Om Namo Narayanaya is a Sanskrit Mantra or hymn. This ancient Mantra features in both the Tarasara Upanishad and the Sama Veda. Though it has many interpretations, it is commonly regarded as a tool for achieving self-realization and oneness with the Divine. As a means of humbling the ego, the Vedic tradition recommends that one who wishes to subdue the ego, should recite the Mantra 108 times, twice a day, for 40 days. After chanting it, one should sit in silence for at least ten minutes. According to the Sama Veda, Om Namo Narayanaya Mantra was taught by Vedic seers to those who came to them seeking wisdom. According to the Tarasara Upanishad, the Mantra helps to unify individual and universal consciousness. Another interpretation comes from its Sanskrit roots. ‘Nara’ means ‘water’ and ‘anaya’ means ‘resting place’ or ‘shelter’. Hence, Narayanaya represents the Hindu god, Vishnu, who rests on water. The Tarasara Upanishad says that those who chant this Mantra will reach Vaikuntha, which is the abode of Vishnu.
