Glossary · Practice
Mantra
मन्त्र
What does Mantra mean?
Mantra comes from 'man' (mind) and 'tra' (instrument) — an instrument of the mind. Repetition (japa) of a mantra anchors attention, purifies thought, and attunes the practitioner to the reality the sound represents.
In the Gita, Krishna identifies himself with the syllable Om and with japa itself: 'Of sacrifices I am japa' (10.25). Verse 8.13 teaches that one who departs from the body chanting Om and remembering him attains the supreme goal.