Om namo narayanaya ashtakshar mahatmya | ॐ नमो नारायणाय अष्टाक्षरमाहात्म्यम् | Om namo narayan mantra | Om Namo narayanaya mantra benefits| Ashtakshar mantra | Om Namo Narayanaya gives liberation from the cycle of birth and death and reach the supreme abode of Vishnu| bestower of all kinds of benefits, such as liberation, wealth, progeny, knowledge, fame, and devotion| destroyer of all sins and fears, and the protector from all dangers and enemies| provide devotees six types of prosperity (shad-aishvarya) such as longevity, wealth, children, cattle, knowledge, and fame| Releases the most sinful persons from the bondage of karma and grant them salvation| Bestows success, perfection , auspiciousness in all the fields of life
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The glory of this mantra is spoken by sage Vyasa to his son and disciple Shuka in the Ashtakshara Mahatmya, a chapter from the Narasimha Purana that extols the greatness of the eight-syllable mantra of Lord Vishnu: “Om Namo Narayanaya”. and who reveals the secret of the mantra to his disciples and says that it is the best among all mantras. He also says that by chanting this mantra, one can attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death and reach the supreme abode of Vishnu1This mantra is said to be the essence of all Vedas and scriptures, and the bestower of all kinds of benefits, such as liberation, wealth, progeny, knowledge, fame, and devotion. It is also said to be the destroyer of all sins and fears, and the protector from all dangers and enemies. Those who chant this mantra with faith and devotion are said to attain the supreme abode of Lord Vishnu, who is the source of all existence and the supreme personality of Godhead.this mantra is the highest goal of human life, the ultimate destination of the soul, and the most sublime truth hidden in the Vedas. By chanting this mantra, one can realize the supreme Brahman, who is identical with Lord Vishnu, and attain the state of bliss and freedom from the cycle of birth and death. This mantra is the most precious treasure of the Vedic wisdom, and the most powerful means of attaining God-realization.this mantra was given by Lord Vishnu himself for the benefit of his devotees and the mankind, and therefore it is the most authentic and authoritative mantra. The Brahmanas, who are the custodians of the Vedic knowledge, should always keep this mantra in their mind and recite it with reverence and love. By doing so, they will please Lord Vishnu and obtain his grace and blessings.Devotees should chant this mantra before and after performing any action, such as charity, fire sacrifice, or pilgrimage. By doing so, they will purify their mind and body, and become focused and calm. They will also invoke the grace and presence of Lord Vishnu in their activities, and achieve success and auspiciousness. They should chant this mantra at least a thousand times, or more if possible, with sincerity and love.By doing so, the devotee will purify his mind and body, and please Lord Vishnu with his devotion. He will also receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu and achieve his desired goals.This mantra is so powerful and merciful that it can free even the most sinful persons from the bondage of karma and grant them salvation. The only condition is that they should chant this mantra with a sincere and pure heart, and remember Lord Vishnu as their supreme goal and refuge. By doing so, they will experience the grace and love of Lord Vishnu and become eligible for his eternal service.This is the most secret among the secrets, the eight-syllable mantra beginning with Om. It bestows longevity, wealth, children, cattle, knowledge, and great fame.This verse also reveals the secret nature of this mantra, which is not easily accessible to the common people. It is only revealed by the grace of Lord Vishnu to his sincere devotees, who are qualified to receive it. By chanting this mantra, the devotee obtains all the desirable things in this world, such as longevity, wealth, children, cattle, knowledge, and fame. These are the six types of prosperity (shad-aishvarya) that are enjoyed by the gods and the devotees of Lord Vishnu. By chanting this mantra, the devotee also becomes eligible for the higher prosperity, which is the eternal service of Lord Vishnu in his abode.
One who chants this mantra of Narayana, this mantra that removes the fear of death, This is the supreme mantra among all mantras, this is the deity among all deities.This verse also praises this mantra as the highest and the most powerful among all mantras, and the most worshipful among all deities. By chanting this mantra, the devotee becomes free from the fear of death, which is the root cause of all suffering and bondage. The devotee also becomes dear to Lord Vishnu, who is the supreme God and the lord of all gods. By chanting this mantra, the devotee attains the ultimate goal of human life, which is to realize one’s true nature as the eternal servant of Lord Vishnu.The thieves, the lowly, and the others do not approach the one who chants this mantra. The one who is single-minded, undisturbed, devoted to Vishnu, and firm in his vow.This verse also describes the power of this mantra to protect the devotee from the evil influences and disturbances that may come from the external world. The thieves, the lowly, and the others are the symbols of the various temptations and distractions that may lure the devotee away from his spiritual path. By chanting this mantra with single-mindedness, undisturbedness, devotion to Vishnu, and firmness in his vow, the devotee becomes immune to their attacks and enjoys the peace and protection of Lord Vishnu. This is the mantra that bestows perfection, the eight-syllable mantra that one should chant without laziness. The bad dreams, demons, ghosts, snakes, and brahmarakshasas (a type of evil spirit) do not approach the one who chants this mantra.This verse also describes the power of this mantra to ward off the evil influences and disturbances that may afflict the devotee in his sleep or waking state. The bad dreams, demons, ghosts, snakes, and brahmarakshasas are the symbols of the various obstacles and enemies that may hinder the spiritual progress of the devotee. By chanting this mantra with diligence and concentration, the devotee becomes immune to their attacks and enjoys the peace and protection of Lord Vishnu.
