Om is the most sacred symbol in Hinduism. It is a symbol as well as a syllable. It is also spelled as AUM. It is also known as Omkar or Pranava. It consists of three letters: A, U, and M. It is the fundamental Hindu mantra (Bij Mantra). All the important mantras start with Om. Aum is the sound present at the time of the creation of the universe. It contains all the words, mantras, and sounds in this world and is the only physical form of the Supreme God, Brahman. It is pronounced as “O” followed by “M” as in “mother.”

Om is sacred not only for Hindus but also for Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs. In fact, Om is universal and does not belong to any particular religion. It is a misunderstanding that Om belongs to Hinduism only.

According to Katha Upanishad:

“The goal, which all Vedas declare, which all austerities aim at, and which humans desire when they live a life of conscience, I will tell you briefly, it is AUM.”

“The one syllable is indeed Brahman (Supreme Being). This one syllable is the highest. Whosoever knows this one syllable obtains all that he desires.”

“This is the best support; this is the highest support. Whosoever knows this support is adored in the world of Brahma.”

Where is Om used?

Despite being the most sacred, Aum is the most popular Hindu symbol. Many people wear Om in its symbolic form as a pendant or ring. Some have it printed on the shirts, cups, cars, bikes, walls, etc. People do it because it is a sacred symbol and it would protect them from evil powers and bring good luck. Some people also do it for the sake of fashion. Om and Omkar are very popular Hindu male baby names. Many social, spiritual, and political organizations have Om in their names.