi Naavadheetamastu Maa Vidvishaavahai
Om Shantih Shantih Shantih"
Meaning: The literal meaning of this mantra is: "OM. Let all of us
protect each other together, may all of us enjoy together, may all of us
work together and let our study become radiant. Let there be no hatred
between us, OM Peace, Peace, Peace"
From Kena Upanishad and Chandogya Upanishad:
"Om Aapyaayantu Mamaangaani Vaak
Praanashchakshuh Shrotramatho
Balamindriyaani Cha Sarvaani Sarvam Brahmopanishadam
Maaham Brahma Niraakuryaam Maa Maa Brahma Niraakarod
Niraakaranamastva Niraakaranam Me Astu
Tadaatmani Nirate Ya Upanishatsu Dharmaaste
Mayi Santu Te Mayi Santu
Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih"
Meaning: The Mantra implies: "OM. May our organs, speech, Prana, eyes
and ears be nourished. May all our senses become strong. Upanishad says all
that the World is Brahman. We don't reject Brahman, may Brahma not reject
me. Let there be no rejection, let there be no rejection at all in us, let
us concentrate on ourselves, all those ways of righteous living told in
Upanishads be in us! Be in us, OM Peace, Peace and Peace".
From Aitareya Upanishad:
"Om Vaang Me Manasi Pratishthitaa
Mano Me Vaachi Pratishthitam
Aaveeraaveerma Edhi Vedasya Ma Aanisthah
Shrutam Me Maa Prahaaseer Anenaadheetena
Ahoraatraan Samdadhaami Ritam Vadishyaami
Satyam Vadishyaami Tanmaamavatu Tadvaktaaramavatu
Avatu Maam Avatu Vaktaaram Avatu Vaktaaram
Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih"
Meaning: The accurate meaning of this mantra is: "OM. Let our speech
be established in our mind, and our mind be established in our speech. Let
Brahman reveal itself to us and may we understand the truths of the Vedas.
Let not what we have studied leave us. Let all of us spend both day and
night in study. We say right, we say truth and may it protect us. May truth
protect teacher. OM Peace, Peace, Peace".
From Mundaka Upanishad, Mandukya Upanishad and Prashna Upanishad:
"Om Bhadram Karnebhih Shrunuyaama Devaah
Bhadram Pashyemaakshabhiryajatraah
Sthirairangaistushtuvaamsastanoobhih
Vyashema Devahitam Yadaayuh
Swasti Na Indro Vridhashravaah
Swasti Nah Pooshaa Vishwavedaah
Swasti Nastaarkshyo Arishtanemih
Swasti No Brihaspatir Dadhaatu
Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih"
Meaning: The literal meaning of this mantra is: "OM. O Gods! Let us
hear promising things from our ears. O respectful Gods! Let us see
propitious things from our eyes, let our organs and body be stable, healthy
and strong. Let us do what is pleasing to gods in the life span allotted to
us. May Indra, inscribed in the scriptures do well to us, May Pushan who is
knower of world do good to us and May Trakshya who devastates enemies do
good to us! May Brihaspati do well to us! OM Peace, Peace, Peace".
Shiva Mantra
Lord Shiva or Siva is considered as the destroyer of the world. Shiv is one
of the most popular Gods of the Hindu religion. Shiva is one of the complex
gods who is rudra as well as kind-hearted, simultaneously. Mantra of Hindu
God Shiva forms the part of prayers offered to the lord. Shiv or Shiva
Mantras are as follows:
"Vande Deva Umaa Pathim Suragurum
Vande Jagat Kaaranam
Vande Pannaga Bhooshanam Mruga Dharam
Vande Pashoonam Pathim
Vande Soorya Shashanka Vahni Nayanam
Vande Mukunda Priyam
Vande Bhakta Jana Ashrayam Cha Varadam
Vande Shiva Shankaram"
Meaning: Lord Shiva is the consort of Uma (Parvati). Shiva is the
divine Guru, the source of the universe. Lord Shiva is decked with snake and
wears tiger skin. He is the Lord of all creatures. The three eyes of the
lord represent the Sun, Moon and Fire. Shiva is near to Lord Vishnu. Lord
Shiva protects all of his devotees. He is the benefactor of boons. We
surrender ourselves again and again to Lord Shiva.
