In Hinduism, Maha Mantras and Transcendental Meditation Mantras are powerful and sacred chants that are believed to have spiritual significance and transformative qualities. These mantras are often repeated during meditation, prayer, or rituals to invoke blessings and connect with the divine. Here is a list of some prominent Maha Mantras from the Hindu religion:
- Om (Aum): The most fundamental and universal mantra, representing the essence of the ultimate reality or consciousness.
- Gayatri Mantra: “Om Bhur Bhuvah Swaha Tat Savitur Varenyam Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat” This sacred verse is dedicated to the Sun God and is considered a source of wisdom and spiritual enlightenment.
- Om Namah Shivaya: Devoted to Lord Shiva, it is a declaration of reverence and surrender to the divine consciousness.
- Hare Krishna (ISKCON Maha Mantra): “Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare” A chant in devotion to Lord Krishna and Lord Rama, believed to purify the mind and soul. Made popular by ISKCON Hare Krishna Movement all around the world.
- Om Namo Narayana: dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is chanted to seek his blessings and protection.
- Om Shanti: Repeated three times as “Om Shanti Shanti Shanti,” it’s a prayer for peace, tranquility, and inner harmony. Very commonly chanted after the completions of prayers in Hindu community.
- Saraswati: “Om Aim Saraswatyai Namah” Dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the divine source of knowledge and wisdom. It is believed to sollicite the blessing for success in education, art and professional career.
- Durga: “Om Dum Durgayei Namaha” Chanted in honor of Goddess Durga for strength and protection.
- Ganesha: “Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha” Devoted to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom.
- Mahamrityunjaya Mantra: “Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat” A powerful mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva for overcoming fear of death and seeking healing and longevity.
- Lakshmi: “Om Shreem Mahalakshmiyei Namaha” Chanted to invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
- Hanuman: “Om Shri Hanumate Namaha” Devoted to Lord Hanuman, the symbol of strength, devotion, and courage.
These Maha Mantras hold deep spiritual significance in Hinduism and are believed to have the power to transform one’s consciousness and bring about positive changes in life. When chanting these mantras, it’s essential to do so with sincerity, devotion, and a focused mind to experience their full benefits.
More Maha Mantras
- Rama: “Om Sri Rama Jaya Rama Jaya Jaya Rama” Chanted in devotion to Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, for spiritual upliftment.
- Kali: “Om Krim Kali” Dedicated to Goddess Kali, the fierce and compassionate deity, for protection and inner strength.
- Surya: “Om Hram Hreem Hroum Sah Suryaya Namaha” to honor Lord Surya, the Sun God, for vitality, health, and spiritual awakening.
- Sarva Mangala Mangalye: “Om Sarva Mangala Mangalye Shive Sarvartha Sadhike Sharanye Tryambake Gauri Narayani Namostute” A prayer to Goddess Narayani (an aspect of Devi Durga) for the well-being and protection of all.
- Sri Lalitha Sahasranama: A sacred hymn consisting of a thousand names of Goddess Lalitha Tripura Sundari, a form of Devi Parvati. Chanting it is believed to bring blessings and spiritual growth.
- Krishna Ashtakam: “Vasudeva Sutam Devam Kamsa Chaanoora Mardanam Devaki Paramaanandam Krishnam Vande Jagadgurum” An octet praising Lord Krishna for his divine qualities and teachings.
- Narasimha Mantra: “Ugram Viram Maha Vishnum Jvalantam Sarvato Mukham Nrisimham Bhishanam Bhadram Mrityur Mrityum Namamy Aham” dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, to seek protection and courage.
- Ayyappa Mantra: “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” Chanted by devotees of Lord Ayyappa, the deity of Sabarimala, for guidance and blessings during their pilgrimage.
- Navagraha Mantra: Chants dedicated to the nine planetary deities (Navagrahas) for planetary alignment, harmony, and mitigating astrological influences.
- Dattatreya Mantra: “Om Dattatreyaaya Namaha” Devoted to Lord Dattatreya, a combined form of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, for spiritual growth and guidance.
These additional Maha Mantras cover a variety of deities and aspects of the divine in Hinduism, each with its own unique significance and benefits. Chanting and meditating upon these can be a profound spiritual practice for those who follow the Hindu tradition.
Procedure for Mantra Jaap
Chanting Hindu mantras is a spiritual practice that can be deeply meaningful when done with reverence and understanding. Here is a basic procedure:
- Choose a Suitable Mantra: Select one that resonates with your spiritual goals, intentions, or the deity you wish to connect with. It’s essential to choose one that you feel a strong connection to and have faith in.
- Find a Quiet and Clean Space: Create a peaceful and clean environment for your practice. This can be a designated meditation area, temple, or any quiet space where you won’t be disturbed.
- Sit Comfortably: Sit in a comfortable and relaxed posture. You can sit on a chair or cushion with your back straight. The key is to maintain a posture that allows you to stay alert and focused.
- Invoke Divine Presence: Begin your practice by invoking the divine presence or the deity associated with the mantra. You can do this by offering a brief prayer or mental acknowledgment of the divine.
