What does Om Symbol signify in Hinduism?

 

What does Om Symbol signify in Hindu Culture?

Om is the most sacred symbol of Hindu people. It is extensively used as a face of the Hindu culture. You would often seen this type of symbols in Hindu Temples, Houses, Devotional and pilgrimage sites. But do you know what does this symbol means?

In this blog post, I will tell you about What does Om symbol signifies and what importance does it has in the Vedic religion.

What is Om?

Om or Aum is a three syllable word. It is composed of three letters (A), (O) and (M). However it is pronounced as "Om". 

According to the scriptures, this word describes the creation of the Universe. This sound is said to be the vibration of Universe. That means the whole Universe makes the sound "Om".

In the legends, it is mentioned that when the World was created, the first sound which was heard, was the Om. From it, all other vibrations come out. 

In terms of frequency, vibrations and energy; Om is the utmost level of energy one person can achieve through meditating on the Supreme God.

Recitation of Om produces positive vibes in our surroundings which makes the environment smooth and peaceful. 

Representation of Om

The three syllable word (A-U-M) represents the universal trinities of the Universe. Here are some cosmic trinities which it represents:

• The three supreme Gods of Hinduism: Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh 
• The three qualities of Human Beings: Sattva (Goodness), Rajas (Desires) & Tamas (Ignorance)
• The three worlds: Earth, Heaven and Hell
• The original Vedas: Rig, Sama, Yajur
• The three elements of an atom: Proton, Neutron and Electron
• The three supreme Goddesses of this world: Parvati, Laxmi and Saraswati
• The three frames of times: Past, Present and Future

Use of Om in Meditation and Yoga

The chanting of Om while doing meditation or yoga produces positive vibes as I told you in introduction. 

While chanting rosary beads as well, Om is chanted. The recitation of Om sound is also used in Bhakti traditions.