The Mystique of Om

Om is the most sacred mantra in major Indic religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. It symbolizes affirmation, benediction and peace, and is used ritualistically in prayers, invocations and ceremonies, religious as well as secular. It is also a magical symbol beyond compare and is regarded as a vehicle of attaining liberation (moksha). Not only this, at the highest level, it is identified with Brahman, the Ultimate Reality. Using the Vedas, Upanishads, Yoga, Tantra and several religious texts as his sources, the author describes a plethora of interpretations of this mystical monosyllable which has since time immemorial captivated its worshipers, put yogis into trance, made Tantra practitioners ecstatic, and sent its changers into religious frenzy. The author also explains secular interpretations of Om in linguistics, psychology and structural analysis.

In this revised edition the author provides more interpretations of Aum and points out interesting relationships among language, rhythm, rituals and mantras.

Review(s)

About the Author(s)

Jayant Burde received his M.Sc. degree in mathematics from Bombay University and a law degree from Bangalore University. He is also a Certificated Associate of Indian Institute of Bankers. His published papers contain mathematical models in finance, costing and organizational structure.

He has also authored five books: Philosophy of Numbers, Rituals, Mantras and Science (MLBD, 2004), Sunya and Nothingness (MLBD 2009), The Mystique of Om (New Age Books, 2007) and The World of Rhythm called Rituals (New Age Books, 2007).