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Spiritual TransformationLord Shiva
Om Namah Shivaya — Meaning Word by Word
ॐ नमः शिवाय
Om Namah Shivaya
Word-by-Word Meaning
| Word | Transliteration | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| ॐ | oṃ | The primordial sound; the supreme reality (Brahman) from which all creation arises |
| नमः | namaḥ | Salutation, reverent bow; "I honor" — the offering of the ego in surrender |
| शिवाय | śivāya | To Shiva, "the auspicious one" (dative case); the benevolent inner Self |
Full Meaning
Salutations to Lord Shiva
This mantra contains the five syllables (Na-Ma-Shi-Va-Ya) representing earth, water, fire, air, and ether
How to Chant
Chant continuously with a mala, focusing on the breath and the meaning
Pronunciation
OHM nuh-MAH shee-VAH-yuh
Repetitions
108 times or continuous
Duration
15-30 minutes
When to Chant
Any time, especially early morning and evening, Monday, Maha Shivaratri
Benefits
Promotes spiritual awakeningRemoves negative karmaBrings inner peace and calmEnhances meditation practiceProtects from negative influencesPromotes self-realization