Significance of Sacred sound
Sacred sound, as defined across various Hindu traditions, signifies the auspicious and divine sounds or chants integral to rituals and spiritual practices. It encompasses prayers, mantras, and auditory elements believed to invoke divine presence, resonating through the universe and enhancing concentration during meditation. According to Shilpashastra, Vaishnavism, and other philosophies, sacred sounds like the syllable 'OM' hold mystical significance, symbolizing unity and spiritual efficacy in worship. These auditory elements are foundational in rituals across multiple spiritual frameworks.
Synonyms: Holy sound, Divine sound, Spiritual sound, Chant, Mantra, Hymn, Prayer, Incantation, Intonation
In Dutch: Heilige klank; In Finnish: Pyhä ääni; In Spanish: Sonido sagrado; In German: Heiliger Klang
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Sacred sound'
Sacred sound in Hinduism encompasses uplifting chants and mantras that symbolize unity, invoke divine presence, and enhance spiritual connection during rituals and meditation, with particular importance given to the syllable "om" as central to Vedic spirituality.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The divine chants and mantras recited during rituals, believed to resonate through the universe and invoke spiritual presence.[1] (2) The uplifting and joyous sounds made by the Brahmanas, indicating auspiciousness and celebration, symbolizing unity and spiritual significance.[2]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Refers to the spiritual and divine utterances or rituals, like the omkara, in which the creatures participate, denoting sacredness.[3]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Sacred sound, in this context, refers to the syllable 'om,' which is considered central to the practice of spirituality in the Vedic tradition.[4]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Chants or prayers considered holy, significant in spiritual practices.[5]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A sound imbued with spiritual significance, often used in worship and meditation practices.[6]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) The auditory elements, chants, or music that carry significant spiritual connotations and are integral to rituals.[7]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) The auspicious sounds or chants uttered during rituals, associated with divine presence and blessings.[8]
The concept of Sacred sound in local and regional sources
Sacred sound, as defined by regional sources, pertains to the sacrificial noises emanating from Brahmanas knowledgeable in the Vedas, symbolizing a profound spiritual resonance that connects the earthly realm to the divine.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The noises of the sacrifice that resonate through the sky, created by the Brahmanas who understand the Vedas.[9]