Vigyan Bhairava Tantra
Sutra – 41
Aahat-Naad Meditation
The term Naad means sound, vibration, or tone, and it manifests in two forms: Aahat (struck sound) and Anahata (unstruck sound).
Anahata Naad or Anahad refers to the divine resonance or the sound that flows continuously and naturally without causing harm. It is a celestial vibration, one of the myriad sounds reverberating through the universe, which can only be perceived by those who attain deep meditative or samadhi states. The second aspect of Anahata Naad involves natural and continuous sounds such as flowing rivers or gentle breezes, as described in Sutras 38 and 39.
Aahat Naad, in contrast, refers to sounds or music generated through deliberate action—such as the striking, plucking, or blowing of instruments like the veena, sitar, tanpura, guitar, violin, flute, tabla, and other similar instruments.
The Role of Instruments in Aahat-Naad
String instruments, collectively referred to as tantri vadya, are the primary focus of this sutra. In these instruments, music is produced by applying force or vibrating the strings. Although instruments like the flute do not have strings, they are included in this context because their melodies are equally captivating and are created through the application of effort. The enchanting notes of the flute remind us of Lord Krishna, who mesmerized hearts with the divine music emanating from this simple yet profound instrument.
When percussion instruments are added to the mix, the resulting music can evoke a powerful sense of exhilaration. Such rhythms can inspire you to sway, dance, or even lose yourself in their energy. After dancing to this music, your body may seek rest, and sleep might gently embrace you. The magic of such sounds lies in their ability to penetrate the mind and influence the body, compelling it to respond physically before eventually inducing a state of relaxation or slumber.
Meditating with Aahat-Naad
According to this sutra, one should concentrate on the uninterrupted music produced by these instruments (resembling the ceaseless flow of a river) and allow it to guide the mind beyond its usual boundaries. This music enters the mind, moves through it, and transcends it, taking you into a state of inner stillness.
While listening to this flow of sound, you might sway or move gently, but it is not a movement of distraction or restlessness. Instead, it is a rhythm that connects you deeply to the music. Unlike music that induces dancing or sleep, this form of sound awakens you, drawing your attention inward.
The sutra encourages immersing yourself in this flow of sound, meditating on its essence. As you focus on the melody, your awareness deepens, and you become attuned to subtler, more profound vibrations within the music—notes that transcend the audible melody. Even when the external music ceases, the resonance of these deeper tones lingers within, enriching your meditative experience and leading to greater spiritual depth.
Practical Application in Modern Times
The technique described in Vigyan Bhairav Tantra Sutra 41 is particularly suited to modern lifestyles and can be easily practiced today:
- Choose the Right Music: Select music from the instruments mentioned above—veena, sitar, tanpura, flute, or similar sources. You can download tracks online. Ideally, choose melodies lasting 5–10 minutes.
- Find a Quiet Space: Sit in a peaceful environment, either indoors or outdoors, in Padmasana (lotus pose) or any comfortable posture. Use earphones for an immersive experience.
- Immerse in the Melody: With eyes gently closed, focus entirely on the music. Let its vibrations resonate within you. Do not analyze or think about the notes; instead, allow them to flow naturally into your being.
- Discover the Center of the Sound: As you concentrate on the melody, begin to sense its core. Beyond the audible tones lies a subtler vibration—the essence of the music. Let your awareness dwell on this center.
- Feel the Residual Vibration: Even after the music stops, its vibrations continue to resonate within you. This lingering sensation becomes your focal point, drawing you deeper into meditation.
The Essence of Aahat-Naad Meditation
Unlike dance-inducing or sleep-inducing rhythms, Aahat-Naad meditation uses sound to elevate your consciousness. The vibrations of the music bridge the gap between the external and the internal, guiding you to a state of stillness where external distractions dissolve.
As you progress, the external music becomes a stepping stone, leading you to perceive the inner symphony—a vibration more profound and subtle than the audible sound. This internal resonance helps deepen your meditation and aligns your consciousness with the universal rhythm.
Aahat-Naad meditation is a journey through sound, beyond sound, and into the silence that lies at the heart of all creation.