"Mrutyunjayaaya Rudraaya
Neelakantaaya Shambhave
Amriteshaaya Sarvaaya
Mahadevaaya Te Namaha"
Meaning: Lord Mahadeva (Shiva) has conquered death. He is the
destructive force of the universe. He has a blue neck and he gives happiness
to all. We pray to the kind-hearted lord, Shiv-Shambhu.
"Gauri Vallabha Kaamaarey
Kaala Koota Vishaasana
Maam Uddhhare Padambhoje
Tripura Agnyata Kaantaka"
Meaning: Lord Kaamaarey (another name for Lord Shiva) protects
us from the evil. He is the consort of Gauri, the mother goddess. He drank
the "Kaala Koota" poison (which was the outcome of the ocean churning). He
is the destroyer of the three cities. We seek protection at the feet of Lord
Shiva.
Surya Namaskar Mantra
Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) is a form of worshiping God by meditating on
the Sun, the energy provider. Surya Namaskar is useful in achieving
concentration. Surya Namaskara is always performed in the open air, facing
the Sun, at sunrise. Surya Namaskar is not just a physical exercise. For
each of the postures, there is a particular breathing pattern to be
followed. With each posture, a particular mantra - name of the sun is
chanted. Surya Namaskar Mantras or Mantras for Surya Namaskara are given
below:
Om Mitraaya Namah
Om Ravaye Namah
Om Sooryaya Namah
Om Bhaanave Namah
Om Khagaaya Namah
Om Pooshne Namah
Om Hiranya Garbhaaya Namah
Om Mareechaye Namah
Om Aadityaaya Namah
Om Savitre Namah
Om Arkaaya Namah
Om Bhaaskaraya Namah
Om Sri Savitra Soorya Narayanaaya Namah
Vishnu Mantra
Lord Vishnu is considered as the preserver of the universe as per the Hindu
Mythology. It is believed that Vishnu is an eternal and universal spirit
associated with the primeval waters that pervaded before the creation of the
universe. Vishnu Mantra forms the part of prayers offered to the lord. Sri
Vishnu Mantra is as follows:
"Shaantaakaaram Bhujagashayanam Padmanaabham Suresham
Vishwaadhaaram Gaganasadrasham Meghavarnam Shubhaangam
Lakshmikaantam Kamalanayanam Yogibhirdhyaanagamyam
Vande Vishnum Bhavabhayaharam Sarvalokaikanaatham"
Meaning: Lord Vishnu is the preserver and protector of the
Universe. He is always quiet and rests on the great serpent bed. The lotus
of the creative power springs from the navel of Lord Vishnu. He is the
Ultimate Power, who supports the entire universe. The divine Lord Vishnu is
all-pervading as the sky and dark like the clouds. Vishnu, the lotus-eyed
one, is the Lord of Lakshmi. The ascetics (yogis) observe Lord Vishnu
through meditation. Lord Vishnu is the destroyer of the fear of Samsar. We
surrender to such great lord.
Durga Mantra
Goddess Durga is a form of Shakti and is believed to be the deity of
vengeance and victory. In Sanskrit Durga means as the one who is
indomitable and cannot be conquered. The origin of goddess Durga is
related to the terror of demon Mahishasura. It was to end this demon
that goddess Durga incarnated and received great weapons and powers
from all the gods. Many a times the goddess is hailed as the mother of
the Universe. Given below are few mantras dedicated to the goddess.
Ya Devi Sarva Bhutesu Maa rupena samsthitaa I
Ya Devi Sarva Bhutesu Shakti rupena samsthitaa I
Ya Devi Sarva Bhutesu Buddhi rupena samsthitaa I
Ya Devi Sarva Bhutesu Laxmi rupena samsthitaa I
Namestasyai II Namestasyai II Namestasyai II
II Namo Namah II
You are the divine goddess who is the mother of the universe looking
after her children. You reside in the form of Shakti which is the
ultimate power and energy. O mother you reside in the form of wisdom
and also in the form of wealth. We bow to you the greatest mother and
continuously do so.
Jagdamb Vichitramatra Kim Paripoorna Karunaasti Chenmayi I
Aparadha Parampara Param Na Hi Mata Samupekshate Sutam II
O mother of the world Jagdamba, you are the one who looks after her
children. Your love and kindness towards me is no surprise O mother
goddess. Being a mother you forget all our sins and correct us without
abandoning your children.
