Om (Primordial Sound)
Jack UtermoehlOm (also spelled AUM) is considered the most sacred sound and symbol in yogic and Hindu traditions.
It is the primordial vibration from which all creation arises—a sound that exists beyond time, space, and form.
Often chanted at the beginning and end of yoga classes and meditation, Om is not merely a sound but a multi-layered experience of consciousness itself.
It represents the entirety of existence: waking, dreaming, deep sleep, and that which transcends them all.
Etymology and Meaning
Sanskrit Spelling: ॐ
Root Components: A + U + M — symbolizing creation, preservation, and dissolution
Translation Variations: The Infinite, Sacred Sound, Universal Vibration
Pronunciation: Oṁ [AUM — ah-oo-mm, with silence afterward]
Each part of Om symbolizes a state of consciousness: 'A' represents waking, 'U' dreaming, 'M' deep sleep, and the silence that follows represents turiya—pure awareness beyond experience.
Symbolism and Components
Symbol: ॐ — The written form includes visual elements representing each state of consciousness
Element: Ether (Space) — the subtlest element, associated with vibration and presence
Chakra Connection: Primarily Ajna (Third Eye) and Sahasrara (Crown Chakra)
Mantra Type: Seed sound (bija mantra) of all mantras
Symbol Element |
Sanskrit |
State |
Meaning |
| Lower Curve | Jagrat | Waking | Awareness of external world |
| Middle Curve | Swapna | Dreaming | Mental experience, imagination |
| Upper Curve | Sushupti | Deep sleep | Dormant consciousness |
| Dot (Bindu) | Turiya | Pure awareness | Transcendence of duality and illusion |
| Semi Circle | Māyā | Veil of illusion | Barrier to enlightenment |
Practical Application
In Yoga Practice
- Chant Om to begin and close your practice, anchoring in presence
- Use Om in meditation to center the mind and deepen awareness
- Pair Om with breath—inhale deeply, chant slowly on the exhale
In Daily Life
- Repeat Om silently in stressful moments to regulate your nervous system
- Listen deeply to the vibration of Om—not just the sound, but its resonance
- Contemplate the layers of experience it symbolizes—ask what is beyond even thought
Quotes and Wisdom
"Om is the bow, the soul is the arrow, and Brahman is the target." — Mandukya Upanishad
"This syllable Om is indeed the whole universe." — Chandogya Upanishad
Modern Relevance
Om has become a global symbol of peace and unity. Yet its depth goes far beyond the surface.
In a fast-moving world, chanting or meditating on Om reconnects us to the stillness beneath all change—the ground of being that unites breath, body, and spirit.
It is both sound and silence, both practice and realization.
Jewelry Designed for Your Practice
We created this collection to honor the wisdom and beauty of yoga. Each piece is crafted with intention to support your journey, on and off the mat.
Related Concepts
Mantra: Om is the seed of all sacred sound. Often a key part of a mantra meditation practice.
Pranava: Another name for Om, meaning “humming” or “vibration”
Turiya: The fourth state of consciousness—beyond waking, dreaming, and deep sleep
How to Work with Om
Mindset: Approach Om with reverence and stillness—it is a gateway, not a performance
Actions: Chant regularly, meditate on the symbol, and listen for the silence after the sound
Reflection: Ask, “What part of me hears Om—and what is listening beyond even that?”
Suggested Reading
- The Mandukya Upanishad (the classical text on Om and the states of consciousness)
- The Heart of Yoga by T.K.V. Desikachar
- Living with the Himalayan Masters by Swami Rama
Conclusion
Om is the vibration at the heart of all things. It is not only a sound—it is a presence.
Whether whispered, sung, or felt in silence, Om connects you to the wholeness that is always within and beyond. It is the reminder that you are already home.
