The Gayatri---the oldest mantram known to humanity
The Gayatri (GUY-ah-tree)
The oldest mantram known to humanity
by Dwana Kolva
O Thou who givest sustenance to the Universe,
From Whom all things proceed,
And to Whom all things return,
Unveil to us the face of the true Spiritual Sun,
Hidden by a disc of golden light,
That we may know the truth,
And do our whole duty
As we journey to Thy Sacred Feet.
The Gayatri Mantra is said to be the most important mantram in the Hindu tradition and it is one of the oldest mantric prayers humanity has ever had. It has been chanted for thousands of years and is considered a universal prayer for all people of the world. This mantram is increasingly used by men and women of goodwill and is believed to have the power to move the cosmos. In saying the Gayatri, we are praying to the creator of the universe and seeking enlightenment for all beings on earth, The Gayatri is thought to be derived from two words: GAYA meaning “vital energies” and TRAYATE meaning “preserves, protects, and grants liberation”. So the Gayatri might be interpreted as a prayer that awakens our vital energies and liberates us from ignorance.
It is recommended that this mantra be chanted at dawn, noon and dusk, although it can be chanted anywhere and at any time. It is important to vocalize with humility, reverence, faith and love instead of just mechanically repeating the words. Even when its meaning is not fully understood, its power is still very extraordinary. This mantra has the power to awaken our highest intellectual and creative capacities. The vibration of the words opens up our heart center and activates all seven energy chakras in the body. Chanting the Gayatri purifies our energy producing a healing effect on our body, mind and spirit. It enables us to increase our wisdom and spiritual growth by bringing light to our spiritual path. It is also said to provide protection to the person who chants it with love and devotion.
Foster Bailey wrote that “the Gayatri is a prayer for more knowledge about our solar Logos.” He believed it was deeply significant that so ancient a prayer could have such a purpose. May we all know the truth and carry out our duties as we journey together on our path of light to the sacred feet of God.
