Sacred Chants and Mantras
Among spiritual practices, prayer and mediation are probably the most universally recommended. Whether with mantras, holy names, or words of surrender, chanted in community or in solitude, in song or in complete silence, heartfelt communion with one’s preferred Godhead is a sure way to elevate your soul.
Here are but a few major mantras, ancient sounds are pathways to inner peace and devotion that resonate across spiritual traditions.
Ōṁ (Aum): The universal sound
Ōṁ (Aum) is revered as the seed mantra in all Vedic scriptures and represents the essence of the Absolute. It serves as a fundamental tool for meditation on the yogic path to liberation, encapsulating the entire cosmos in its vibration. Chanting Ōṁ can bring a deep sense of calm and connection to the universal consciousness.
The Maha Mantra: for this age of quarrel and hypocrisy
Among the most well-known mantras across the world is the Vedic mantra: Hare Krsna Hare Krsna, Krsna Krsna Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare. It translates as, "O Divine Couple, kindly let me serve You with love and devotion." Hare addresses the Eternal Feminine energy of the most attractive Lord, Shri Krishna, also known as the reservoir of bliss, Shri Rama.
Originally found in the Kalisantarana Upanishad, this very ancient mantra is considered most suited for the current age of quarrel and hypocrisy (Kali-yuga)
Om Mani Pädme Hum: The jewel in the lotus
This is arguably the most famous Buddhist mantra, said to contain the essence of Tibetan and East Asian Buddhism. Originating from its Mahayana branch, it is widely chanted by laypersons and monastics alike, and frequently copied onto prayer wheels.
The Sanskrit word mani means jewel, while padme translates to lotus. The jewel symbolizes compassion, while the lotus represents wisdom. In its most literal translation, the mantra addresses "the jewel in the lotus!" Together, compassion and wisdom represent the essence of Mahayana Buddhism.
Nam Myōhō Renge Kyō: Devotion to the mystic dharma
In Japan, the Lotus Sūtra is a lengthy, highly revered text, chanting which is meant to unlock one's innate Buddhahood. This sacred phrase (南無妙法蓮華経) is central to Nichiren Buddhism. Its litteral meaning is, "Devotion to the Mystic Dharma of the Lotus Flower Sutra."