On Hinduism

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23. Yoga and Meditation

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a. OM: What does it mean?

OM, ॐ or AUM (pranava) refers to Atman (soul, self within) and Brahman (ultimate reality, truth, divine, supreme spirit, cosmic principles).

OM is a mantra. Its meaning slightly differs depending on how it is used. First of all OM is a sound symbol for God or Divinity. Just like cross is a physical symbol for Christ, OM is also a symbol, but it is in a sound form. OM is used as a sound during meditation practice. You chant OM and listen to it. Here it is used just as a soothing sound. OM also means “Everything together” as in Infinity.

OM is made up of 3 letters followed by silence;  (In Sanskrit; breathing pattern is explained) A (expel air from stomach area) + U (expel air from the chest region) +  M (think like you are expelling air from your mind and mouth) + silence (a brief breathless period). AUM stands for beginning, middle and end + silence. 

Other reading material: Yoga Sutra 1.27 , What is AUṀ? , The Significance of ॐ: A Linguistic and Philosophical Analysis

Relevant videos:

Contributor: Dr. Jyoti Lulla

Location of this post (23a): https://www.hinduspeakers.org/ufaqs/om-what-does-it-mean/

Category: 23. Yoga and Meditation
Tags: Atman, aum, Brahman, mantra, Om, Yoga

32. Hindu terminologies

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d. What is Om Tat Sat?

Om Tat Sat is known as the triple designation of Brahman—the Ultimate Reality. Each word reflects a different aspect of Truth:

  • Om – The primordial sound symbolizing the Absolute, the infinite substratum on which body, mind, and intellect appear and function. It represents the pure Self beyond all limitations.
  • Tat – Meaning “That,” it points to Brahman as the eternal, changeless, and perfect goal of all spiritual pursuit.
  • Sat – Meaning “existence” or “truth,” it is the principle of reality present in all things we see, feel, and think—pervading the universe as the essence of being.

Together, Om Tat Sat affirms that there is only one ultimate Reality—Brahman. Chanting or contemplating on Om Tat Sat helps purify the heart, elevate thoughts, and guide actions toward truth and harmony.

Contributor: Dilip Amin

Location of this post (32d): https://www.hinduspeakers.org/ufaqs/what-is-om-tat-sat/

Category: 32. Hindu terminologies
Tags: Brahman, Om, Sat, Tat