Sharanaagata dinaarta
Paritraana paraayane
Sarvasyaarti harey Devi
Naraayani namostute
Greetings to you O mother Durga, you are the one who brings all the
downtrodden under her shelter. You look after the interests of the
distressed by taking them in your refuge. Namaskar to you O Devi who
removes the afflictions of everyone.
Aapatsu Magnah Smaranam Tvadeeyam Karomi Durge Karunarna Veshi I
Naitaccha Thatvam Mum Methah Kshudhartrisharta Jananim Smaranti II
O kindhearted goddess Durga, please forgive me if I recall your name
after facing afflictions and not before it. Do not consider me a
deceitful rogue as all children call out to their mothers when they
are hurt and troubled.
Brahma Mantra
Constituting the trinity of Hindu gods is Lord Brahma, the creator of
the Universe. He is the generator of life on earth, a role which he
performed by creating eleven 'Prajapatis' for fathering human race. As
the lord commanding supreme knowledge, his four faces represent the 'gyan'
(knowledge) of the four Vedas which he continuously recites. The
creator lord is especially popular amongst intellectual people,
students, scholars, educationists for his extensive hold over
knowledge and intellect. Given below is the Sanskrit mantra dedicated
to lord Brahma with its meaning.
Om namo rajo jushei sristau
Sthithou sattwa mayayacha
Tamo mayaya sam-harinei
Vishwarupayavedhasei
Om brahmanyei namaha
Lord Brahma is 'Om' who created this Universe and to him we pay are
salutations. The creation of the cosmic world was achieved by him with
the help of three 'gunas' or qualities. The three qualities of nature
are the positive, negative and inert qualities. It is Brahma who
created all the forms present in this world and to this supreme god I
bow down.
Ganesha Mantra
Lord Ganesha is believed to be the remover of all impediments and
hence is called 'Vighneshwara' (remover of obstacles). The elephant
deity is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and is deeply
revered across India and beyond. The pot bellied god is believed to
govern wisdom, success and spiritual power. Before beginning any
auspicious task, Lord Ganesha is invoked by prayers. Given below are
the mantras dedicated to Ganpati with their meanings.
Vakrtund Mahakaya Surya Koti Samaprabha |
Nirbhignam Kurumedaya Sarva Karyashu Sarvada |
This particular mantra or sloka is chanted before beginning any
auspicious task. The Lord Ganpati as the remover of all impediments is
invoked by reciting this mantra. The Lord of mighty body and
possessing the curved trunk, who has the radiance of thousand suns, I
pray to you to remove all hurdles from the task I intend to perform.
Aum Tatpurushaye vidmahe
Vakratundaye dhimahi
tanno dantih prachodayat
We dedicate our attention to the supreme being, we meditate looking at
the curved tusk lord. We invoke you O lord to show us the right path.
Aum ekdantaya vidmahe
Vakratundaye dhimahi
tanno dantih prachodayat
O One tusked lord we pray to you. We meditate looking at him who has a
curved tusk. We invoke you O lord to lead us towards the right path.
Aum Sri Ganeshaye Namah
This simple chant of the name of Sri Ganesh is perhaps the easiest way
of invoking the god. This particular chant is especially taught to
children to increase their memory and remove all fears from their
young minds. The chant simply offers salutations to Sri Ganesha.
Gayatri Mantra
Gayatri Mantra is regarded as the foremost mantra in Hindu belief. It
is believed to be the mother of all mantras and is recited by millions
of people to gain spiritual solace and enlightenment. This popular
mantra is found in the Vedic texts and since ancient times is believed
to be a powerful chant which enables a person to gain wisdom and
follow a righteous path. The significance of the mantra lies in the
fact that this simple mantra is dedicated to both the Sun god as well
as goddess Gayatri (mother of the Vedas) who is closely associated
with goddess Saraswati. Mentioned below is the Gayatri mantra with its
meaning. The mantra is often referred to as the "Mantra of spiritual
light".
Aum bhoor bhuwah swaha,
Tat savitur varenyam
Bhargo devasaya dheemahi
Dhiyo yo naha prachodayat
The summary of the Gayatri Mantra is that may the lord guide us
towards the righteous path, enlightening us by removing our ignorance.
O Almighty Lord may we pray to you, who is the embodiment of spiritual
energy, remover of all suffering, who bequeaths all happiness to us,
who is the manifestation of knowledge and light. To you O lord, O
great spiritual light we pray to illuminate our minds with intellect
and wisdom by removing our sins and acts of ignorance.