श्रीशुक उवाच —
किं जपन् मुच्यते तात सततं विष्णुतत्परः ।
संसारदुःखात् सर्वेषां हिताय वद मे पितः ॥ १॥
Shri Shuk Uvaach —
Kim Japan muchyate taat sat-tam vishnu tatparah
sansaar dukhaat sarveshaam hitaaya vad me pitah॥ 1॥
Śrī Śhuka said: O father, what is the mantra that one who is always devoted to Lord Vishnu should chant to get liberation from the miseries of material existence? Please tell me for the benefit of all living beings.॥ १॥
व्यास उवाच —
अष्टाक्षरं प्रवक्ष्यामि मन्त्राणां मन्त्रमुत्तमम् ।
यं जपन् मुच्यते मर्त्यो जन्मसंसारबन्धनात् ॥ २॥
Vyas Uvaach-
Ashtaaksharam pravakshyami mantraanaam mantra muttmam
yam japan muchyate martyo janmsansarbandhnaat ॥ 2॥
I will tell you the supreme mantra of all mantras, consisting of eight syllables. By chanting it, a mortal gets freed from the bondage of birth and death. ॥ 2॥
हृत्पुण्डरीकमध्यस्थं शङ्खचक्रगदाधरम् ।
एकाग्रमनसा ध्यात्वा विष्णुं कुर्याज्जपं द्विजः ॥ ३॥
Hatpundareekmadhyastham shankhchakragadaadharam
ekaagramansa dhyatva vishnum kuryaajjapam dvijah ॥ 3॥
One who is a Brahmin (dvija) and is devoted to Lord Vishnu should meditate on Him with a one-pointed mind, who resides in the lotus of the heart (hrit-pundarika) and holds the conch (shankha), the discus (chakra) and the mace (gada) in His hands.3
एकान्ते निर्जनस्थाने विष्णवग्रे वा जलान्तिके ।
जपेदष्टाक्षरं मन्त्रं चित्ते विष्णुं निधाय वै ॥ ४॥
Ekaante nirjansthane vishnavagre vaa jalaantike
japedashtaaksharam mantram chitte vishnum nidhaya vai ॥ 4॥
One should chant the eight-syllable mantra in a secluded place, either in front of a Vishnu temple or near water, while meditating on Vishnu in one’s mind.4
अष्टाक्षरस्य मन्त्रस्य ऋषिर्नारायणः स्वयम् ।
छन्दश्च दैवी गायत्री परमात्मा च देवता ॥ ५॥
Ashtaaksharasya mantrasya rishirnarayanah svayam
chhandashch daivi gayatri parmatma ch devta ॥ 5॥
The sage (rishi) of the eight-syllable mantra is Lord Narayana Himself. The meter (chhand) is the divine Gayatri, and the deity (devata) is the Supreme soul. (This verse also describes the components of the mantra, such as the sage, the meter, and the deity, which are important for the proper recitation and understanding of the mantra. The sage is the one who reveals the mantra, the meter is the rhythm and melody of the mantra, and the deity is the object of the mantra. By knowing these components, one can invoke the mantra with more reverence and concentration. The verse also implies that the mantra is non-different from Lord Narayana Himself, who is the source of the Gayatri meter and the Supreme Soul of all beings.) ॥ 5 ॥
शुक्लवर्णं च ॐकारं नकारं रक्तमुच्यते ।
मोकारं वर्णतः कृष्णं नाकारं रक्तमुच्यते ॥ ६॥
Shuklavarnam ch omkaaram nakaaram raktmuchyate
mokaaram varnatah krishnam naakaaram raktmuchyate ॥ 6 ॥
The syllable Om is white in color, the syllable Na is red, the syllable Mo is black by nature, and the syllable Na is red again. ( This verse also describes the colors of the first four syllables of the mantra, which are said to represent the four aspects of Lord Vishnu: Om is the symbol of the supreme Brahman, Na is the symbol of the cosmic creator, Mo is the symbol of the cosmic preserver, and Na is the symbol of the cosmic destroyer. By meditating on these colors, one can invoke the power and grace of Lord Vishnu in one’s mind.) ॥ 6॥
राकारं कुङ्कुमाभं तु यकारं पीतमुच्यते ।
णाकारमञ्जनाभं तु यकारं बहुवर्णकम् ॥ ७॥
Raakaram kumkumaabham tu yakaaram peetmuchyate
Naakaarmanjanaabham tu yakaaram bahuvarnkam ॥ 7॥
The syllable Ra is of the color of vermilion, the syllable Ya is yellow, the syllable Na is of the color of collyrium, and the syllable Ya is of many colors. This verse also describes the colors of the last four syllables of the mantra, which are said to represent the four aspects of Lord Vishnu: Ra is the symbol of the cosmic sustainer, Ya is the symbol of the cosmic controller, Na is the symbol of the cosmic destroyer, and Ya is the symbol of the cosmic revealer. By meditating on these colors, one can invoke the power and grace of Lord Vishnu in one’s mind॥ 7॥
ॐ नमो नारायणायेति मन्त्रः सर्वार्थसाधकः ।
भक्तानां जपतां तात स्वर्गमोक्षफलप्रदः ।
वेदानां प्रणवेनैष सिद्धो मन्त्रः सनातनः ॥ ८॥
Om namo narayanayeti mantrah sarvarth sadhkah
bhaktaanaam japtaam taat svargmokshfalpradah
vedaanaam pranvenaish siddho mantrah sanatanah ॥ 8॥
