The Gayatri Mantra, also known as the Savitri Mantra, is a verse taken from the Rig Veda (3.62.10) and is addressed to the Sun. The metre in which this mantra was composed is the Gayatri metre and hence its name. The Gayatri metre is said to be the base or mother of all metres.
This mantra is one of the oldest mantras, and generally thought of as being amongst the highest and most powerful mantras of all. This mantra is therefore often referred to as the Mother of the Vedas. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna proclaimed to Arjuna: “Among all the mantras, I am the Gayatri”.
In the Gayatri mantra, the blessings of Soorya Bhagavan are invoked for inner illumination. Gayatri signifies the energy present in the orb of the Sun and it is with this dynamic energy that one ascends spiritually to higher levels of consciousness.
The mantra itself is comprised of twenty-four syllables. The first two lines glorify the manifestation of light on the earth, astral region and the heavens. It is an adoration of the effulgence of the solar being. The third line is a request for inner illumination.
When to Chant the Gayatri Mantra
The mantra can be chanted at any time of the day but the most ideal times are at dawn, midday, and at dusk. These times are known as the three sandhyas – morning, midday and evening. Chanting this mantra at dawn is an excellent way to begin the day since it glorifies the Sun without whom no living being can exist. The practice of chanting this mantra should be done by everyone at least five times daily.
Gaayatri Mantra
Om Bhur Bhuvah Svah
Tat Savitur Varenyam
Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi
Dhiyo Yonah Prachodayaat
Translation: We meditate upon the Effulgence of that adorable Supreme Divinity, the source of Truth, Consciousness and Bliss. May that Supreme Radiance be embodied within us, enlightening our intellect and inspiring us to realise the Supreme Truth.
