Om Namah Shivaya — Meaning of the Panchakshara Mantra
The simplest and most popular mantra of Lord Shiva, called the 'Panchakshara' because 'Namah Shivaya' has five syllables.
Om Namah Shivaya
Meaning
Mantra
Om Namah Shivaya
I bow to Lord Shiva.
Meanings written in simple language by the KathaMantra team.
Read next
Frequently asked questions
Can I chant Om Namah Shivaya without initiation?
Yes, this mantra is for everyone and anyone can chant it with devotion.
How should I chant it?
Sit somewhere quiet, count 108 times with a mala or our chanting counter, and keep your attention on the words each time.