Om Mani Padme Hum
In recent years, researchers at the University of Missouri in the United States have made significant progress in studying the relationship between mantras and brain waves and brain magnetic fields. They have made the astonishing discovery that when a person silently contemplates a mantra, a corresponding brain magnetic map can be measured on a superconducting magnetometer that is not in contact with the subject. They measured 27 words and generated 27 corresponding brain magnetic maps. The mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum” is the essence of all words and sounds. In Tibetan areas, people can often be seen holding prayer beads in their left hand and turning the auspicious Mani wheel (which contains the mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum”) in their right hand, while chanting the six-syllable mantra. Some people think this is just a religious act, but in fact, even those who do not believe in Buddhism, if they can chant it frequently with a focused mind, their physical health will gradually improve. The principle behind this is not mysterious. Life lies in movement, and chanting mantras is also a form of movement. Sound is produced by vibration, and the fitness function of a mantra lies in its ability to cause vibrations in the body’s energy channels. Each of us has an internal energy system. The six-syllable mantra, with each syllable having a unique sound, corresponds to specific parts of the body, from top to bottom, in a clear hierarchy:
The Sound of “Om”
The sound of “Om” originates from the reproductive palace, rises along the Ren meridian to the throat. When you open your mouth slightly and gather it, a “humming” sound emerges. The sound vibrates the entire head, filling the seven orifices. If there is an eye problem, exhale with your eyes open; if there is an ear problem, vibrate the ears to treat it; if there is a nose problem, cover one ear and exhale; if there is a head problem, draw the energy up to the head and then exhale. The sound of “Om” fills all places. The most fundamental frequency in the universe is the “Om” sound. The frequency of all sounding objects in the universe fills all places, and its resonant frequency is the “Om” sound. Reciting the “Om” sound can cause resonance in the human body, and the “Om” sound is also a celestial sound. This sound can mobilize the original life energy of the universe.
The Sound of “Ma”
The syllable “ma” is an open throat sound. When pronouncing it, the lips close first and then open, the sound vibrates the throat, the Tian Tu point (at the base of the neck) becomes numb, and this sensation spreads to the arms and even to the palms. It can treat throat inflammation, cough, shoulder periarthritis, and diseases of the arms.
The Sound of “Ni”
The syllable “ni” is a tongue-tip sound, focused on the heart, bringing clarity to the mind. When this sound is emitted, it vibrates in the chest and reflects to the palms, causing numbness in the Laogong points (center of the palm). It treats heart palpitations, chest tightness, lung diseases, high blood pressure, and visceral diseases above the diaphragm.
The Sound of “Pad”
The syllable “pad” is a lip sound. The mouth closes first and then opens. The internal energy reaches the Mingmen point (located on the back, opposite the navel) from the Qi Sea. The Mingmen point and the spine have a warm sensation. It treats diseases of the waist, kidneys, and spine.
The Sound of “Me”
When pronouncing the syllable “me”, the mouth is slightly open, and the sound is below the tongue, moving downwards. The internal energy circulates along the belt meridian. The lower abdomen has a vibration sensation. It mainly treats diseases of the Triple Burner, liver, intestines, and abdomen.
The Sound of “Hum”
The syllable “Hum” directs the energy upwards, to the throat, and then downwards. The energy flows down the front of the body and legs, reaching the Yongquan points (on the soles of the feet). It mainly treats leg pain, joint problems, and other ailments in the legs.
This vibration is like doing “Qi channel gymnastics.” When the Qi channels are open, blood circulation is smooth, and when Qi and blood are balanced, all diseases are eliminated. Therefore, chanting the six-syllable mantra is a method for preventing and treating disease and prolonging life.
The Merits of the Six-Syllable Mantra
“Om” can eliminate the suffering of birth and death in the heavens. “Ma” can eliminate the suffering of fighting among Asuras (demi-gods). “Ni” can eliminate the suffering of birth, old age, sickness, and death in the human realm. “Pad” can eliminate the suffering of animals’ servitude. “Me” can eliminate the suffering of hunger and thirst in the realm of hungry ghosts. “Hum” can eliminate the suffering of heat and cold in the hell realms.
May all sentient beings in the six realms of reincarnation be liberated from suffering soon. Om Mani Padme Hum!