This mantra, consisting of Om Namo Narayanaya, is the fulfiller of all desires. O son, it bestows the fruits of heaven and liberation to those devotees who chant it. This mantra is eternal and perfected by the sacred syllable Om, which is the essence of all Vedas॥ 8॥
सर्वपापहरः श्रीमान् सर्वमन्त्रेषु चोत्तमः ।
एनमष्टाक्षरं मन्त्रं जपन्नारायणं स्मरेत् ॥ ९॥
sarvpaapharah shrimaan sarvmantreshu chottamah
enmashtaaksharam mantram japannarayam smaret॥ 9॥
He who is the remover of all sins, the glorious one, the best among all mantras, One should chant this eight-syllable mantra and remember Narayana॥ 9॥
संध्यावसाने सततं सर्वपापैः प्रमुच्यते ।
एष एव परो मन्त्र एष एव परं तपः ॥ १०॥
sandhyavasaane sat-tam sarvpapaih pramuchyate
esh ev paro mantra esh ev param tapah॥ १०॥
One who always chants this supreme mantra at the end of the sandhya (twilight) times, is freed from all sins. This is the best of all mantras, this is the best of all austerities॥ 12॥
एष एव परो मोक्ष एष स्वर्ग उदाहृतः ।
सर्ववेदरहस्येभ्यः सार एष समुद्धॄतः ॥ ११॥
esh ev paro moksh esh svarg udaahritah
sarvvedrahasyebhyah saar esh samud- dhritah॥ 11॥
This is the supreme liberation, this is the heaven that is spoken of, This is the essence extracted from all the secrets of the Vedas. This verse also declares that this mantra is the highest goal of human life, the ultimate destination of the soul, and the most sublime truth hidden in the Vedas. By chanting this mantra, one can realize the supreme Brahman, who is identical with Lord Vishnu, and attain the state of bliss and freedom from the cycle of birth and death. This mantra is the most precious treasure of the Vedic wisdom, and the most powerful means of attaining God-realization॥ 12॥
विष्णुना वैष्णवानां हि हिताय मनुजां पुरा ।
एवं ज्ञात्वा ततो विप्रो ह्यष्टाक्षरमिमं स्मरेत् ॥ १२॥
vishnuna vaishnavaanaam hi hitaya manujaam pura
evam gyaatva tato vipro hyashtaakshar smaret ॥ 12॥
For the welfare of the Vaishnavas and the human beings, Lord Vishnu himself revealed this eight-syllable mantra in the past. Knowing this, the learned Brahmana should always remember this mantra. (This verse also states that this mantra was given by Lord Vishnu himself for the benefit of his devotees and the mankind, and therefore it is the most authentic and authoritative mantra. The Brahmanas, who are the custodians of the Vedic knowledge, should always keep this mantra in their mind and recite it with reverence and love. By doing so, they will please Lord Vishnu and obtain his grace and blessings॥ 12॥
स्नात्वा शुचिः शुचौ देशे जपेत् पापविशुद्धये ।
जपे दाने च होमे च गमने ध्यानपर्वसु ॥ १३॥
snanatvaa shuchih shuchau deshe japet paapvishuddhye
jape daane ch home ch gamne dhyanparvasu॥ 13॥
Having bathed and become pure, in a pure place, one should recite (the mantra) for the purification from sins. At the time of recitation, charity, fire sacrifice, and going (to holy places), one should be absorbed in meditation. (This shloka is from the Narasimha Purana, chapter 17, which describes the greatness of the eight-syllable mantra “Om Namo Narayanaya”. This mantra is said to be the best among all mantras, the destroyer of all sins, the giver of heaven and liberation, and the essence of all Vedas. By reciting this mantra with devotion and concentration, one can attain various benefits and ultimately reach the supreme abode of Lord Vishnu.) ॥ 13॥
जपेन्नारायणं मन्त्रं कर्मपूर्वे परे तथा ।
जपेत्सहस्रं नियुतं शुचिर्भूत्वा समाहितः ॥ १४॥
japennarayanam mantram karmpoorve pare tatha
japetsahasram niyutam shuchirbhootva samaahitah॥ 14॥
One should chant the mantra of Narayana, before and after performing any action. One should chant a thousand times, becoming pure and composed.(This verse also instructs the devotees to chant this mantra before and after performing any action, such as charity, fire sacrifice, or pilgrimage. By doing so, they will purify their mind and body, and become focused and calm. They will also invoke the grace and presence of Lord Vishnu in their activities, and achieve success and auspiciousness. They should chant this mantra at least a thousand times, or more if possible, with sincerity and love.) ॥ १४॥
मासि मासि तु द्वादश्यां विष्णुभक्तो द्विजोत्तमः ।
स्नात्वा शुचिर्जपेद्यस्तु नमो नारायणं शतम् ॥ १५॥
maasi maasi tu dvadashyaam vishnubhakto dvijottamah
snanatva shuchirjapedyastu namo narayanam shatam ॥ 15॥
