Textual Tuesday

 Hari Om

Shanti mantras are those opening shlokas of any text within the Sanskrit library that are offered as prayers conducive to the process of learning and gratitude for the Knowledge. Shanti mantras are often used separately from the texts to which they are appended. There are also some Shanti mantras developed specifically as prayers. At the start of any discourse, satsang, class or meeting, mantras are generally chanted in order to set a tone and atmosphere for what is to follow. They bring all minds (or aim to!) into focus on the matters at hand. We shall look at a few of the most commonly used over the next few weeks. 

First, the shishya's prayer for focused learning and healthy debate without falling out! (You can listen to its chhandas ['tune'] HERE)

ॐ सह नाववतु ।
सह नौ भुनक्तु ।
सह वीर्यं करवावहै ।
तेजस्वि नावधीतमस्तु मा विद्विषावहै ।
ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः ॥

Om Saha Nau-Avatu |
Saha Nau Bhunaktu |
Saha Viiryam Karavaavahai |
Tejasvi Nau-Adhiitam-Astu Maa Vidvissaavahai |
Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih ||

Meaning: 

Aum! May He protect us both together; 

may He nourish us both together;

May we work conjointly with great energy,
May our study be vigorous and effective;
May we not mutually dispute (or may we not hate any).
Aum! Let there be Peace in me!

Let there be Peace in my environment!

Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me!