The Gayatri Mantra: A Prayer for Illumination

The Gayatri Mantra

Original Text: Om Bhur Bhuvah Swah, Tat Savitur Varenyam, Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi, Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat.

Transliteration: Oṃ Bhūr Bhuvaḥ Svaḥ, Tat Savitur Vareṇyam, Bhargo Devasya Dhīmahi, Dhiyo Yo Naḥ Prachodayāt.

Breakdown

• Om: The primordial sound.
• Bhur: The physical world.
• Bhuvah: The intermediate space or atmosphere.
• Swah: The celestial world.
• Tat: That (referring to the Supreme).
• Savitur: Of the Sun, the divine illuminator.
• Varenyam: Worthy of worship, the best.
• Bhargo: Radiance, effulgence.
• Devasya: Of the divine being.
• Dheemahi: We meditate upon.
• Dhiyo: Intellect, understanding.
• Yo: Who.
• Nah: Our.
• Prachodayat: May inspire, illuminate.

The Mantra and Its Meaning

We meditate on the radiant light of the divine Sun, the source of all existence. May that divine light illuminate our intellect.

Associated Deity

Savitr, the solar deity, and the divine light that illuminates the universe.

Origin Story

This mantra is one of the most revered in Hinduism, found in the Rigveda. It represents the ultimate truth and is considered the mother of the Vedas.

How and When to Chant

Chant at sunrise, noon, and sunset. Ideal times are during the sandhya hours (twilight). Recite it daily to purify the mind.

Benefits

• Increased intelligence and wisdom.
• Purification of the mind and body.
• Spiritual enlightenment.
• Improved concentration and memory.