Realize your dreams Achieve your goalsWisdom of the SagesThe mystical energy of mantras is as intact today as it was thousands of years ago. All you need to know is how to invoke a mantra. This book tells you how.In a neverbefore attempt, veering from the ancient tradition of gurudisciple secrecy, Himalayan ascetic and bestselling author Om Swami bares all the essentials and fundamentals of invoking the timeless mantras for material and spiritual fulfillment. Drawing on his decades of firsthand experiences and intense practice on the path of mantra sadhana, with his characteristic simplicity and humor, Swami • The origin of mantras.• Why and how mantras work.• How to choose a mantra and invoke it.• How to succeed in mantra sadhana without a human guru, and • Everything else you need to know about mantra yoga.The Ancient Science of Mantras, magnificent and easy to read, is your ultimate guide to selftransformation. Brimming with wisdom, anecdotes and the author’s personal experiences, the sadhanas given here have been practiced and verified by Swami. An indispensible companion to those embarking on a spiritual journey. Om Swami is a mystic living in the Himalayan foothills. He has a bachelor’s degree in business and an MBA from Sydney, Australia. Prior to his renunciation of this world, he founded and ran a multimillion dollar software company successfully. He is the bestselling author of A Million Thoughts, An Untold Story, A Fistful of Love and If Truth Be A Monk’s Memoir.
Om Swami is a mystic who lives in the Himalayan foothills. Prior to renunciation, he founded and ran a multimillion-dollar software company with offices across the world.
I have always found Om Swami's spiritual books to be excellent. He covers a segment of writing which had a gap. There are many books providing translations of important Vedantic texts in Hinduism such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads. There, are however, very few which expound on key concepts and associated spiritual practices which have an unbroken tradition in Hindu spirituality. Om Swami’s books cover this much needed area in English.
The book starts with how mantras can be powerful. We know that sounds are powerful — at the minimum they can alter moods & thinking. When aligned to something more expansive & divine — reaching for the oneness we can all experience, the transformatfve power is higher. It is believed that all mantras have their origins in Lord Shiva, and great Rishis of the past ensured their transmittance to others for the greater good. For mantra worship to work, Om Swami mentions that it is necessary to believe that God can have a form - mantras when invoked for specific forms as is typical with idols in Hinduism are powerful. Om Swami keeps it simple and leaves a lot unsaid. but the message is clear - discover your way and focus on your practice and do not believe the widespread nonsense & negativity around Hinduism you encounter every day.
The book has detailed descriptions of the concept, important mantras and the process for invoking them. There are also many very short stories and anecdotes to make the point. While quite a few were very familiar (such as the beautiful story of Shiva and Devi), there were many I did not know as well. There are details on the constituents/Iimbs of mantras, compatibility, deities (including the Ishta devata), typical faults, rituals and ways to invoke/chant.
Om Swami points out that verbal teaching by a Guru as been the norm. He goes on to say that times have changed, and considering the importance of the subject, he is taking a modified approach to this. He, nevertheless, strongly recommends a guru for learning.
This is obviously a book I will need to return to on and off. This is very detailed and should be regarded as an advanced book. A book I strongly recommend for those interested in mantra meditation in the Hindu tradition.
I started reading it as soon as I got it. I pre ordered this book as I was very excited to read it and practice the mantra Vidya. I read it in two sittings as it is the first of its kind of book in which Mantra Sadhna is explained to the fullest with 4 sadhnas that anybody can do without the living guru. But after reading it I got a good idea about the mantras and all but also realised that every Sadhna can be done only when you have a lot of time to devote in it and most of above your surroundings support you because every Sadhna have rituals and requires Discipline that is almost impossible in this society of fast moving life. But overall this is a great book for a sincere seeker and a knowledge book for those who have keen interest in mantra science. Another practical book from Om Swami.
Mantra Sadhana is an extremely powerful way of invoking Divine energies. For a struggling spiritual aspirant, Swamiji makes it look incredibly clear and straight forward. Starting from the offerings to the various mantras to be chanted before during and after every Sadhana, the Mudras and the various purposes for which each Sadhana is done, this is one distilled concentrated shot of knowledge.
It might look daunting at first but once anyone wets their feet in this holy water, there is no looking back. The pull off the Divine is indeed powerful, and the power surely multiplied by the blessings and guidance of Swamiji.
No words to express my immense gratitude for this wonderful knowledge and for His Grace in helping me follow the path sincerely and diligently, step by little step.
