Om Natarajaya Namah
This mantra is a reverence to Lord Shiva as Nataraja. It honors Shiva as the cosmic dancer and lord of creation, preservation, and dissolution. Chanting invokes his divine presence and blessings.
Mantra
Hindi
ॐ नटराजाय नमः
English
Om Natarajaya Namah
Meaning
The mantra 'Om Natarajaya Namah' is a salutation to Lord Shiva in his form as Nataraja. 'Om' is the primal sound of the universe. 'Nataraja' refers to Shiva as the 'King of Dancers' or 'Lord of the Dance', depicting his cosmic dance (Tandava) which symbolizes the cycles of creation, preservation, and dissolution of the universe. 'Namah' signifies respectful obeisance or salutation. Thus, the mantra means 'Salutations to Lord Nataraja' or 'I bow to the Lord of the Dance'.
Method of Chanting
Time: This mantra can be chanted at any time. Traditionally, it is often recited during morning prayers or during meditation sessions dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Count: It is common practice to chant mantras in multiples of 108. Using a mala (rosary) of 108 beads can assist in keeping count.
Discipline: Sit in a comfortable posture with a calm mind. Focus on the form of Lord Nataraja or the sound of the mantra itself. Chanting can be done silently, whispered, or aloud. Maintain a respectful and devotional attitude throughout the practice.
Clarifications
The Nataraja form of Shiva symbolizes divine energy in motion, representing the eternal cosmic dance of creation and destruction. Chanting this mantra is an act of acknowledging and aligning with this fundamental rhythm of existence. It is not intended to seek specific material gains but rather to foster spiritual understanding, inner balance, and devotion.