Every month, on the day of Dvadashi (the twelfth day of the lunar fortnight), the devotee of Vishnu, the best among the Brahmanas, Having bathed and become pure, should chant the mantra “Om Namo Narayanaya” a hundred times.This verse also prescribes the observance of a monthly vow of chanting this mantra on the auspicious day of Dvadashi, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. By doing so, the devotee will purify his mind and body, and please Lord Vishnu with his devotion. He will also receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu and achieve his desired goals॥ 15॥
स गच्छेत् परमं देवं नारायणमनामयम् ।
गन्धपुष्पादिभिर्विष्णुमनेनाराध्य यो जपेत् ॥ १६॥
sa gacchet parmam devam narayana-manamayam
gandhpushpaadibhirvishnumanenaaradhya yo japet ॥ 16॥
He who chants this mantra and worships Vishnu with fragrances, flowers, and other offerings, goes to the supreme God Narayana, who is free from all defects ॥ 16॥
महापातकयुक्तोऽपि मुच्यते नात्र संशयः ।
हृदि कृत्वा हरिं देवं मन्त्रमेनं तु यो जपेत् ॥ १७॥
mahapaatakyuktoapi muchyate naatra sanshayah
hridi kritva harim devam mantramenam tu yo japet॥ 17॥
Even one who is afflicted with great sins, is liberated without a doubt. If he chants this mantra, keeping Hari, the Lord, in his heart.(This verse also assures the devotees that this mantra is so powerful and merciful that it can free even the most sinful persons from the bondage of karma and grant them salvation. The only condition is that they should chant this mantra with a sincere and pure heart, and remember Lord Vishnu as their supreme goal and refuge. By doing so, they will experience the grace and love of Lord Vishnu and become eligible for his eternal service ॥ 17॥
सर्वपापविशुद्धात्मा स गच्छेत् परमां गतिम् ।
प्रथमेन तु लक्षेण आत्मशुद्धिर्भविष्यति ॥ १८॥
sarvpaapvishuddhatma sa gacchet parmaam gatim
prathmen tu lakshen aatmshuddhirbhavishyati॥ 18॥
The one who has become pure from all sins, goes to the supreme destination. By chanting the first hundred thousand times, one attains purity of the self.(This verse also explains the gradual effects of chanting this mantra in different stages. The first stage is the purification of the self, which is achieved by chanting the mantra a hundred thousand times. This means that the devotee becomes free from the impurities of the mind and body, and attains a state of peace and clarity. The next stages are described in the following verses, which include the attainment of various siddhis (powers), the heavenly realm, the proximity of Lord Vishnu, the pure knowledge, the firm devotion, the realization of one’s true nature, and the final liberation.) ॥ 18॥
द्वितीयेन तु लक्षेण मनुसिद्धिमवाप्नुयात् ।
तृतीयेन तु लक्षेण स्वर्गलोकमवाप्नुयात् ॥ १९॥
dvitiyen tu lakshen manusiddhimavaapnuyaat
tritiyen tu lakshen svarglokmavaapnuyaat ॥ 19॥
By chanting the second hundred thousand times, one attains perfection of the mind. By chanting the third hundred thousand times, one attains the heavenly realm.( This verse also explains the gradual effects of chanting this mantra in different stages. The second stage is the perfection of the mind, which is achieved by chanting the mantra two hundred thousand times. This means that the devotee becomes free from the fluctuations and disturbances of the mind, and attains a state of concentration and calmness. The third stage is the attainment of the heavenly realm, which is achieved by chanting the mantra three hundred thousand times. This means that the devotee enjoys the pleasures and comforts of the celestial world, and associates with the gods and goddesses. The next stages are described in the following verses, which include the proximity of Lord Vishnu, the pure knowledge, the firm devotion, the realization of one’s true nature, and the final liberation.) ॥ 19॥
चतुर्थेन तु लक्षेण हरेः सामीप्यमाप्नुयात् ।
पञ्चमेन तु लक्षेण निर्मलं ज्ञानमाप्नुयात् ॥ २०॥
chaturthen tu lakshen hareh saameepyamaapnuyaat
panchmen tu lakshen nirmalam gyaanmaapnuyaat ॥ 20॥
