The term mantra comes from a Sanskrit word,
Mantram,
That combines the root manas or mind with tram or protection.
So the literal meaning is mind protection.
A mantra is a sound,
Syllable,
Word or a group of words that are considered capable of creating transformation.
Their use and type varies according to the school and philosophy associated with the mantra.
Mantras originated in the Vedic tradition of India.
The use of mantras is now widespread throughout various spiritual movements.
The basic mantra is Aum,
Which in Hinduism is known as the Pranava Mantra,
The source of all mantras.
It is considered a mantra in its own right in Vedanta mysticism.
The syllable Aum itself constituting a mantra represents Brahma,
The godhead,
As well as the whole of the creation.
The sounds of mantras are manifestations of ultimate reality.
Aum is considered central to both Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
Mantras can excite the emotions and give suggestions to the mind.
Mantras affect both the one who chants them as well as the one who hears them.
Repetition of mantras and with attention directed to the source of the sound completely engages the mind.
Thus the practice of mantra repetition is more than a suggestion,
A bit of advice or an idea.
It is actually a means of getting in touch with our own inner self.
Mantras may be used for religious worship,
For healing,
To help spiritual evolution,
For purification or for making offerings.
Chanting is a commonly used spiritual practice.
Like prayer,
Chant may be a component of either personal or group practice.
Chants are used in a variety of settings from ritual to recreation.
Mantras were originally conceived in the Vedas.
Most mantras follow the written pattern of two line shlokas,
Although they are often found in a single line or even single word form.
Aum being the most fundamental and powerful mantra is prefixed and suffixed to all Hindu prayers.
Continuous practice of mantra purifies the consciousness and the mind and helps remove the karma.
The mantra is internalized in five stages through writing,
Speaking,
Whispering,
Thinking and inner repetition.
The following meditation is called mantra meditation.
With your eyes closed,
Stay in a comfortable position and repeat the mantras.