Hanuman Mantra
Lord Hanuman or the monkey deity is one of the most revered god of
India. Lord Hanuman is venerated as the greatest disciple of Lord Sri
Ram. He is believed to be an avatar (incarnation) of Lord Shiva. He is
seen as the embodiment of devotion and loyalty and is one of the rare
Hindu god who has taken a vow of celibacy. Mentioned below is the Sri
Hanuman Mantra which is often chanted by the followers of Bajrangabali
to pay obeisance to the lord.
Manojavam Maarutatulyavegam
Jitendriyam buddhimataamVaristham,
Vaataatmajam Vaanarayoothmukhyam
Sriramdootam saranam Prapadhye.
I submit myself to you O lord Hanuman the envoy of Lord Sri Ram. You
are the son of wind and hence your speed and mind is as swift as the
wind. The lord has full control over his sensory organs. He is the
wisest among the wise men and heads the vanars (monkeys). You are the
greatest O dear lord Hanuman, the messenger of Sri Ram.
Kali Mantra
Goddess Kali is the ferocious avatar of Devi Shakti, born to remove
the terror of demons from earth. The name of goddess Kali is derived
from the Sanskrit root 'kal' meaning time. The goddess is believed to
be the slayer of all ego a human being possesses. She is hence the
goddess of death responsible for killing the ego of a man. The goddess
is revered across the country but her popularity is unmatched in the
state of West Bengal. Here the goddess is revered in each and every
household of a Bengali. The Mantra dedicated to goddess Kali is
believed to take one to a different spiritual plane and is specially
recited by Yogis during meditation.
Aum Eim Hreem Kleem Sheem Kaaleeshwari
Sarva Jana Mano haarini Sarva mukha Stambhini
Sarba raaj vash karee sarva dushta Nirdalani
Sarva Stree Purushaa Karshinee
vadhee Shrinkhalaa Strotaya Trotaya
Sarva Shatroon Bhanjaya
Bhanjaya Dvesheen Nirdalaya Sarvaan
Stambhaya Stambhaya Mohnaa Strena
Dveshina Muchaataya Uchaataya
Sarvam vasham karu karu svaaha
Dehi dehi sarvaa Kaal raatri Kaamini
Ganeshvaryei Namaha
Krishna Mantra
The incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Krishna was born to Devaki and
Vasudeva in Mathura and looked after by Nand and Yashoda in Vrindavan.
The mischievous lord is prayed to mostly in his baby and youth form
widely across India and beyond. A recitation of the mantras dedicated
to Sri Krishna is believed to be a great purifying act in the age of
Kalyuga where sinful acts gain importance. These mantras provide
spiritual solace and peace of mind which is unmatched. On top of it
knowing the meaning of these Sanskrit mantras is an added advantage.
Find out some of the mantras dedicated to Sri Krishna with their
meanings.
"Om Krishnaya Namah"
This small chant is often recited by believers in their daily course
of life. This chant means that accept my salutations O Sri Krishna.
"Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare"
This divine mantra is chanted by believers to take them on a higher
spiritual plane. One can often find Indians as well as non Indians
chanting this beautiful mantra which transports them into another
divine world, directly connecting their soul with Sri Krishna. A chant
of Sri Krishna's name takes away all the miseries and grief's from
one's life and mind. Sri Krishna and Lord Rama are both two bodies but
one being, as they are the incarnation of Sri Hari Vishnu. This mantra
is derived from the repository of knowledge - the Vedas. Both these
names are the ultimate truth and hence give immense peace of mind.
"Om Sri Krishnah sharanam mamah"
Krishna literally means the one who attracts all. To the beloved lord
Krishna I pray to take me under his shelter, I surrender to you O
lord.
Yam Brahmavarunainder Rudermarukaa Satuanvanti Divya Satvavedaai
Sans Pad Karmopanishadaaegarayanati Yam Samga I
Dhyanavasthittagatain Mansa Pashayanti Yam Yogino Yasyanatam Na Vidu
Surasurganaa Devaai Tasmai Namah II
The divine Sri Krishna is the lord who is pleased and admired with
singing hymns by Brahma, Indra, Varuna, Shiva and Ganesha. In the
Vedas and Upanishads the lord is praised in songs of Sama singers.