By chanting the fourth hundred thousand times, one attains the proximity of Hari (Lord Vishnu). By chanting the fifth hundred thousand times, one attains the pure knowledge.(This verse also explains the gradual effects of chanting this mantra in different stages. The fourth stage is the attainment of the proximity of Hari, which is achieved by chanting the mantra four hundred thousand times. This means that the devotee becomes close to Lord Vishnu and experiences his grace and love. The fifth stage is the attainment of the pure knowledge, which is achieved by chanting the mantra five hundred thousand times. This means that the devotee becomes free from the ignorance and illusion, and attains the true understanding of the self, the Lord, and the relation between them. The next stages are described in the following verses, which include the firm devotion, the realization of one’s true nature, and the final liberation.) ॥ 20॥
तथा षष्ठेन लक्षेण भवेद्विष्णौ स्थिरा मतिः ।
सप्तमेन तु लक्षेण स्वरूपं प्रतिपद्यते ॥ २१॥
tatha shashthen lakshen bhavedvishnau sthira matih
saptmen tu lakshen svaroopam pratipadhyate॥ 21 ॥
By chanting the sixth hundred thousand times, one attains a firm mind in Vishnu. By chanting the seventh hundred thousand times, one realizes one’s own true nature.( This verse also explains the gradual effects of chanting this mantra in different stages. The sixth stage is the attainment of a firm mind in Vishnu, which is achieved by chanting the mantra six hundred thousand times. This means that the devotee becomes free from the doubts and distractions of the mind, and attains a state of steadfastness and devotion to Lord Vishnu. The seventh stage is the realization of one’s own true nature, which is achieved by chanting the mantra seven hundred thousand times. This means that the devotee becomes free from the identification with the body and mind, and attains the true knowledge of one’s self as the eternal spirit, the part and parcel of Lord Vishnu. The next stage is described in the following verse, which is the final liberation.) ॥ 21॥
अष्टमेन तु लक्षेण निर्वाणमधिगच्छति ।
स्वस्वधर्मसमायुक्तो जपं कुर्याद् द्विजोत्तमः ॥ २२॥
ashtamen tu lakshen nirvanmadhigacchati
svadharmsamayukto japam kryaad dvijottamah॥ 22॥
By chanting the eighth hundred thousand times, one attains nirvana (liberation). One who is endowed with one’s own duty and performs this mantra, is the best among the twice-born ( Dvijas). (This verse also explains the final effect of chanting this mantra in different stages. The eighth stage is the attainment of nirvana, which is achieved by chanting the mantra eight hundred thousand times. This means that the devotee becomes free from the cycle of birth and death, and attains the state of eternal bliss and peace. The verse also advises the devotee to perform this mantra along with one’s own duty, which is prescribed by the scriptures according to one’s caste, stage of life, and temperament. By doing so, the devotee becomes the best among the dvijas, the twice-born, who are the members of the three higher castes (Brahmins, Kshatriyas, and Vaishyas) who undergo the sacred thread ceremony (upanayana) as a second birth. The verse implies that the mantra is not only meant for the renunciants, but also for the householders and other social classes, who can attain liberation by following their own duty and chanting this mantra.) ॥ 22॥
एतत् सिद्धिकरं मन्त्रमष्टाक्षरमतन्द्रितः ।
दुःस्वप्नासुरपैशाचा उरगा ब्रह्मराक्षसाः ॥ २३॥
etat siddhikaram mantramashtaaksharmatandritah
duhsvapnaasurpaishachaa urgaa brahmrakshasaah॥ 23॥
This is the mantra that bestows perfection, the eight-syllable mantra that one should chant without laziness. The bad dreams, demons, ghosts, snakes, and brahmarakshasas (a type of evil spirit) do not approach the one who chants this mantra.( This verse also describes the power of this mantra to ward off the evil influences and disturbances that may afflict the devotee in his sleep or waking state. The bad dreams, demons, ghosts, snakes, and brahmarakshasas are the symbols of the various obstacles and enemies that may hinder the spiritual progress of the devotee. By chanting this mantra with diligence and concentration, the devotee becomes immune to their attacks and enjoys the peace and protection of Lord Vishnu.) ॥ 23॥
जापिनं नोपसर्पन्ति चौरक्षुद्राधयस्तथा ।
एकाग्रमनसाव्यग्रो विष्णुभक्तो दृढव्रतः ॥ २४॥
jaapinam nopsarpanti chaurkshudradhayastatha
ekaagramansaavyagro vishnubhakto dridhvratah॥ 24॥
