According to Wikipedia : “OM is part of the iconography found in ancient and medieval era manuscripts, temples, monasteries and spiritual retreats in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. The symbol has a spiritual meaning in all Indian dharmas, but the meaning and connotations of OM vary between the diverse schools within and across the various traditions.
In Hinduism, OM is one of the most important spiritual symbols (pratima). It refers to Atman (soul, self within) and Brahman (ultimate reality, entirety of the universe, truth, divine, supreme spirit, cosmic principles, knowledge). The syllable is often found at the beginning and the end of chapters in the Vedas, the Upanishads, and other Hindu texts. It is a sacred spiritual incantation made before and during the recitation of spiritual texts, during puja and private prayers, in ceremonies of rites of passages (Sanskara) such as weddings, and sometimes during meditative and spiritual activities such as Yoga.”
The sound of OM encompasses all words, all sounds in human language. OM is a matrix of all sounds and when in its diversified form gives rise to all words used in language. Whilst this iconography is seen as ‘belonging’ to a few specific religions, I believe that many who do not practise these particular religions also see it as a sacred symbol.
Around the world, those who have broadened their spiritual outlook and who encompass the laws of the universe and our connection to the universal consciousness, see the OM symbol as sacred in the same way that the symbol of the cross is seen. It is widely recognised and accepted that the sound OM, is particularly sacred and when chanted, can transform us and transport us to a divine space.
It is believed that OM is a word or symbol that contains the entire universe. The benefits of chanting the word OM are plentiful – here are a few :
It purified the environment and creates positive vibrations
It cleanses your aura
It easily places you into a meditative state
It brings about deep and intense relaxation
It increases your concentration
It removes toxins from your body and enhances your immune system
It increases your control over your emotions
It takes you on a spiritual journey creating greater happiness and positivity
In a group, the effects are amplified and produce immense positive vibrations
It can enhance healing through rubbing your hands together and invoking the energy of the sound