Oṃ Namaḥ Śivāya: a Meditative Practice

Oṃ namaḥ śivāya is possibly one of the most well-known mantras used for Japa (silent repetition of mantra) and worship. In this short course, we will trace back to the source of this mantra in the Vedas, therefore learning its context and meaning. From the Yajur Veda’s most powerful hymn to Lord Śiva-Rudra, Oṃ namaḥ śivāya is an extract, called the Śiva pañcākṣarī or the five-syllabled mantra. It is said that chanting Oṃ namaḥ śivāya is as good as chanting the whole Veda! Śiva means maṅgala, happy end, the grand finale. Salutation to Lord Śiva who gives absolute happiness. (Swami Dayananda Saraswati)