The thieves, the lowly, and the others do not approach the one who chants this mantra. The one who is single-minded, undisturbed, devoted to Vishnu, and firm in his vow.(This verse also describes the power of this mantra to protect the devotee from the evil influences and disturbances that may come from the external world. The thieves, the lowly, and the others are the symbols of the various temptations and distractions that may lure the devotee away from his spiritual path. By chanting this mantra with single-mindedness, undisturbedness, devotion to Vishnu, and firmness in his vow, the devotee becomes immune to their attacks and enjoys the peace and protection of Lord Vishnu.) ॥ 24॥
जपेन्नारायणं मन्त्रमेतन्मृत्युभयापहम् ।
मन्त्राणां परमो मन्त्रो देवतानां च दैवतम् ॥ २५॥
japennarayanam mantrametanmrityubhayaapaham
mantraanaam parmo mantro devtaanaam ch daivtam ॥ 25॥
One who chants this mantra of Narayana, this mantra that removes the fear of death, This is the supreme mantra among all mantras, this is the deity among all deities.( This verse also praises this mantra as the highest and the most powerful among all mantras, and the most worshipful among all deities. By chanting this mantra, the devotee becomes free from the fear of death, which is the root cause of all suffering and bondage. The devotee also becomes dear to Lord Vishnu, who is the supreme God and the lord of all gods. By chanting this mantra, the devotee attains the ultimate goal of human life, which is to realize one’s true nature as the eternal servant of Lord Vishnu.) ॥ 25॥
गुह्यानां परमं गुह्यमोंकाराद्यक्षराष्टकम् ।
आयुष्यं धनपुत्रांश्च पशून् विद्यां महद्यशः ॥ २६॥
guhyaanaam parmam guhyamomkaaraadhyaksharaashtakam
aayushyam dhanputraamashch pashoon vidhyaam mahadh ॥ २६॥
This is the most secret among the secrets, the eight-syllable mantra beginning with Om. It bestows longevity, wealth, children, cattle, knowledge, and great fame.( This verse also reveals the secret nature of this mantra, which is not easily accessible to the common people. It is only revealed by the grace of Lord Vishnu to his sincere devotees, who are qualified to receive it. By chanting this mantra, the devotee obtains all the desirable things in this world, such as longevity, wealth, children, cattle, knowledge, and fame. These are the six types of prosperity (shad-aishvarya) that are enjoyed by the gods and the devotees of Lord Vishnu. By chanting this mantra, the devotee also becomes eligible for the higher prosperity, which is the eternal service of Lord Vishnu in his abode.) ॥ 26॥
धर्मार्थकाममोक्षांश्च लभते च जपन्नरः ।
एतत् सत्यं च धर्म्यं च वेदश्रुतिनिदर्शनात् ॥ २७॥
dharmarthkaam-mokshaamashchlabhte labhte ch jappanarah
etat satyam ch dharmyam ch vedshrutinidarshnaat ॥ 27॥
The one who chants this mantra attains the four goals of life: dharma (righteousness), artha (wealth), kama (desire), and moksha (liberation). This is true and virtuous, as shown by the Vedas and the scriptures.(This verse also summarizes the power and the glory of this mantra, which grants the devotee all the four goals of human life, as prescribed by the Hindu tradition. These are dharma, which is the moral and ethical duty of the individual; artha, which is the material and economic well-being of the individual and the society; kama, which is the fulfillment of the legitimate desires and pleasures of the individual; and moksha, which is the liberation from the cycle of birth and death, and the attainment of the eternal bliss and peace in the presence of Lord Vishnu. The verse also asserts that this is not a mere claim, but a verifiable truth, as evidenced by the Vedas and the scriptures, which are the authoritative sources of knowledge and wisdom for the Hindus.) 27
एतत् सिद्धिकरं नृणां मन्त्ररूपं न संशयः ।
ऋषयः पितरो देवाः सिद्धास्त्वसुरराक्षसाः ॥ २८॥
etat siddhikaram nrinaam mantraroopam na sanshayah
rishyah pitro devaah siddhaastvasur-raakshasaah॥ 28॥
This is the mantra form of the supreme accomplishment for humans, there is no doubt about it. The sages, the ancestors, the gods, the siddhas, the asuras and the rakshasas have attained this by chanting it॥ 28॥
एतदेव परं जप्त्वा परां सिद्धिमितो गताः ।
ज्ञात्वा यस्त्वात्मनः कालं शास्त्रान्तरविधानतः ।
अन्तकाले जपन्नेति तद्विष्णोः परमं पदम् ॥ २९॥
etdevparam japatva paraam siddhimito gataah
gyaatvaa yastvaatmanah kaalam shaastraantarvidhaanatah
antkaale japanneti tadvishnoh parmam padam॥ २९॥
