SPIRITUAL

‘Om’ or ‘Aum’ commonly appears on bumper stickers, windows, tattoos, and jewelry. But is there more significance to this sound and image? Are there other ideas, concepts, and principles encapsulated within this word? If one were to look at the teachings from the great Indian civilization the answer would surely be, YES!

The Om (or Aum) sign is the main symbol of Hinduism.

Most religions indicate that creation began with sound-- In the beginning was the word...

For the Hindus & Buddhists, Om is the primordial sound, the first breath of creation, the vibration that ensures existence. Om sign signifies God, Creation, & the One-ness of all creation.

With its threefold nature, special shape and unique sound, AUM lends itself to a variety of detailed symbolic interpretations.The symbol of AUM consists of three curves, one semicircle, and a dot. The lower larger curve symbolizes the waking state (Jagrat). In this state, the consciousness is turned outwards through the gates of the senses. The larger size signifies that this is the most common state of the human consciousness. The upper curve denotes the state of deep sleep (Sushupti) or the unconscious state. This is a state where the person who sleeps neither desires nor beholds any dream. The middle curve 3, which lies between deep sleep and the waking state, signifies the dream state (Swapna). In this state the consciousness of the individual is turned inwards, and the dreaming self beholds an enthralling view of desires. The dot signifies the fourth state of consciousness, known as Turiya. In this state the consciousness looks neither outwards nor inwards, nor the two together. It signifies an utterly quiet, peaceful and blissful state, the ultimate aim of all spiritual activity.

Finally, the semi circle symbolizes illusion (Maya) and separates the dot from the other three curves. Thus it is this illusion that prevents us from the realization of this highest state of bliss. The semi circle is open at the top, and when ideally drawn does not touch the dot. This means that this highest state is not affected by Maya. In this manner, the form of AUM represents the hidden and the manifest.