Om Namo Narayanaya — Meaning and How to Chant
This is the eight-syllable (ashtakshari) mantra of Lord Vishnu as Narayan. In the Vaishnav tradition it is counted among the most important mantras. Sage Narad is always shown chanting 'Narayan, Narayan'. It is simple to chant, and anyone can repeat it with faith.
Om namo narayanaya ||
Meaning
Mantra
Om namo narayanaya ||
I bow to Lord Narayan — Vishnu, the refuge of all beings.
Meanings written in simple language by the KathaMantra team.
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Frequently asked questions
How many times should I chant Om Namo Narayanaya?
108 times (one mala) a day is common. A tulsi mala is considered auspicious for Vishnu japa.
When should it be chanted?
In the morning after bathing, on Thursdays, on Ekadashi and before sleep — or any time with a calm mind.
Why is it called the Ashtakshari mantra?
Om-Na-mo-Na-ra-ya-na-ya — it has eight syllables, so it is called the Ashtakshari (eight-syllable) mantra.