Significance of Bijamantra

Bijamantra is a term in several spiritual contexts, primarily referring to seed sounds or mantras used in meditation and rituals to connect worshippers with divine energies. In Vaishnavism, it highlights the importance of specific mantras like 'Om namo bhagavate vasudevaya' for spiritual practices. It also helps channel spiritual energy in different traditions like Yoga and Shaktism. Bijamantras embody the essence of deities and are believed to hold mystical significance, serving as powerful tools for invoking spiritual attributes, enhancing meditation, and facilitating rituals.

In Dutch: Bijamantra; In German: Bijamantra; In Finnish: Bijamantra; In Spanish: Bijamantra

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Bijamantra'

Buddhism Books

Bijamantra in Buddhism is a six-syllabled mantra that invokes the Dhyani-Buddhas, embodying their essence within certain practices, reflecting deep spiritual significance and connection in Buddhist traditions.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: The gods of northern Buddhism

(1) A six-syllabled mantra used in invocation of the Dhyani-Buddhas in some Buddhist practices, thought to embody their essence.[1]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Hindu concept of 'Bijamantra'

Hinduism Books

Bijamantra in Hinduism refers to seed sounds or syllables used in rituals and meditations to invoke divine energies, encapsulating the essence of deities, and often believed to hold mystical and transformative power in spiritual practices.

Significance in Shaktism (Shakta philosophy):
Shaktism Books

From: Shakti and Shakta

(1) Seed Mantra given during initiation which is central to the Sadhana practice.[2] (2) A fundamental type of Mantra that is often monosyllabic and carries the essence or seed of particular powers associated with deities.[3] (3) Seed sounds used in rituals and meditations, significant in the Tantrik practice of invoking divine energies.[4]

Shakta or Shaktism (shaktism) represents a tradition of Hinduism where the Goddess (Devi) is revered and worshipped. Shakta literature includes a range of scriptures, including various Agamas and Tantras, although its roots may be traced back to the Vedas.

Significance in Yoga (school of philosophy):
Yoga Books

From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)

(1) A seed sound used in meditative practices to help channel energies, such as 'Hum'.[5]

Yoga is originally considered a branch of Hindu philosophy (astika), but both ancient and modern Yoga combine the physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga teaches various physical techniques also known as asanas (postures), used for various purposes (eg., meditation, contemplation, relaxation).

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Chaitanya Mangala

(1) A seed sound used in meditation, specifically ‘Om namo bhagavate vasudevaya,’ which is central to Dhruva's spiritual practice.[6]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

The concept of Bijamantra in local and regional sources

History Books

Bijamantra denotes a powerful symbol or sound in Indian spirituality, embodying concentrated energy and intent. It represents a fundamental element in artistic expression, highlighting the profound connection between spirituality and creativity.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A symbol or sound representing a seed of energy in Indian spirituality, signifying the depth of concentration and purpose in artistic expression.[7]

Plural form: Bijamantras.