- Concentration and Focus: Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to center yourself. Focus your attention on the syllables you recite. As you chant, try to maintain full concentration on the sound and its meaning.
- Correct Pronunciation: Ensure that you pronounce the syllable correctly. If you are unsure, seek guidance from a knowledgeable source or teacher. Proper pronunciation is important for its effectiveness.
- Repetitions: Begin chanting at a slow and steady pace. You can use a mala (prayer beads) to keep count of the repetitions. Start with a manageable number of repetitions and gradually increase it over time.
- Meditative State: As you continue to chant, try to enter a meditative state. Let go of distracting thoughts and immerse yourself in the vibrations and its meaning.
- Duration and Frequency: The duration and frequency of your chanting practice can vary. Some people chant for a few minutes daily, while others dedicate more extended periods. Consistency is more important than duration.
- Closure and Gratitude: When you are ready to conclude your chanting session, gradually slow down the chanting and sit quietly for a few moments. Express gratitude for the divine presence and the opportunity to practice.
- Reflect and Integrate: After your chanting session, take a moment to reflect on your experience and any insights or feelings that arose during the practice. Consider how you can integrate the energy and its wisdom into your daily life.
- Regular Practice: Mantra chanting is most effective when done regularly. Establish a daily or weekly routine that works for you and stick to it.
Mudras for meditataion and Maha Mantra Japa
Mudras are hand gestures used in Hindu and Buddhist traditions to enhance the flow of energy and concentration during meditation and mantra japa (chanting). The mudra you choose to use during mantra japa can depend on your personal preference or the specific mantra you are chanting. Here are a few common mudras used during meditative practices:
- Jnana Mudra (Chin Mudra):
- How to do it: Touch the tip of your index finger to the tip of your thumb, forming a circle. Keep the other three fingers extended but relaxed.
- Significance: Jnana Mudra symbolizes knowledge and wisdom. It is commonly used during meditation and mantra chanting to enhance concentration and promote a sense of unity.
- Prithvi Mudra:
- How to do it: Touch the tip of your ring finger to the tip of your thumb while keeping the other fingers extended.
- Significance: Prithvi Mudra is associated with the earth element and can help you feel grounded and stable.
- Dhyana Mudra:
- How to do it: Place your hands on your lap with your right hand resting on top of your left hand, palms facing upward, and thumbs lightly touching each other.
- Significance: Dhyana Mudra is primarily used for meditation and can be used during japa to promote inner stillness and concentration.
- Anjali Mudra (Namaste Mudra):
- How to do it: Press your palms together in a prayer position in front of your chest.
- Significance: Anjali Mudra is a gesture of respect and greeting. It can be used during recitation to express devotion and reverence to the divine.
- Akash Mudra:
- How to do it: Touch the tips of your thumb and middle finger while keeping the other fingers extended.
- Significance: Akash Mudra is associated with the space element and is believed to enhance communication and openness to new experiences during meditation.
- Bhairava Mudra:
- How to do it: Interlock your fingers and extend your index fingers, pointing them upward while keeping the other fingers crossed.
- Significance: Bhairava Mudra is associated with Lord Bhairava, a fierce form of Lord Shiva. It can be used to channel powerful energies and enhance focus during practice.
When choosing a mudra for your mantra japa practice, consider the specific goals and intentions you have for your meditation. You can experiment with different mudras to find the one that resonates most with your practice and helps you maintain focus and concentration.
Assana (Posture)
There are several asanas (postures) that can be used during meditation and mantra recitation to promote physical comfort, stability, and concentration. The choice of asana depends on your flexibility, physical condition, and personal preferences. Here are some commonly used asanas:
- Sukhasana (Easy Pose):
- How to do it?: Sit cross-legged with your spine erect and your hands resting on your knees. This is a simple and comfortable posture for meditation and mantra japa.
- Padmasana (Lotus Pose):
- How to do it: Cross your legs and place each foot on the opposite thigh, with the soles facing upward. This is a classic meditation posture but may require flexibility and some practice to be able to do it correctly. It is also used in Yoga.
- Ardha Padmasana (Half Lotus Pose):
- How to do it: Cross one leg and place the foot on the opposite thigh, with the other leg extended. This is a variation of Padmasana and is more accessible for many people.
- Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose):
- How to do it: Kneel with your buttocks resting on your heels and your spine straight. This is a comfortable posture for meditation and mantra japa.
- Virasana (Hero Pose):
- How to do it: Kneel with your knees together and sit on your heels. This posture helps with grounding and stability during meditation.
- Siddhasana (Adept’s Pose):
- How to do it: Sit with one heel pressed against the perineum and the other foot on the opposite thigh. This is a traditional yoga pose.
- Swastikasana (Auspicious Pose):
- How to do it: Sit with your legs crossed and feet tucked under the opposite thighs. This is a comfortable and stable pose for meditation.
- Chair Meditation:
- How to do it: Sit on a straight-backed chair with your feet flat on the floor and your hands resting on your lap. This is a good option for those who have difficulty sitting on the floor. You have special meditation chair designed for such purposes.
