The Word and Holy Symbol AUM
AUM and the 3 symbol has many trinitarian relations and explanations.
The word AUM is composed of three syllables, namely the letters
A, U, M. The letter A, which represents creation, when all
existence issued forth from Brahma; the letter U, which refers
to Vishnu the God of the middle who preserves and the letter U
with the A, produces the sound of the long O. The M produces the
prolonged tone of the nasal cavity with the mouth closed: it is
the final part of the cycle of existence.
The symbol is made of three curves, a crescent and a dot. The
three curves represent the mental state of oneself, awake, dream
and deep sleep. These three states relate to an individual’s
conciousness. The dot signifies the Absolute (fourth or Turiya
state of consciousness), which illuminates the other three states.
The semicircle symbolizes Maya and separates the dot from the
other three curves.
AUM being sacred is used in praise and prayer of all deities.
Realising the importance of AUM a sage focuses his attention on
his beloved Deity, adding AUM to the name of the Lord e.g. Aum
Namah Sivaya. AUM is prefixed and suffixed to all Hindu mantras
and incantations. The word AUM being too vast, he unifies his
senses, will, intellect, mind and reason by focusing on the name
of the Lord and adding the word AUM with one pointed devotion and
so experiences the feeling and meaning of the mantra.
AUM has been used by great sages, saints and yogis in mantras and
in meditation. When chanted continuously, it brings us deep
relaxation, comfort, blessing, peace and tranquillity.
