The ancient and mystical mantra "ॐ पूर्णमदः पूर्णमिदम् पूर्णात् पूर्णमुदच्यते | पूर्णस्य पूर्णमादाय पूर्णमेवावशिष्यते || ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः |" holds a deep and profound meaning, encapsulating the essence of completeness, wholeness, and the eternal cycle of existence. This mantra, often called the Purnamadah Mantra, is a treasure from the ancient scriptures and carries a message that transcends the boundaries of time and space.
The Mantra:
oṃ pūrṇam adaḥ pūrṇam idam pūrṇāt pūrṇam udacyate |
pūrṇasya pūrṇam ādāya pūrṇam evāvaśiṣyate |
oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ ||
Translation:
"Om, That is full; this is full. From fullness, fullness arises. When fullness is taken from fullness, fullness remains. Om, peace, peace, peace."
Wholeness and Completeness: The mantra begins by affirming the idea of fullness and completeness. It suggests that everything in the universe is already complete, lacking nothing. It is a reminder that the ultimate reality, the cosmic essence, is whole and all-encompassing.
The Eternal Cycle: The mantra describes how fullness arises from fullness, symbolizing the eternal cycle of creation, preservation, and dissolution. It represents the continuous flow of life, where one form gives rise to another, all rooted in the completeness of the divine source.
Nothing is Taken Away: The mantra beautifully conveys that even when fullness is taken from fullness, fullness remains. This signifies that the universe is infinite, and every part is interconnected, never depleting the cosmic fullness.
Peace: The mantra concludes with the powerful chanting of "Om Shanti," invoking peace three times. This reinforces the idea that recognizing the eternal completeness leads to inner peace, tranquility, and harmony.
The Purnamadah Mantra is a profound philosophical statement, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all existence, the eternal nature of the universe, and the ultimate completeness that permeates every aspect of life. It reminds us that even in the ebb and flow of existence, the source, which is whole and unchanging, remains within and around us.
Chanting and Contemplation: Chanting the Purnamadah Mantra with understanding and devotion can help connect us with the divine source and lead us to a sense of inner peace and contentment. Contemplating its meaning allows us to align ourselves with the greater cosmic order and appreciate the beauty of life's intricate dance of creation and dissolution.
In a world often filled with fragmentation and imperfections, the Purnamadah Mantra reminds us of the inherent fullness within and around us. It invites us to embrace life as a part of this eternal completeness, transcending the limitations of the material world and finding solace in the profound wisdom it imparts.