My deepest pranams at Your Lotus Feet Swamiji, always
Solely for those who want to work actively in mantra chanting. Beside Mantras, you won't find anything related to meditation and other spiritual practices. However, the mantra chanting has been discussed to its limits here, for a beginner atleast.
First of all my humble obeisance at the divine feet of Swamiji! This is not an ordinary book. This books falls under the category of Bhakti - Mantra Sadhana. This really cannot be categorised under simple non fiction section. Its not autobiography or self help book. This is beyond all of this. In fact it has nothing to do with materialistic achievements in our life. It's for beyond. This book states everything one ever wants to know about Mantra Sadhana on path of Bhakti. Swamiji outlines details steps of what is Mantra and true process of invoking that Mantra.In short to bring Mantra to life.Not just this but everything about the process - Beads to use, how to perform Yagnya, place,time to choose, How to chose Mantra and every single related thing.In today's world one will rarely find such detailed work on this topic. And the icing on the cake is Swamiji is talking from his first hand experience. Every single steps is practiced and validated by him. To add he quotes several true stories from his personal life. Now what more one can ask for. The Words are less to praise such book in this era. Only serious and sincere seeker will find true wisdom in this book. But Swamiji has opened his treasure of wisdom for everyone. One who is even slightly interested on this path will get too much from this book. Thank you so much Swamiji. _/\_
Om Swami is God's Gift to mankind. He is modern day Guru who is presenting the ancient knowledge from scriptures in such a simple form that anybody can practice these esoteric techniques. If you have read his previous on Kundalini you would be extremely happy to find the connection between that book and this one. He Demystifies the pronunciation of Beej Mantras which was not mentioned in his book on Kundalini. So its a bonus gift when you complete reading this book. He has given detailed instructions on how to invoke mantras with every possible detail. There's nothing left for the seeker to search for, since tiniest details have been shared by the master himself. His personal experiences are so well written and mind you, you will be highly tempted to invoke these wonderful mantras since Swami ji has shared what he went through when he completed a particular Sadhna. I loved this part so much when such a devoted practitioner shares his own journey. This book is a gem for the present generation and for the coming ones. It's highly recommended. However you will benefit most from the book when you practice the learnings. Its only on paper till then.
Only a self-realized being can write a book like this. Each page is perfect in it's own sense. The knowledge, fundamentals of mantras, how did mantra came into 3D reality, the possibilities of mantra Sadhana, everything you need to know about Mantras (Sonic Science) has been explained in this book with 4 different methodologies to adopt and implement them to your own life to find the truth in first hand. More than reading this book, it's purely about practicalities. How well we imbibe this to our life and make it part of ourselves is what that does matter at last! Mantra Sadhanas were given to Brahmins at their early stage of their lives through Upanayana. Now! Through this book is given wholeheartedly with Om Swami's grace to all beings. If you are a serious mantra sadhaka this is the perfect book for you. Take this book only if you are serious about practicing it. It's all worth it in the end. :-)
A simple, thorough and valuable work written in a book format. This book helped to clear so many misconceptions around rituals and Sadhanas. I would admit, though, as written in the foreword itself, this book is for serious seekers and explains all the intricacies Hindu rituals and Pujas, the history as well as lineage.
Wow. Simply wow. This books opened up yet another very interesting side of our ancient mythology and spiritual richness of our religion. I'm Swamiji has painstakingly elaborated on this practice. The language is simple. Instructions are clear and can be easily followed. A good starting point to start your sadhana.
The absolute best book to read on Mantra-s. The stories here are absolutely breathtaking. They transport you to another world and they can be easily visualised. The chapters dealing with the intricacies of traditions and compatibility are things I never knew! Looking forward to applying all of this precious knowledge to my routines.
The language! Wow Wow Wow!! Nothing can be said that it is beautifully written!
If there's only one book that a person wants to read about learning mantra sadhna (especially if they dont have diksha and a guru) let that be this book. It comes from someone who has himself done the sadhna over a prolonged period of time and got the desired results. It's so simple in terms of language that all the complicated readings I came across before this seemed unnecessary. Although the path suggested isn't easy by any means but its practical and understandable. It would certainly be a value add for someone who genuinely is interested in the subject
Another great book by Om Swami, talking on the ancient science of mantra. Great for people who want to dive seriously into Mantra Yoga, but can be quite overwhelming. Certainly will do some of the sadhanas included in this book🙏!
