MANTRA

Mantra is a sacred utterance, syllable, word, or phrase that is believed to have spiritual, psychological, or physiological effects. The term comes from the Sanskrit mantra, from man- “to think” and -tra “instrument” or “tool,” often described as an instrument of thought used to focus attention during meditation or ritual.

Mantras originated in ancient Indian traditions and have been used in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. In Hindu practice, mantras are often addressed to deities and chanted in rituals or during japa, the repetitive recitation often using a mala to count cycles. In Buddhism, mantras may be recited for protection, purification, or enlightenment; in Tibetan traditions, prominent examples include Om mani padme hum.

Mantra types include bija (seed) mantras such as Om, Krim, or Hrim; longer phrases known as maha-mantras like Om Namah Shivaya; and devotional or protective mantras such as Om mani padme hum or Hare Krishna. They can be spoken aloud, whispered, or repeated silently, and are commonly practiced with attention to breath and cadence.

In contemporary settings, mantras are used in meditation and psychotherapy contexts, yoga classes, and mindfulness programs as focal points to reduce distraction and cultivate calm. While some claims about transformative powers are religious or spiritual, researchers note that repetitive voice or mental recitation can alter attention and arousal states.

Examples include Om (Aum), So Hum, Om Namah Shivaya, Om mani padme hum, and Hare Krishna.