Vigyan Bhairava Tantra

Sutra – 39

Pranava Meditation: The Cosmic Resonance

Science tells us that the universe, including the solar system and the human body, is composed of atoms and energy. According to science, atoms and energy existed before us, exist today, and will continue to exist even after we are gone. Perhaps our ancestors were aware of this eternal truth, which is why it finds mention in the Bhagavad Gita, where Lord Krishna speaks of the indestructible essence of existence.

Science further reveals that atoms are in perpetual motion, and this motion cannot occur without sound or vibration. Interestingly, this concept mirrors ancient spiritual wisdom, which holds that the universe is simultaneously still and dynamic, resonating with countless vibrations. Those who delve deeply into meditation can discern a divine resonance amidst these cosmic sounds. This divine vibration, termed Anahata Naad in spirituality, represents the unstruck sound of the cosmos.

You were introduced to one aspect of Anahata Naad in Sutra 38; now, let us explore its deeper dimensions.

Science and Spirituality: Bridging the Gap

At one time, science dismissed the notion of sound in space, arguing:

“Space is an almost perfect vacuum, full of cosmic voids, and sound cannot exist there. This is because sound travels through the vibration of particles, and space lacks sufficient particles to create such vibrations.”

However, modern science has since acknowledged the existence of sound in space, as well as a kind of cosmic music. NASA’s website even offers recordings of these celestial sounds, made possible through advanced technology.

Thus, it is unwise to outright reject spiritual wisdom as unscientific, just as it is equally misguided to disregard scientific achievements. Both science and spirituality reveal truths within their own realms of inquiry, and mutual respect between the two can lead to a fuller understanding of existence.

Now, let us uncover the cosmic sound referred to in this sutra and the meditative practice associated with it.

The Cosmic Sound: Pranava

Pranava, or the cosmic sound, represents the primordial vibration from which all creation emerges. Revered in spiritual and tantric traditions, Pranava is seen as the divine resonance, the music of the universe. It manifests in three forms:

1. Vedic Pranava: The chanting of Om, the sacred syllable representing the ultimate reality.
2. Shiva Pranava: The chanting of Hṃ, Haṃ, or Ham, which forms part of the sacred phrase So’ham or Soham.
3. Maya Pranava: The chanting of Harim or Hrīṃ, frequently used in tantric mantras.

According to Sutra 39, you may chant these three sounds together—Om Hṃ Hrīṃ—or focus on any one of them. The key lies in emphasizing the vibration during the final portion of the chant. As the sound concludes, you direct your awareness to the silence that follows, immersing yourself in the stillness of the void.

The Practice of Pranava Meditation

Here is a detailed guide to understanding and practicing Pranava meditation:

1. The Essence of Om
   The sacred syllable Om consists of three parts: A (ah), U (oo), and M (mm). In this practice, the focus is less on perfect pronunciation and more on the resonance created by the chant. As the chant approaches its conclusion, the M sound is uttered with closed lips, creating a humming vibration similar to the Bhramari Pranayama technique in yoga.
2. The Power of Vibration
   This humming sound generates a subtle vibration that resonates through every cell and atom of the body, promoting physical health, positivity, and spiritual alignment.
3. Immersing in Silence
   Once the vibration becomes palpable, cease the chanting and lose yourself in the silence that follows.

Steps to Practice Pranava Meditation

• Find a quiet space, such as a park, a serene room, or any place free from distractions.
• Sit in Padmasana (lotus pose) or Sukhasana (easy pose) with closed eyes and begin chanting Om. Start with a slow but audible chant.
• Gradually reduce the volume of your chant, making it softer and softer until it is barely audible to your ears.
• Focus on the final M sound of the chant, allowing it to resonate and create vibrations within your body.
• Between chants, pause and focus on the shunya kal (interval of silence) that exists between the end of one chant and the beginning of the next. This silent void holds immense potential for deep meditation.

The Importance of the Void

The interval between two breaths, or between two chants, is where the true depth of meditation lies. In this state of stillness, the vibrations of the preceding chant linger, drawing your awareness inward.

As you progress, the need to chant diminishes. You begin to experience the silence and the vibration as a profound connection to the cosmic rhythm of the universe.

Conclusion

Pranava meditation is a powerful technique for aligning yourself with the cosmic vibration. By focusing on the resonance of sacred sounds and immersing yourself in the silence that follows, you transcend the material world and attune to the divine essence of existence. This practice offers a path not only to spiritual awakening but also to physical and mental well-being.

Let the cosmic resonance guide you to stillness, and let the silence within reveal the infinite truth of the universe.