Book: The Ancient Science of Mantras Author: Om Swami Publisher: Jaico Publishing House (2017) Total Pages: 486 Reviewed By: Neel Preet
Om Swami's "The Ancient Science of Mantras" is a unique and accessible guide to the practice of mantra yoga, a path to self-transformation through the power of sound. Unlike traditional approaches that often shroud mantras in secrecy, Swami breaks new ground by demystifying the practice, making it attainable for anyone seeking spiritual or material fulfillment.
The book opens with a bold claim: the mystical energy of mantras remains potent even today. Swami, a Himalayan ascetic and bestselling author, draws on his decades of experience and practice to explain the fundamental aspects of mantras. From their origins to their practical application, the book delves into the "why" and "how" behind mantras, empowering readers to unlock their potential.
Key elements that set this book apart:
A) Breaking the Secrecy: Swami deviates from traditional methods by openly sharing essential knowledge about mantras, including their selection, invocation, and the practice of mantra sadhana (spiritual discipline) without a physical guru.
B) Practical Guidance: The book goes beyond theory, offering clear instructions and techniques for incorporating mantras into your daily life. Swami provides "sadhanas" (practices) that he has personally tested and verified, making them a reliable resource for beginners.
C) Science Meets Spirituality: While acknowledging the mystical aspects of mantras, Swami also explores the scientific underpinnings of their effectiveness. This blend of tradition and reason makes the book appealing to a wider audience.
D) Engaging Narrative: Swami's writing style is characterized by simplicity, humor, and personal anecdotes. This makes the book informative and enjoyable to read, even for those unfamiliar with mantras or spiritual practices.
While the book is comprehensive, there are a few points to consider like its focus on accessibility, the book might not offer an in-depth exploration of the esoteric philosophy behind certain mantras. Readers seeking a deeper understanding of specific traditions might need to supplement their studies. The book provides general guidance, but the success of mantra sadhana ultimately depends on individual practice and commitment. Readers may need to experiment and find what works best for them.
Overall, "The Ancient Science of Mantras" is a valuable resource for anyone curious about the power of mantras. Whether you're a seasoned spiritual seeker or simply looking for a way to enhance your well-being, Swami's book offers a practical and accessible gateway to this ancient practice.
Here are some additional thoughts: i) The book can be a valuable companion for those seeking to add a spiritual dimension to their daily lives. ii) Swami's emphasis on personal responsibility and self-practice empowers readers to take charge of their own spiritual journey. iii) The book can serve as a springboard for further exploration of mantra traditions and their rich cultural heritage.
By shedding light on the power of mantras, "The Ancient Science of Mantras" offers a compelling invitation to unlock the potential that lies dormant within you. It's a well-written and informative guide that can empower you to transform your life through the practice of mantra sadhana.
A book that explains the origins, meaning, and significance of mantras, seamlessly weaving together philosophical insights, historical anecdotes, and personal experiences.
From understanding the science behind sound vibrations to exploring the different types of mantras and their specific applications, the book covers a wide range of topics, leaving no stone unturned.
Interesting Part: The author shares the story of Ravi, a middle-aged man grappling with chronic stress and anxiety. Ravi, overwhelmed by the demands of his high-pressure job and strained relationships, found solace and guidance through Mantras. With Ravi's continued practice of mantras, he noticed a significant improvement in his overall well-being. His anxiety diminished, replaced by a newfound resilience and clarity of mind.
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For further reference in case if you are interested
The sound vibrations of mantras have a profound impact on our body, mind, and spirit. They operate on a subtle level, influencing our energetic system and creating a harmonious resonance within us. The specific frequencies and vibrations produced by mantras can activate and balance our chakras (energy centers), stimulate our nervous system, and promote overall well-being.
When we chant or recite mantras, the vibrations created by the sound waves penetrate every cell of our body. This vibrational energy has the potential to release stagnant or blocked energy, promote healing, and restore balance to our physical and subtle bodies. The repetitive nature of chanting mantras also helps to calm the mind, reducing stress and anxiety, and inducing a state of deep relaxation.
