NAMASTE & AUM

The symbol of AUM, like the meaning, is universal and symbolizes the formless aspect of God.

AUM is not a word but rather an intonation, which, like music, transcends the barriers of age, race, culture and even species. It is made up of three Sanskrit letters, aa, au and ma which, when combined together, make the sound AUM or OM.

It is believed to be the basic sound of the world and to contain all other sounds. It is a mantra or prayer in itself. If repeated with the correct intonation, it can resonate throughout the body so that the sound penetrates to the centre of one's being, the atman or soul.

AUM is considered as the essence and the highest of all Mantras and divine words.

AUM also represents the four levels of consciousness.
A - Waking
U - Dreaming
M - Deep Sleep

The Fourth level the silent presence between the ending of one sound of AUM and the beginning of the other. It is the silent presence which exists in all and enables everything.

In the Kabbala, the secret and sacred tradition, which stands as the heart and soul of Judaism, the parallel Hebrew letters to "A.U.M", comprise one of the 72 names of God. The "72 names of God" are not names in their literal meaning, but in fact 3 letters combinations in Hebrew, which possess special and unique powers.

The combination in the Hebrew letters " א.ו.ם " (reading right to left), stands for the English letters A.U.M (reading left to right). This specific sequence of letters represents a connection between Spirit and Matter, between people and cultures - a sign for Unity.

For more information on AUM in Judaism and the Kabbala go to: aum-dojo.com