Significance of Hum

Hum, as described in the Purana, signifies a potent mantra that embodies reverence and a profound connection with Lord Shiva. It also represents a powerful term utilized by Shiva, the Supreme Consumer, symbolizing his capability to annihilate adversaries. This dual significance highlights Hum as both a spiritual expression and a manifestation of divine strength.1
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Synonyms: Murmur, Melody, Chant, Sound, Thrum

In Dutch: Neuriën; In Finnish: Hyräillä; In Spanish: Tararear; In German: Summen

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

Buddhist concept of 'Hum'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Hum symbolizes the unity of dualities, representing both material offerings and the essence of appearance and emptiness, while embodying the non-dual nature of male and female consorts.

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: The Great Chariot

(1) A seed syllable used in visualization during meditation, symbolizing the emanation of light and representing a crucial aspect of the inconceivable stage.[1] (2) A specific mantra used in meditation that signifies the essence of the practice and the arising of awareness.[2]

Hindu concept of 'Hum'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Hum" represents a potent mantra signifying reverence for Lord Shiva and embodies his power to annihilate foes, reflecting a divine connection and the Supreme Consumer's strength.

Significance in Shilpashastra (iconography):
Shilpashastra Books

From: Manasara (English translation)

(1) A significant figure mentioned, symbolizing certain attributes of power and potency; her description includes a variety of adornments.[3]

Shilpashastra represents the ancient Indian science (shastra) of creative arts (shilpa) such as sculpture, iconography and painting. Closely related to Vastushastra (architecture), they often share the same literature.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) A word of power used by the Supreme Consumer (Shiva) that symbolizes his ability to destroy the enemies.[4]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation

(1) The sound produced by the bees, creating a lively atmosphere but signifying distraction from the speaker's distress.[5]

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’).