Wow. I generally pick up a book after reading the back cover at the least but here I picked it up blindly thinking that it's about the science of mantras but it isn't. The book is about Mantra Yoga and about performing a sadhana the right way. The book has 3 parts aptly titled Book 1: The Foundation, Book 2: The Practices and, Book 3: Sadhanas with detailed notes on certain aspects at the end. The book is wonderful as I began reading and as I immersed myself into it, the understanding of a sadhana dawned on me very heavily. I realized, as written, that it is not an easy task to do one. I felt sadhana isn't my forte. But reading the book gave me so much positivity that I slept well, I started eating well. For the devoted, this book is a joyous ride into some divine understanding of being a human on the path towards God.
Well it is good at what it does but what it does is not something i was looking for. It's a complete guide/reference book on proper mantra sadhna. The kind where you are spending more than 30-40 mins a day at it like proper 5 hours a day or even more if you add the time of preparations done for daily sadhna. I was looking for a guide that could help me with simple mantra japa and not ask for commitment of more than 30-40 mins. Maybe the customs don't allow that either way it's really extensive and aimed at people willing to devote more than a couple of hours a day and are serious sadhkas. Not for me but i did learn many things from it. This should be mentioned by the author that this is a complete extension practice guide so that readers like me don't order it mistakenly.
This was a tremendously useful read for me. It's now abundantly clear that safely and correctly practicing mantra yoga as described here is not something I should do. Finding a reliable and appropriate guru would be better. But finding such a one is nearly impossible, in the west or perhaps anywhere. Still, better to forgo a bungled attempt based on poorly understood instructions from a book than to forge ahead with damaging results. It's said that "When the student is ready the teacher will come." So with that hope I'll watch and wait and practice as best I can. By all means, read this book. If you're ready it will help. If not you'll know.
It's not a book, its a all you need to know manual for Hindu practitioners
This book is so full of details that I felt like S someone is teaching me personally. It's full of knowledge, steps, and practical applications. I wish I could enter to meet him in person and make him my guru. However, until that time, I will treat this book as a perfect guide. A couple of topics are still ambiguous, like what mantra Siddhi means, why is needed, etc, but he touched upon it slightly. Rest you will have to figure it out by yourself.
This book is for you if you believe in God or energy in mantras. This book is like a textbook you read before diving into a sadhana. The purpose of this book is to read it and apply in life. I have read this book twice so far to get a hang of this book. Still have not mastered many things. Om Swamiji himself must have read so many scriptures and experienced so much first hand to produce this text. We, the readers, are lucky to get this priceless fruit, which he has drawn out of his spiritual basket and generously handed over. Thankful to him that he has made our lives simpler and organised.
Salutations to the divine swamiji for this mammoth of a work! I can only imagine the patience and work required to create this book- but rest assured, it has created the ripples necessary for Sanatan Dharma and everything around it. It has personally illuminated my life having done one of yeh sadhanas with the appropriate mantras as specified in this nothing short of a modern shastra. Thank you, thank you, and May the light encompass us all!
Since 2017, I have read this book many times and recommended to hundreds of people. Everytime I read this book I find several new things, which comes to my mind. Very good piece of work by Swamy ji. I have a long desire to personally meet swamy ji as I have read almost all the books written by him.
The ancient science of mantras is a book with a complete package of all the wisdom of ancient sages. The author has kept it simple for even the most beginner to understand.
It statts from basics with an intro of hoe mantras were created to how we can use them with complete guidance and blessings of Swami ji.
It's not bad. But it's for someone who wants to learn all the detailed techniques and dedicate him/herself to mantra yoga, which i don't find very practical.
Also, as the name suggests "Science", well there was little to no science in that book only methods ( not criticizing any methods they may hold their benefits)
One of the most esoteric and enlightening book that I have read. Talks about 'Mantras' and the sound effect of these ancient hymns or verses and how they can be chanted for the benefit (spiritual) of the individual.
Although I did not understand every bit of this book, I have certainly marked it for a second read as this is quite interesting...
Firstly, it is only for people who believe in God; Secondly, the rituals and processes sound very long-winded and tedious...find the perfect guru and then perfect your mantra. Couldn't get through the whole book as I felt it wasn't practical unless you devote yourself to only this
Good enough details on mantra Sadhana for beginners like me. Good capsulation of information from various manta Sadhana books, with author’s own experiences and yet empathetic towards readers and curious aspirants to learn the science of mantra.
This is packed with ancient wisdom and a modern approach to how to utilize the sacred power of mantras to enrich one's life. A must-read to anyone interested in meditation. Also to note that Om Swami, the author is an enlightened being. What an honor to read his blessed words.