Day 3: Meaning and Significance of the OM symbol
The Om or Aum symbol is one of the most well-known symbols and sounds around the world. It comes to my blog and artful play today courtesy of my dear friend Rodolfo in Costa Rica who suggested it on my Instagram feed when I asked for ideas of symbols to include in my 100 day project. Yes, I said, of course! Especially when I remembered that I have a beautiful stencil of this very symbol and it’s one of my favorites to incorporate in my paintings.
According to Ancient-Symbols.com: The Om symbol is composed of three distinct sounds: a, u and m. It should be pointed out that the number three is important in Hinduism since it teaches that there are three worlds (earth, heaven, and the atmosphere), three major gods (Brahma, Vishnu, and Siva), and three Vedic scriptures: Rg, Yajur, and Sama. Because of this, it is believed that Om contains the essence of life and the universe. It is also said that sound (the sacred sound Om) was created before the universe.
Once could go deep into the history, meaning and significance of this symbol and it’s mean appearances in historical texts and sacred traditions. I found lots of great research. Here are a couple of articles for further reading if you are interested:
I had fun creating with this symbol today, as I always do. I find it to be eye-catching, graceful and beautiful – even without knowing it’s meaning.
Also, I find that repeating the mantra “aum” is a powerful practice, especially when done in concert with others. The reverberations of sound and energy are truly magical and do lift the spirits and help me to always remember the interconnectedness of all beings.
Right now Om reminds us to pause, to breathe in, to breathe out, to chant, to connect and to remember that we thrive because of our connections. Namaste my friends.
What are some of your favorite symbols and how do they show up in your life?
Three truly is a sacred number. I’m always in awe of the overlapping sacred points between differing religions. Your art is gorgeous.
Thank you Lillian and yes, so true about the humber three.
Beautiful picture and I can’t wait to show my son who could do something like this in his Homeschooling Art Class.
Perfect, great idea! Studying and drawing symbols is wonderful for children, they love it.
I used to use Ahm / Ohm with my nieces when they were small. When things were crazy, I would stop put my fingers together and being chanting before long there were two little girls doing the same. It is a precious memory. We still do it sometimes when things get tense or we need a laugh. Thank you Minette for stirring the memory.
Such a sweet memory, I love that Cindy!