Ommm. It’s often the first and last sound in your ears in a yoga class. But what does it mean? Perhaps you’ve heard it defined as “the sound of the universe” — but what does that really mean?
For starters, it’s all about sacred threes. Most faiths have trinities in their roots and Hinduism, where om was born, is no different. Even though it’s usually pronounced seamlessly so it rhymes with “home,” om is made up of three syllables: A, U, and M, or, phonetically, “aaah,” “oooh,” and “mmm.” Experts say these syllables can represent a slew of trios, including: the heavens, earth, and the underworld; the Hindu gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva (aka creator god, sustainer god, and destroyer god); and the waking, dreaming, and dreamless states — “to represent all of consciousness,” says Yoganand.
Some scholars say that the shape of the visual om symbol embodies each of its syllables — the three is the Sanskrit letter for “ahh,” that same three with the mini S on it is “oooh,” and the bindhi and half-moon at the top are the “mmm.” Some say the symbol is connected to Ganesh, the Hindu half-elephant god who removes obstacles, because if you squint, you can see his rotund curves and graceful trunk represented.
For my art quilt OM symbol I used a plain background that goes well with my wall color and went with white as it gave a good contrast. Goddess tears free motion quilting ended up working really well.
I'm very happy with how this one came out and it hangs over my fireplace. ( my peaceful place)
Had so much fun with this one I started another and will show you next week.
With all the crap that's been going on the last few days - take some time to clear your mind - start over and let's just make the best of the path we have been given.
(And whatever your God or goddess, some praying couldn't hurt)
:-)
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I love this--thanks for such a great explanation of it too. I'd never known that much about the sound and the symbol. Your art quilt is lovely and peaceful and meditative.
ReplyDeleteLovely. Thanks for information about the symbol we see all over the place, but knew nothing about, really.
ReplyDeleteThe quilting on this piece is perfection and totally compliments the focal symbol.
Gorgeous. Serenity is so needed these days. Recently I have been taking time each day to sit, eyes closed and breath.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great post! Thanks from me, too, for the explanation (quite informative) and also for showing your quilt. I dropped by from Nina Marie's linky because I had to see that interesting curvy design. Honestly, I had no knowledge of it though I've seen it a few times. Love an opportunity to learn and to see a beautiful art quilt. (win-win) Thanks!
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