Sanatana Dharma and its Fundamentals - Prayers for peace invocation and concentration
1. Gana: This term refers to a group, multitude, or category, often representing the followers of Lord Shiva. It can also mean a troop or an assemblage of beings.
2. Pati: This term means "lord" or "leader" or “ one who protects.” (Sanskrit root word ‘Pat’ = to protect)
Thus, "Ganapati" translates to "Lord of the Ganas" or "Leader of the Multitudes." This title is most commonly associated with the Hindu deity Ganesha, who is revered as the remover of obstacles, the patron of arts and sciences, and the deva (one how shines bright) of intellect and wisdom. Ganesha is often depicted with an elephant head, symbolizing wisdom, leadership, unity and understanding.
Ganapati is widely worshipped in various forms and names across India and other regions shaped by Hindu culture.
"Sarasa-vati" (सरसवती) can be interpreted as "the one who possesses flow" or "the one with essence," reflecting her association with the flowing river of knowledge, eloquence, and learning. Sarasvati embodies the free flow of wisdom and consciousness.
A "Guru" (गुरु) is a teacher who dispels ignorance. They are crucial for knowledge transmission, providing guidance, wisdom, and inspiration, preserving traditions, and facilitating personal and spiritual transformation.
Power of Spiritual Mantras
Spiritual mantras, when chanted regularly, can enhance mental clarity, reduce stress, and cultivate a deep sense of inner peace. They help focus the mind, leading to improved concentration and mindfulness. Mantras also align one's vibrational energy, promoting emotional balance and spiritual growth. This practice can create a sense of connection to the divine, encouraging a feeling of oneness with the universe. Additionally, the rhythmic nature of chanting can regulate breathing, supporting physical well-being and relaxation. Overall, mantras serve as a powerful tool for holistic healing and spiritual awakening.
Mantra - Vidya trayam, Ganesha-Saravatī-Guru for knowledge
Ganesha Mantra:
aum!! I request the lord of intelligence,
to clear all difficulties from my path to knowledge
ॐवक्रतुण्डमहाकायसूर्यकोटिसमप्रभ |
निर्विघ्नंकुरुमेदेवसर्वकार्येषुसर्वदा ||
Vakratunda Mahakaya Surya Koti Sama Prabha
Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva Karyesu Sarvada
Sarasvati Mantra:
aum!! salutaions to Sarvati, the abode of all Knowledge
I begin my studies, kindly grant success
ॐ सरस्वतिनमस्तुभ्यंवरदेकामरूपिणि |
विद्यारम्भंकरिष्यामिसिद्धिर्भवतुमेसदा ||
Saraswati Namastubhyam Varade Kaama-Roopini
Vidyaarambham Karishyaami Siddhir-Bhavatu Me Sadaa
Guru Mantra:
aum!! O! Guru, thou art the creator, sustainer and dispeller
Thou art to me the perceivable supreme Self, accept my humble surrender
ॐगुरुर्ब्रह्मागुरुर्विष्णुर्गुरुर्देवोमहेश्वरः |
गुरुसाक्षातपरब्रह्मा तस्मैश्रीगुरवेनमः ||
GururBrahma GururVishnu GururDevo Maheshwaraha
Guru Saakshaat ParaBrahma Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha