The verse is a mantra from the Yajurveda Taittiriya Upanishad scriptures and is often recited as an invocation for protection, guidance, and learning. Here's the translation of the mantra:
oṃ saha nāvavatu |
saha nau bhunaktu |
saha vīryaṃ karavāvahai |
tejasvi nāvadhītamastu mā vidviṣāvahai |
oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ ||
May we both be protected, (Guru and disciple)
May we both be nourished,
May we work together with great energy,
May our study be enlightening, and
May no obstacle arise between us.
Om, peace, peace, peace.
Meaning: May the Lord protect us, may the Lord nourishes us both, let both of us perform valorous actions together, the learning of both of us may be bright, let us not hate each other, ohm shanti, shanti shanti.
This mantra is often chanted before starting a new endeavor or a learning session, seeking blessings for mutual support, cooperation, and the removal of any obstacles. The repetition of "peace" at the end signifies the desire for inner and outer harmony.