- Standing Meditation:
- How to do it: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, keeping your back straight and your hands in a comfortable position, such as in front of your chest or resting at your sides.
- Corpse Pose (Shavasana):
- How to do it: Lie flat on your back with your legs extended and your arms at your sides, palms facing upward. This is often used for deep relaxation after meditation.
Alignment with Deity or Energy
In many Hindu traditions, facing a specific direction is believed to align the practitioner with a particular deity or cosmic energy associated with that direction. For example:
- Facing east is often considered auspicious as it is associated with the rising sun, symbolizing the light of knowledge, enlightenment, and the presence of deities like Surya (the Sun God).
- Facing north is associated with Kubera, the god of wealth and prosperity.
- Facing west may be chosen for practices related to Lord Varuna, the deity of water.
- Facing south may be associated with Lord Yama, the god of death, and is sometimes avoided for certain practices due to its association with inauspiciousness.
The number of repetitions required to attain Sidhi in a particular Maha Mantra Japa
Most repetitions are done in multiples of 108 using a mala ( 108 beads)
The number of repetitions required to attain “siddhi” (spiritual or mystical powers) through mantra japa can vary widely depending on several factors, including the specific mantra, the individual’s level of spiritual advancement, their sincerity, and their dedication to the practice. However, traditional texts and teachings do provide some general guidelines on the approximate number of repetitions for various stages of japa:
Preliminary Stage (Purashcharana): This stage typically involves the repetition of a mantra a certain number of times, often in multiples of 100,000 or 125,000. For example, you might repeat it 100,000 times, 125,000 times, or even more as part of your initial dedication to the practice. This stage is meant to purify the mind and establish a deep connection with the mantra.
Intermediate Stage: After completing the preliminary stage, some practitioners continue to repeat it regularly, typically in smaller numbers, as part of their daily practice. This ongoing practice helps maintain the connection with the mantra and deepens its effects over time.
Advanced Stages: Attaining siddhi, if it occurs, is believed to come after prolonged and dedicated practice, often over many years. Some sources suggest that siddhi may be attained after repeating millions of times. However, it’s important to note that the focus should not solely be on acquiring siddhi but on the spiritual growth and transformation that come with the practice.
Individual Variations: Siddhi is a deeply personal and spiritual achievement. Some practitioners may experience profound spiritual insights and powers with fewer repetitions, while others may not attain siddhi despite extensive practice. It depends on one’s individual path and readiness.
It’s crucial to emphasize that the pursuit of siddhi should not be the primary motivation for mantra japa. The true purpose of practice is spiritual growth, self-realization, and a deeper connection with the divine. Siddhi, if it occurs, is considered a byproduct of this journey rather than the ultimate goal.
Choice of Mala/Beads
In Hinduism, different deities and energies are associated with specific colors and materials for prayer beads or malas. The choice of mala beads can enhance your connection to a particular deity or energy during mantra japa or meditation. Here are some common associations between deities and suitable materials for malas:
- Lord Shiva:
- Suitable Mala: Rudraksha beads are most commonly associated with Lord Shiva. They are believed to be his favorite and are considered highly auspicious for his devotees.
- Goddess Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth):
- Suitable Mala: Malas made of clear quartz crystal, citrine, or other gemstones associated with abundance and wealth can be used for Goddess Lakshmi’s veneration.
- Goddess Durga (Goddess of Strength and Protection):
- Suitable Mala: Red sandalwood or coral malas are often used for Goddess Durga’s pooja. The color red symbolizes her fierce and protective nature.
- Lord Ganesha (Remover of Obstacles):
- Suitable Mala: Malas made of red sandalwood, tulsi (holy basil), or rudraksha beads are commonly used for Lord Ganesha’s mantras.
- Goddess Saraswati (Goddess of Knowledge and Wisdom):
- Suitable Mala: White sandalwood or clear quartz crystal malas are often chosen for Goddess Saraswati sadhna. White symbolizes purity and wisdom.
- Lord Krishna:
- Suitable Mala: Tulsi (holy basil) malas are considered ideal for Lord Krishna’s devotees. The tulsi plant is sacred to him.
- Lord Rama:
- Suitable Mala: Tulsi or lotus seed malas are commonly used for Lord Rama’s sadhna.
- Goddess Kali (Goddess of Transformation):
- Suitable Mala: Black onyx, black obsidian, or rudraksha malas are often chosen for Goddess Kali. Black represents her fierce and transformative energy.
- Sun God (Lord Surya):
- Suitable Mala: Ruby or red sandalwood malas are associated with the Sun God, symbolizing his radiant energy.
- Lord Hanuman (Devotee of Lord Rama):
- Suitable Mala: Red sandalwood or tulsi malas are commonly used for Lord Hanuman.
These associations are based on traditional beliefs and customs, and many practitioners find that using malas made from materials that are spiritually significant to a particular deity enhances their connection and devotion during practice. However, it’s essential to remember that the devotion and intention behind your practice are of utmost importance, and the choice of mala beads should resonate with your personal connection to the deity or energy you are invoking.
