Tuesday, November 16, 2010

The Gayatri Mantra....

The Gayatri Mantra is a highly revered mantra in Hinduism. Written in Sanskrit, it consists of the prefix :oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ ॐ भूर्भुवस्वः, a formula taken from the Yajurveda, and the verse 3.62.10 of the Rigveda (which is an example of the Gayatri metre, whence the mantra's name). Since the other three Vedas contain material from the Rigveda, the Gayatri mantra is found in all four Vedas. The deva invoked in this mantra is Savitr, so the mantra is also called Sāvitrī. A personification of this mantra has come to be worshiped as a goddess in her own right, Gayatri. The Gayatri Mantra is praised in several other Hindu scriptures, including Manusmṛti, Atharvaveda, and the Bhagavad Gita.

The Gayatri Mantra is an important part of the upanayanam (sacred thread) ceremony for Brahmins, and was traditionally chanted only by Brahmin males, generally as part of their daily rituals. In modern times, chanting of the Gayatri Mantra is more widespread, such as at cultural celebrations, and its use has spread to include non-Brahmins and women.

"Aum Bhur Bhuvah Swah, Tat Savitur Varenyam
Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi, Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat."

" ॐ भूर्भुव: स्व: तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यं । भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि, धीयो यो न: प्रचोदयात् ।। "

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