The Dhyana Dhyana Mantra (Advanced) is a specialized meditative formula rooted in the Tantric Mahavidya tradition, designed to cultivate the state of dhyana—uninterrupted mental flow toward a single object. Unlike simpler concentration mantras, this advanced practice aims to dissolve the distinction between meditator and meditation, leading to samadhi. The term 'Dhyana Dhyana' is a repetition that emphasizes the deepening of contemplation itself. According to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (3.1-3.2), dhyana is the continuous flow of awareness (tatra pratyayaikatanata dhyanam), and this mantra is chanted to stabilize that flow.
The Mantra Mahodadhi (Chapter 7) describes similar beej mantras used in tantric meditation, often incorporating the syllable 'Om' as the primordial sound representing the union of consciousness and energy. The phonetics of the mantra—typically comprising 'Om' followed by a resonant nasalization—induces a vibratory state that calms the mind and aligns the practitioner with the subtle currents of prana. The deity associated is 'Various', as the mantra can be directed toward any chosen ishta-devata, but in the Mahavidya context, it is often linked to Tripura Sundari or Bhairavi, who embody the supreme meditative consciousness. Traditional purposes include attaining mental stillness, piercing the veil of duality, and experiencing the bliss of pure awareness.
The recommended chanting context is during early morning or midnight in a solitary, clean space, with a count of 108 repetitions per session using a rudraksha or sphatika mala. Advanced practitioners may chant for longer periods, up to 1,008 repetitions, especially during meditation retreats. Cautions: This mantra should only be attempted after mastering basic concentration (dharana) and under the guidance of a qualified guru, as improper practice can lead to mental imbalance. The Devi Mahatmya (Chapter 11) warns that without proper purification, intense dhyana may agitate the subtle body.
The Lalita Sahasranama (verse 138) praises the goddess as 'Dhyana-dhyana-priya' (fond of deep meditation), indicating the mantra's high spiritual efficacy. Ultimately, this mantra is a tool for realizing the non-dual nature of reality, as expounded in the Shaktisangama Tantra, where dhyana is described as the bridge between the individual self and the cosmic consciousness.
Salutations to the meditation of meditation (the supreme state of dhyana).
The mantra contains no explicit seed syllables; 'Om' serves as the primordial beej.