Opening Mantra Chanting
Om
Vande gurunam charanavinde
I bow to the lotus feet of the gurus,
Sandarsita svatmasukhava bodhe
who awakens insight into the happiness of pure being,
Nishreyase jangalikayamane
like the jungle healer, who brings great well-being,
Samsara halahala mohashantyai
dispelling the poison of conditioned existence.
Abahu purusakaram
The upper body having human form,
Shankachakrasi dharinam
Holding a conch, discus and sword,
Sahasra sirasam svetam
Having a thousand branched heads of white [light].
Pranamami Patanjalim
I bow to Patanjali
Om
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Explanation:
This mantra is a tribute to the revered sage Patanjali, often regarded as the father of yoga. It begins with an expression of deep reverence and humility, acknowledging the lotus feet of the gurus who illuminate the path of self-realization. These gurus lead seekers to the profound joy of pure existence, offering guidance like a skilled healer in a dense jungle, bringing well-being to those lost in the complexities of life.
The mantra then describes Patanjali’s form: an upper body with a human appearance, holding sacred symbols—a conch, discus, and sword. His image is depicted with a thousand radiant heads of white light, symbolizing his vast wisdom and insight.
The mantra concludes with a final salutation, where the practitioner bows in respect to Patanjali, recognizing his pivotal role in codifying the principles and practices of yoga.
In essence, this mantra pays homage to the lineage of yoga teachers and the wisdom of Patanjali, acknowledging their profound impact on the path to spiritual awakening and liberation.
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Closing Mantra Chanting
Om
Svasti praja bhyaha pari pala yantam
May the rulers of the earth keep to the path of virtue
Nya yena margena mahi mahishaha
for protecting the welfare of all generations
Go brahmanebhyaha shubamastu nityam
May the religions, and all peoples be forever blessed
Loka samastah sukhino bhavantu
May the whole of all the worlds be happy
Om shanti shanti shanti
Om, peace peace peace
Explanation:
The mantra, initiated with the sacred syllable “Om,” is a profound invocation and prayer for the well-being, peace, and prosperity of all beings and the entire world. It begins by offering blessings and guidance to the rulers and leaders of the world, urging them to govern with virtue and righteousness, ensuring the welfare of their subjects. This call for ethical leadership is a cornerstone of the mantra, emphasizing the importance of just and equitable governance that protects the interests of all generations.
The mantra then extends its blessings to encompass all religions and communities, wishing perpetual well-being and harmony among diverse faiths. It expresses the universal aspiration for happiness and contentment among all beings in all realms. Finally, the mantra concludes with the sacred sound “Om” and the triple invocation of “shanti” (peace), underscoring the fervent wish for inner peace, societal harmony, and peace throughout the cosmos. In essence, it is a timeless prayer for unity, righteousness, and the collective well-being of humanity and the world.