OM (Aum )

OM is a mystic symbol, a monosyllable and regarded as the most powerful Hindu Mantra. It is supposed to be the first sound, which emerged from the Creator, s mouth .

All aspects of speech are believed to have come from this word. In Sanskrit, this sound is called Anahata Nada (unstruck sound) a sound that is not made of two objects striking together. It is the sound of primal energy. The shape of three represents the Trinity. It is a symbol of consciousness. Half moon and the dot stand for momentary silence between the two successive chants. It , thus , symbolises the three aspects of God creation, preservation and destruction. It also represents the whole phenomenon of sound producing. The proper way of pronouncing OM in English is  Aum .

A is the sound coming from the base of the throat, without touching any part of the tongue or palate.

U is produced by the impulse rolling forward in the mouth.

‘M’  is produced by closing the lips.

There is no sound beyond these two extremes. OM is chanted at commencement of all prayers and religious ceremonies and at the beginning of all Mantras.