Having chanted this supreme mantra, they have attained the highest perfection from this world. Knowing the time of their own death, according to the rules of other scriptures, they chant this mantra at the end of their life and attain the supreme abode of Vishnu.(This shloka is the last verse of the Narasimha Purana, chapter 17, which describes the glory of the eight-syllable mantra “Om Namo Narayanaya”. This mantra is said to be the essence of all the Vedas and the bestower of liberation, happiness, wealth, health and fame.) ॥ 29॥
नारायणाय नम इत्ययमेव सत्यं
संसारघोरविषसंहरणाय मन्त्रः ।
शृण्वन्तु भव्यमतयो मुदितास्त्वरागा
उच्चैस्तरामुपदिशाम्यहमूर्ध्वबाहुः ॥ ३०॥
narayanaya nam ityayamev satyam
sansarghorvishsanharnaaya mantra
shranvantu bhavyamatyo muditaastvaraagaa
ucchaistaramupdishaamyahmoordhv baahuh॥ 30॥
Salutations to Narayana, this alone is the truth. This mantra destroys the poison of the terrible samsara. Let the noble-minded ones listen with joy and eagerness. I proclaim this loudly with my arms raised high.30
भूत्वोर्ध्वबाहुरद्याहं सत्यपूर्वं ब्रवीम्यहम् ।
हे पुत्र शिष्याः शृणुत न मन्त्रोऽष्टाक्षरात्परः ॥ ३१॥
bhootvordhvbaahuradhyaaham satyapoorvam braveemyaham
he putra shishyaah shranut na mantroashtaaksharaatparah॥ ३१॥
Having raised my arms upwards, I speak the truth today. O sons, disciples, listen, there is no mantra superior to the eight-syllabled one.31
सत्यं सत्यं पुनः सत्यमुत्क्षिप्य भुजमुच्यते ।
वेदाच्छास्त्रं परं नास्ति न देवः केशवात् परः ॥ ३२॥
satyam satyam punah satya mutkshipya bhujmuchyate
vedaachchaastramparam naasti na devah keshavaat parah ॥ 32॥
It is the truth, the truth, again the truth, raising the arm it is said There is no scripture superior to the Vedas, there is no god superior to Kesava.(This shloka is from the Shiva Purana, chapter 10, verse 12, where Lord Shiva praises the Vedas and Lord Vishnu (Kesava) as the supreme sources of knowledge and devotion. He says that he speaks this truth with his right arm raised as a solemn oath. He also says that by studying the Vedas and worshipping Vishnu, one can attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death.) ॥ 32॥
आलोच्य सर्वशास्त्राणि विचार्य च पुनः पुनः ।
इदमेकं सुनिष्पन्नं ध्येयो नारायणः सदा ॥ ३३॥
aalochya sarvshaastraani vichaarya ch punah punah
idmekam sunishpannam dhyeyo narayanah sada॥ 33॥
After examining all the scriptures and deliberating again and again, this one thing is clearly established: Narayana should always be meditated upon.This shloka is from the Garuda Purana, Achara Kanda, chapter 230, verse 1, where Suta, the narrator, tells the listeners the importance of chanting and meditating on the name of Narayana, the supreme Lord Vishnu. He says that this is the essence of all the scriptures and the best way to attain liberation and happiness.॥ 33॥
इत्येतत् सकलं प्रोक्तं शिष्याणां तव पुण्यदम् ।
कथाश्च विविधाः प्रोक्ता मया भज जनार्दनम् ॥ ३४॥
ityetat saklam proktam shishyaanaaam tav punyadam
kathaashch vividhaah proktaa maya bhaj janardanam॥ 34॥
This is all that I have told you, O disciples, for your merit. I have narrated various stories, now worship Janardana.34 (The speaker of this shloka is Vyasa, the sage who compiled the Vedas and the Puranas. He addresses his disciples, such as Suka, and tells them to worship Vishnu (Janardana), the supreme Lord, by chanting his mantra. He also says that he has told them various stories to illustrate the greatness of the mantra and the benefits of chanting it.)॥ 34॥
अष्टाक्षरमिमं मन्त्रं सर्वदुःखविनाशनम् ।
जप पुत्र महाबुद्धे यदि सिद्धिमभीप्ससि ॥ ३५॥
ashtaaksharmimam mantram sarvdukhvinaashnam
jap putra mahabuddhe yadi siddhimbheepsasi॥ 35॥
This eight-lettered mantra is the destroyer of all sorrows. O son, O great wise one, chant it if you desire perfection.
इदं स्तवं व्यासमुखात्तु निस्सृतं
संध्यात्रये ये पुरुषाः पठन्ति ।
ते धौतपाण्डुरपटा इव राजहंसाः
संसारसागरमपेतभयास्तरन्ति ॥ ३६॥
idam stavam vyasmukhaattu nissritam
sandhyatraye ye purushaah pathanti
te dhaupaandurpataa iv raajhansaah
sansaarsaagarampetbhayaastaranti॥ 36॥
This hymn, which has emerged from the mouth of Vyasa, Those who recite it at the three times of the day (dawn, noon and dusk), They become like the royal swans with white and clean feathers, They cross the ocean of samsara (cycle of birth and death) without fear.॥ 36॥
इति श्रीनरसिंहपुराणे अष्टाक्षरमाहात्म्यं नाम सप्तदशोऽध्यायः ॥ १७॥
Benefits of Om Namo Narayanaya Mantra
*By chanting this mantra, one can attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death and reach the supreme abode of Vishnu.