Lord Krishna is constantly governing the thoughts of ascetics (yogis)
in meditation. The divine Krishna is limitless and not even gods or
demons can define the limit of Sri Krishna. To such a supreme deity I
offer my salutations. Accept my regards O lord.
Kuber Mantra
Lord Kuber is believed to be the lord of riches and wealth in
Hinduism. Kuber Sadhana is considered a great way of pleasing the lord
to bestow one with wealth and fortune. Kuber is many a times called
the treasurer of gods. If pleased with you the lord opens avenues of
wealth and riches for believers. Lord Kuber is also believes to be the
head of the Yakshas (savage beings). The Yakshas are both human and
demon and are responsible for the security of the treasures hidden
beneath the earth of the great mountain Himalayas.
"Om yakshyaya kuberaya vaishravanaaya dhanadhanyadi pathayeh
Dhana-dhanya samruthime dehi tapaya swaha"
O great king of the Yakshas, the commander of all wealth and fortune,
we pray to you to grant us material wealth and prosperity. By this
prayer, O lord kindly hasten the move of granting boons to your
devotee.
Lakshmi Mantra
Goddess Lakshmi is the consort of Sri Hari Vishnu, and is known to be
the deity of wealth. The goddess grants her believers wealth,
prosperity and fortune but never promotes materialism. The powerful
goddess is one of the most popular household goddess and is prayed to
widely across the country and beyond. Reciting the mantras dedicated
to the goddess is a unique way of praying to mother Maha Lakshmi. Find
out the Sanskrit mantras with their meanings here.
"Om Sri Maha Lakshmyai Namah"
This simple mantra is often chanted by people in their day to day
course of work. The chant simply means salutations to O great goddess
Maha Lakshmi, the goddess of fortune and wealth.
"Sarvagyay Sarvavarday Sarvadushtbhaydkree
Sarvadukhaharay Devi Mahalakshmi Namostutay"
O divine Goddess Ma Lakshmi, nothing is hidden from you. You grant all
favors to your children removing all miseries from their lives and on
the other hand are fearsome for the evil. Accept my salutations O
auspicious goddess.
"Padnaasanstithay Devi Parbrahmaswaroopeene
Parmashree Jaganmatra Mahalakshmi Namostutay"
O mother Lakshmi you are like supreme Brahman and reside in the hearts
of all your devotees. O Devi you are the mother of the entire Universe
and to you I offer all my respects and salutations.
"Sthulsukshmay Maharodray Mahashakti Mahodray
Mahapapharay Devi Mahalakshmi Namostutay"
You know it all O mother goddess, nothing is hidden from you. O mother
you are the one who removes all the sins and grant boons. O propitious
goddess I bow to you, accept my salutations.
Ram Mantra
Lord Ram is believed to be the seventh incarnation of Sri Hari Vishnu.
Bhagwan Ram is believed to be the ideal man in human birth - Maryada
Purushottam. Lord Sri Rama is believed to have taken birth on earth in
the Treta Yug to wipe out evil forces like the demon king Ravana. Lord
Ram is perhaps the most popular among the pantheon of Hindu gods.
Shrines dedicated to the lord are found widely across India and
beyond. The biggest festival of the Hindus Diwali is associated with
the return of Lord Sri Ram to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile.
Given below is the simple Ram mantra which is the most popular way of
paying obeisance to the lord.
"Sri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram"
The word Ram is the essence of everything. A mere chant of Lord Ram is
so powerful that the body and soul of the chanter experiences divinity
and spiritual solace. Lord Ram is the foremost step to ultimately gain
salvation.
Saraswati Mantra
The consort of Lord Brahma, Ma Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge
and the arts. It is believed that she is the creative manifestation of
Lord Brahma who is the creator of the Universe. The goddess is also
known as Vakdevi or the goddess of speech. It is she who endows all
human beings with wisdom, arts, and intellect. The four armed goddess
plays the Veena with her two hands and in the other two hands holds
the lotus flower and the holy Vedas. It is she who is believed to be
the mother of the four Vedas. The goddess is particularly revered by
students, teachers, scholars and educationists. Given below is the
mantra dedicated to goddess Saraswati with its meaning.
