Why should you chant Omkara, Om (ॐ)?

Om (ॐ) is often considered the primordial sound of the universe. It is a sacred syllable in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, symbolizing the essence of the ultimate reality, consciousness, or Atman (soul). The concept of Om encompasses the entire cosmic vibration and is said to represent the past, present, and future, as well as the transcendent state beyond time.

From a scientific perspective, the universe indeed produces a variety of sounds, though not in the conventional sense we hear with our ears. These sounds are often recorded as electromagnetic waves and converted into audible frequencies.

Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation: The Big Bang theory suggests that the universe began with a massive explosion, which left behind a faint glow known as the cosmic microwave background radiation. In 2003, NASA’s Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP) captured this radiation, revealing fluctuations that could be translated into sound. Physicist John Cramer from the University of Washington translated these fluctuations into sound waves, creating a deep, resonant tone reminiscent of the "Om" sound.

Black Holes: In 2003, astronomers using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory discovered sound waves emanating from a supermassive black hole in the Perseus cluster of galaxies. The waves were too low for the human ear to hear, with a pitch about 57 octaves below middle C. When scaled up, these waves also produce a deep, rumbling tone that parallels the meditative quality of "Om."

The 'Music' of the Spheres: Johannes Kepler, a 17th-century German astronomer, introduced the concept of the "music of the spheres," suggesting that the planets and stars move in harmonic ratios. Although this idea was more philosophical, modern astrophysicists have found that the vibrations and oscillations within stars can be captured and converted into sound, once again producing deep, resonant tones akin to the "Om."

These scientific findings underline the profound and almost mystical connection between ancient spiritual concepts and modern astrophysical discoveries. The resonance of "Om" with the sounds produced by the universe serves as a bridge between spirituality and science, illustrating the deep-seated human intuition about the nature of the cosmos.

According to the Vedas, the sacred syllable Om (ॐ) is composed of three fundamental sounds: 'A,' 'U,' and 'M.' These are considered basic sounds because anyone can produce them, regardless of their understanding of linguistics or even if they are mute. These sounds are innate and can be created naturally.

If you listen to a newborn child who has just begun to vocalize, you will often hear these primary sounds. Parents often rejoice when their child starts making these initial sounds, perceiving them as early steps in the learning to speak. The sounds 'OooOoo,' 'UuUu,' and 'Mamama' are among the first vocalizations a child makes. These sounds are produced effortlessly without the need for complex tongue movements, making them universally accessible.

'O' (pronounced as 'OOO'): This is a basic vowel sound that originates deep in the throat and is naturally produced by simply opening the mouth and vocalizing. It represents the waking state, creation, and the physical world.

'U' (pronounced as 'UUU'): This sound is formed by bringing the lips closer together and pushing the sound forward. It symbolizes the dream state, preservation, and the mental world.

'M' (pronounced as 'Mmm'): This is produced by closing the lips and creating a humming sound, which is a simple yet profound way to end the vocalization. It signifies the deep sleep state, dissolution, and the spiritual world.

Together, these sounds form Omkara, the complete sound of Om (ॐ). When combined, 'A,' 'U,' and 'M' create a powerful vibration that is believed to be the foundation of the universe. This fusion of sounds embodies the cycle of creation, preservation, and dissolution, reflecting the continuous flow of the cosmos.

The simplicity and universality of these sounds suggest that Om is a primal sound, accessible to all human beings regardless of their language or physical abilities. It is not just a linguistic construct but a fundamental resonance that ties humans to the universe. The Vedas thus present Om as the essence of cosmic creation, encapsulating the very basis of existence.

The basic sounds of Omkara (ॐ) symbolize the very essence of the universe. This existence is predicated on three fundamental aspects: Creation, Maintenance, and Destruction. Each of these aspects is represented by the three sounds within Omkara: 'A' (Creation), 'U' (Maintenance), and 'M' (Destruction). Together, these sounds form a harmonious balance that sustains the cosmos.

Creation ('A'): This sound represents the beginning of existence and the process of creation. It is the initial impulse that brings forth life and the universe.

Maintenance ('U'): This sound signifies preservation and sustenance. It embodies the ongoing process of maintaining and nurturing what has been created.

Destruction ('M'): This sound represents the necessary process of dissolution and transformation. It is an integral part of the cycle that allows for rebirth and renewal.

While the concepts of creation and maintenance are often readily accepted and even celebrated, the notion of destruction can be unsettling. One might question why they should chant a sound that represents destruction. However, destruction is an unavoidable truth that plays a crucial role in the cycle of existence. Without destruction, renewal and creation cannot occur.

For example, when we eat food, the grains or animals that we consume are destroyed. This act of destruction is vital because it provides the nutrients our bodies need to create new cells and sustain life. Destruction, therefore, is not inherently negative; it is a transformative process that enables growth and continuation. The ecosystem of the universe operates as a continuous cycle of destruction, recreation, and sustainability. This cyclical process is essential for the balance and harmony of existence. While the concepts of creation and maintenance are often readily accepted and even celebrated, the notion of destruction can be unsettling. One might question why they should chant a sound that represents destruction. However, destruction is an unavoidable truth that plays a crucial role in the cycle of existence. Without destruction, renewal and creation cannot occur.

In the cosmic sense, destruction paves the way for new creation. Stars explode in supernovae, scattering elements that form new stars and planets. Forest fires, though devastating, clear deadwood and make way for new growth. Similarly, personal and societal transformations often require the dismantling of old structures to build something new and better.

Chanting Om (ॐ) acknowledges this profound cycle of creation, maintenance, and destruction. It is a recognition of the balance and interconnectedness of all aspects of existence. By embracing all three components, we honor the full spectrum of life and the dynamic processes that sustain the universe.

There is a proper way of chanting Omkara where the sounds 'O' and 'M' each contribute fifty percent, and the 'U' sound serves as the transition between them. This method ensures that the chant resonates correctly, capturing the essence of each phase of the cycle. The correct pronunciation and timing of these sounds are crucial to experiencing the full benefits of the chant.

To learn the precise technique, you can watch this detailed video that explains the proper way to chant Omkara. Following these guidelines can enhance your meditation practice, bringing deeper awareness and harmony to your experience.

By Pradeep Mahaur – Pradeep Mahaur Magazine

Insights on Hindu Wisdom and Global Affairs from an Indic perspective.