What Does “Om Mani Padme Hum” Means? : Understand Meaning Behind The Mantra
- 30-Jun-2017
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“Om Mani Padme Hum, Om Mani Padme Hum”, is a continuous chant that you hear while walking on the streets of the Thamel area in Kathmandu, similarly around Buddhist monasteries and stupas too. It can be said as the most popular and peaceful mantra. But have you ever tried to know what does this epic Buddhist mantra means?
It is believed that this six-syllable mantra is derived from the Sanskrit language that originated in India. While trekking around higher altitudes, you also must have seen white carvings on rocks in the Tibetan language, whereas in the same way, this important chant is also there in prayer wheels and prayer flags. Whenever someone spins the wheels, it describes the same activity as chanting “Om Mani Padme Hum”.
When we asked Buddhist monks about the meaning, some of them said that this mantra comprises the entire Buddhist teaching and simply cannot be translated into simple words. However, the search for its actual meaning leads us to its literal translation which gave the meaning with a piece of advice “Praise to the Jewel in Lotus”.
Further, in our effort to know the detailed meaning of this holy mantra, different people from Buddhist and Hindu backgrounds have various ideologies. But in all those interpretations, we found one common thing that goes around understanding the meaning of realm, belief in six realms of existence, and purification of vice-related to that realm. Another noticeable interpretation goes like this:
“Om”: Chanting “Om” purifies the moment of bliss. It is the Realm of gods.
“Ma”: And “Ma” chants purifies the jealousy and need for entertainment. It is Realm of the Jealous gods
“Ni”: Next “Ni” purifies human desire and passion. Realm of Human
“Pad”: Chanting “Pad” purifies ignorance. Realm of Animal
“Me”: Likewise, “Me” purifies greed. Realm of hungry ghosts and spirits
“Hum”: Finally “Hum” purifies hatred and aggression. Realm of Hell
Therefore as a conclusion, we can say that “Om Mani Padme Hum” purifies the negative energies that surround us and keeps us calm giving positive vibrations. So, whenever next time if anyone asks you what it means, we hope you can answer the meaning behind this popular holy mantra.
