Shiva Panchakshari Mantra

ॐ नमः शिवाय

Om Namah Shivāya

The Mantra and Its Meaning

Known as the Panchakshari (five-syllable) mantra, this is a core mantra of Shaivism and one of the most important mantras in Hinduism.

Om: The primordial sound that encompasses the universe.
Na: Represents Earth (Prithvi Tattva).
Ma: Represents Water (Jal Tattva).
Śi: Represents Fire (Agni Tattva).
Vā: Represents Air (Vayu Tattva).
Ya: Represents Ether or Space (Akasha Tattva).

Full Meaning: 'I bow to Shiva.' Shiva is the supreme reality, the inner Self. The mantra signifies surrendering to the divine will and recognizing the divinity within oneself and the universe, which is composed of the five elements.

Deity and Origin

This mantra is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is found in the Krishna Yajurveda as part of the Shri Rudram Chamakam hymn. It is a central part of Shaiva Siddhanta tradition.

Story Behind the Mantra

The mantra is considered to be the very essence of Lord Shiva's energy. There isn't a single narrative, as it's believed to be an eternal sound vibration. However, sages and scriptures state that this mantra was revealed to the Rishis in deep meditation as the most direct way to connect with the consciousness of Shiva. It is said that chanting this mantra is equivalent to chanting all the Vedas.

Who Should Chant This Mantra?

Anyone, irrespective of caste, creed, or gender, can chant this powerful mantra. It is recommended for those seeking self-realization, inner peace, and protection from all negativities.

How and When to Chant

Time: It can be chanted at any time of the day. However, chanting during the auspicious hours of dawn and dusk, or during a Mahashivaratri festival, is considered highly beneficial.
Preparation: A bath is recommended. One can sit in a quiet place, in front of a Shiva Lingam or a picture of Lord Shiva.
Method: The mantra is often chanted 108 times using a Rudraksha mala. It can be chanted silently, as a whisper, or aloud. The chanter should focus on the breath and the vibration of the sound.

Benefits and Advantages

Destroys Negative Energies: It destroys fear, attachment, and ego, and protects the devotee from negative influences and dangers.
Calms the Mind: The mantra has a calming effect on the mind and nervous system, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Awakens Inner Potential: It purifies the five elements within the body and awakens the dormant spiritual energy (Kundalini).
Grants Liberation: Sincere and continuous chanting is believed to grant the devotee liberation (moksha) from the cycle of rebirth.
No Disadvantages: This is a purely sattvic (pure) mantra with no known disadvantages. It brings only positive and divine energy to the chanter.