*This mantra is said to be the essence of all Vedas and scriptures, and the bestower of all kinds of benefits, such as liberation, wealth, progeny, knowledge, fame, and devotion.
*It is also said to be the destroyer of all sins and fears, and the protector from all dangers and enemies.
*Those who chant this mantra with faith and devotion are said to attain the supreme abode of Lord Vishnu, who is the source of all existence and the supreme personality of Godhead.
*This mantra is the highest goal of human life, the ultimate destination of the soul, and the most sublime truth hidden in the Vedas.
*By chanting this mantra, one can realize the supreme Brahman, who is identical with Lord Vishnu, and attain the state of bliss and freedom from the cycle of birth and death.
*This mantra is the most precious treasure of the Vedic wisdom, and the most powerful means of attaining God-realization.
*This mantra was given by Lord Vishnu himself for the benefit of his devotees and the mankind, and therefore it is the most authentic and authoritative mantra.
*The Brahmanas, who are the custodians of the Vedic knowledge, should always keep this mantra in their mind and recite it with reverence and love. By doing so, they will please Lord Vishnu and obtain his grace and blessings.
*Devotees should chant this mantra before and after performing any action, such as charity, fire sacrifice, or pilgrimage. By doing so, they will purify their mind and body, and become focused and calm.
*By chanting this mantra devotees will also invoke the grace and presence of Lord Vishnu in their activities, and achieve success and auspiciousness.
*One should chant this mantra at least a thousand times, or more if possible, with sincerity and love.By doing so, the devotee will purify his mind and body and please Lord Vishnu with his devotion.
*One will also receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu and achieve his desired goals.
*This mantra is so powerful and merciful that it can free even the most sinful persons from the bondage of karma and grant them salvation. The only condition is that they should chant this mantra with a sincere and pure heart, and remember Lord Vishnu as their supreme goal and refuge.
*By chanting this mantra chanter will experience the grace and love of Lord Vishnu and become eligible for his eternal service.
*This mantra bestows perfection and success in all the fields.
*This is the most secret among the secrets, the eight-syllable mantra beginning with Om. It bestows longevity, wealth, children, cattle, knowledge, and great fame.
*Continuous chanting of this mantra also reveals the secret nature of this mantra, which is not easily accessible to the common people. It is only revealed by the grace of Lord Vishnu to his sincere devotees, who are qualified to receive it.
*By chanting this mantra, the devotee obtains all the desirable things in this world, such as longevity, wealth, children, cattle, knowledge, and fame. These are the six types of prosperity (shad-aishvarya) that are enjoyed by the gods and the devotees of Lord Vishnu.
*By chanting this mantra, the devotee also becomes eligible for the higher prosperity, which is the eternal service of Lord Vishnu in his abode.
*One can attain various siddhis (powers), the heavenly realm, the proximity of Lord Vishnu, the pure knowledge, the firm devotion, the realization of one’s true nature, and the final liberation by chanting this mantra.
*By chanting the one lakh times, one attains purity of the self i.e the purification of the self. This means that the devotee becomes free from the impurities of the mind and body, and attains a state of peace and clarity.
*By chanting the two lakh or second hundred thousand times, one attains perfection of the mind. This means that the devotee becomes free from the fluctuations and disturbances of the mind, and attains a state of concentration and calmness.
*By chanting the three lakh or third hundred thousand times, one attains the heavenly realm. This means that the devotee enjoys the pleasures and comforts of the celestial world, and associates with the gods and goddesses.
*By chanting the four lakh or fourth hundred thousand times, one attains the proximity of Hari (Lord Vishnu). This means that the devotee becomes close to Lord Vishnu and experiences his grace and love.
*By chanting the five lakh or fifth hundred thousand times, one attains the pure knowledge. This means that the devotee becomes free from the ignorance and illusion, and attains the true understanding of the self, the Lord, and the relation between them.
*By chanting the six lakh or sixth hundred thousand times, one attains a firm mind in Vishnu. This means that the devotee becomes free from the doubts and distractions of the mind, and attains a state of steadfastness and devotion to Lord Vishnu.
*By chanting the seven lakh or seventh hundred thousand times, one realizes one’s own true nature. This means that the devotee becomes free from the identification with the body and mind, and attains the true knowledge of one’s self as the eternal spirit, the part and parcel of Lord Vishnu.
*By chanting the eight lakh or eighth hundred thousand times, one attains nirvana (liberation). One who is endowed with one’s own duty and performs this mantra, is the best among the twice-born ( Dvijas). This means that the devotee becomes free from the cycle of birth and death, and attains the state of eternal bliss and peace.
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