Yaa Kundendu tushaara haaradhavala, Yaa shubhravastravritha I
Yaa veenavara dandamanditakara, Yaa shweta padmaasana II
Yaa brahmaachyutha shankara prabhritibhir Devaisadaa Vanditha I
Saa Maam Paatu Saraswatee Bhagavatee Nihshesha jaadyaapahaa II
The mantra is a plea to goddess Saraswati by her devotee. O fair and
beautiful faced like the jasmine color moon goddess, the one whose
neck is adorned by the pure white garland like the glacial dew drops;
who is dressed beautifully in pure white attire; in whose radiant arms
rests the Veena; who sits on the pure white lotus; and is enveloped by
all the gods, may this mother goddess protect me. Relieve me of all
ignorance and sluggishness O Ma Saraswati.
Shiva Mantra
Lord Shiva is hailed as the destroyer amongst the trinity of Hindu
gods. Known by many names like Rudra, Neelkantha, Shankar, Bholenath ,
the Lord is believed to be the one who is responsible for destruction
of the world to create a new world and once again begin the cycle of
creation and pro creation. Shiva is one of the unique gods who is both
a symbol for ascetics as well as householders. The mantras dedicated
to the lord are a way of praying to him. Given below are some of the
Shiva mantras with their meanings.
II Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra II
Om Tryambakam yajamahe
Sugandhim pushti-vardhanam
Urvarukamiva bandhanan
Mrityor mukshiya mamritat
This is a very powerful chant dedicated to Lord Shiva. This mantra is
believed to be the death conquering mantra and is found in the Rig
Veda. The mantra is sometimes also referred to as the Mrita-Sanjivini
mantra as it has the power to restore life in a dying person. In this
potent mantra the lord is referred to as the three eyed god. It is a
plea to him to restore life in the dying body. Worshipping the lord
will liberate one from death just like the ripe cucumber is separated
from the binding stalk.
II Shiva Mantra II
"Mrutyunjayaaya Rudraaya
Neelakantaya Shambhave
Amriteshaaya Sarvaaya
Mahadevaaya Te Namaha"
O Lord Shiva you are the one who has conquered death and are
responsible for destruction of the Universe to let life again prevail
on earth. O lord you are Neelkantha as you have a blue throat. We pay
obeisance to you O lord with are hands folded in namaskar.
Surya Mantra
Surya Dev is the personification of Sun. The following mantra is
dedicated to the sun god. Surya Namaskar Mantra is a unique mantra
recited while performing a yogic asana with the same name. With each
successive movement of the asana, the mantra is recited. Thus the
asana has thirteen postures which begin and end in a namaskar. The
mantra is all but salutations to the sun god. The mantra is a recital
of various names of Surya Devta. Surya Namaskara is usually performed
at sunrise but people perform the asana at any time of the day
whenever they are free.
Om Mitraaya Namah
Om Ravaye Namah
Om Sooryaya Namah
Om Bhaanave Namah
Om Khagaaya Namah
Om Pooshne Namah
Om Hiranya Garbhaaya Namah
Om Mareechaye Namah
Om Aadityaaya Namah
Om Savitre Namah
Om Arkaayae Namah
Om Bhaaskaraya Namah
Om Sri Savitra Soorya Narayanaaya Namah
Vishnu Mantra
The sustainer of the world Lord Sri Hari Vishnu constitutes the
trinity of Hindu gods. The chanting of Vishnu Mantra gives one immense
pleasure and spiritual solace. The following mantra dedicated to lord
Vishnu is a way of praying to the deity. It includes the summary of
the role the lord performs and his position in the cosmic settings.
Shaantaakaaram
Bhujagashayanam
Padmanaabham suresham
Vishwaadhaaram
Gaganasadrasham
Meghavarnam shubhaangam
Lakshmikaantam
Kamalanayanam
Yogibhirdhyaanagamyam
Vande vishnum
Bhavabhayaharam
Sarvalokaikanaatham
Lord Sri Hari Vishnu is the master of the Universe and looks ever so
peaceful while reclining on the great serpent Shesha. It is from the
navel of this great lord that Lord Brahma the creative force behind
this Universe emerged. He is the ultimate power the one who supports
the entire universe. The lord is as limitless as the vast sky and has
the color of the dark clouds. He is the Lord of the beautiful goddess
Lakshmi; the lotus eyed one. The great yogis remember him during
meditation to attain spiritual solace. It is Sri Hari Vishnu who
removes the fear from our minds about samsar or the world we live in.
Such is our great Prabhu Vishnu to whom we pray.
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