The Universal Sound Nada Dhyana Mantra is a meditative formula focused on nada (sound) as a means to realize the supreme reality. The term 'nada' in Hindu dharma refers to both audible sound and the subtle, inner vibration that underlies creation. This mantra is primarily associated with Nada Brahman, the concept of Brahman as sound, as expounded in the Nada Bindu Upanishad (verses 1-6), which describes the unstruck sound (anahata nada) as the essence of the Self. The practice involves withdrawing the senses and concentrating on the inner sound, leading to the absorption of the mind into pure vibration.
The beej-akshara (seed syllable) 'Om' is central, as it represents the primordial vibration from which all sound emanates, according to the Mandukya Upanishad (verse 1). The mantra is often chanted silently or mentally, with the practitioner focusing on the resonance within the heart center (anahata chakra). Traditional purposes include calming the mind, transcending dualities, and attaining samadhi. The recommended chanting context is during meditation, preferably in a quiet environment, at dawn or dusk, with a count of 108 repetitions using a rudraksha mala.
The Nada Bindu Upanishad (verse 12) cautions that the practitioner must be free from attachment to external sounds and distractions. This mantra is universal and not tied to a specific deity form, making it accessible to all seekers. The practice is also referenced in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (4.66-69), which describes nada as a means to achieve laya (absorption). The mantra is chanted for the meditation on the inner sound, for the absorption in the unstruck sound, and for the realization of the self as pure vibration.
The primordial sound, the essence of the universe.
Om is the ultimate seed-syllable (bīja) representing the unmanifest and manifest aspects of Brahman. It is the source of all sound and vibration.