The Om Mani Padme Hum mantra is one of the most sacred, revered and chanted mantras in the world. Many Buddhist practitioners and pilgrims recite this mantra hundreds or even thousands of times a day. In Tibet, this mantra can be found printed on prayer flags, carved or painted on small or large stones, inserted into Buddhist gaus, written or engraved on Buddhist prayer wheels, statues, and jewelry such as pendants, medallions, bangles and rings.
What is the Meaning of the Om Mani Padme Hum Mantra?
There is no exact meaning of the Om Mani Padme Hum mantra, as the spiritual meaning transcends the literal meaning of its syllables. It is ultimately believed that the each of the Buddha’s teachings resides within this one powerful mantra. And whether chanted aloud or silently spoken to oneself, written down or viewed in written form, will invoke within the innately loving qualities of one's true nature.
The Om Mani Padme Hum mantra is widely associated with Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. The syllables represent different aspects of enlightenment and offer protection and blessings to those who recite it.
The Om Mani Padme Hum mantra is commonly translated as "The jewel is in the lotus". Which means that "the divine resides within each of us".
What is the Meaning of each of the Syllables?
The first syllable is "Om" (ॐ). Om symbolizes the universe and represents the dawn of the creation of everything. Chanting this syllable can help one to purify their arrogance, pride and ego, while also helping them to become more generous in their daily expression.
The second syllable is "Ma" (म). It represents the mother and the creative power of the universe. When chanting this syllable, it can help one to purify their lust and jealousy, and help them to develop a healthy set of moral ethics.
The third syllable is "Ni" (णि). It symbolizes the individual and their journey through life. When chanting this syllable, it can help one to purify their desire for material things and their desire to manifest ideals, and help them to become more patience and understanding of the nature of living.
The fourth syllable is "Pad" (प). This syllable embodies the virtuous path of attaining spiritual enlightenment. When chanting this syllable, it can help one to purify their ignorance and prejudice, and help them to develop a stronger sense of perseverance, tenacity and integrity.
The fifth syllable is "Me" (द्मे). It represents the culmination of one's journey and the realization of enlightenment. When chanting this syllable, it can help one to purify their greed, and help them to establish a higher level of focus and concentration.
The sixth syllable is "Hum" (हूँ). It represents the union of compassion and wisdom. When chanting this syllable, it can help one to purify their feelings of hatred and aggression and thoughts of violence and wrong doing, and help them to become more wise.
