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Scientific basis of Gayatri meditation (Gäyatrï Sädhanä Kï Vaigyänika Prashthabhümi): Vangamaya Vol-14
Oamkära—- the eternal, omnipresent, self-originated sound of (Om) is said to be the original source of existence of the cosmos. The Gäyatrï Mantra – the first Mantra known since the origin of time and creation of nature, is said to have emanated from this self-existent näda (eternal sound). The essence of the ancient Indian philosophy and its glorious human-values is said to have generated from this Mantra. This Mantra, a unique compilation of twenty four syllables and vowels in Sanskrit language, is described as the source of creation of the four Vedas and hence of all dimensions and ultimate expansion of knowledge.
Many religious scriptures are compiled by enormous types of Mantras each with specific effects and implications but the Gäyatrï Mantra stands superior to all. It is a Mantra which can also be chanted as a chanda (hymn). It is regarded as the sonic representation, a coded formula, of the absolute divine power of Thee. Lord Krishna has also identified himself as “Gäyatrï Chandsamham” in the Bhagvata Gita (Shloka 35, Chapter 10); meaning: “among all the chandas, I am Gäyatrï ”.
The knowledge of the sädhanäs (spiritual endeavors) of realization of the powers of this Mantra and its philosophical and scientific decipheration is so vast that seven volumes of the Vangamaya series are devoted to it. The present volume elucidates the scientific aspects of this Mantra some of which have been analyzed in the modern research laboratories too.
Mantras are specific configurations of sonic patterns coded as interlocking of syllables and phonetic symbols to produce specific vibrations. At a gross level in general, sound serves as a medium for communication but, at the subtler and the higher dimensions of its existence, it plays the role of energy. Literally, Mantra (= manan + träna) means a source of awakening and liberation of mind and therefore has intimate relationship with psychology and spirituality too. Vibrations in the gigantic ‘ocean’ of consciousness fall in the subtle domains of sound. The cosmic and spiritual dimensions of sound are scientifically deciphered in the context of—- ultrasonic and infrasonic applications, origin, expansion and impact of music and the science of Mantras and Oamkära, in volume no. 19 of the Vangamaya series. In the present volume, the specific features and significance of Gäyatrï Mantra are discussed in detail.
Indian spiritual masters and devotees of all ages have practised the japa – anushthänas (spiritual endeavors of meditation and disciplined enunciations) of the Gäyatrï Mantra. This Mantra has been recited infinitely many times since the time of yore. Its vibrations are pervaded in the subtle world and penetrate the aura of vital energy and the ideosphere of the sädhaka (devotee) whenever the latter recites this Mantra with deep meditation on the glow of rising sun and having emotional linkage with the inner self. These cosmic vibrations influence the sädhaka’s brain-waves and eliminate the deficiencies and disorder in the mental domains too.
As the sädhanä of the devotee progresses in conjugation with corresponding refinement of his personality, the vibrations produced in and around his body due to the japa of Gäyatrï Mantra begin resembling the pre-existent vibrations of this Mantra in the cosmos and generate greater influence and expansion because of superimposition with the latter.
According to the science of acoustics, the patterns of sound waves produced by each of the twenty-four letters of the Gäyatrï Mantra are very special and their combined effect is a source of immense energy. Repeated recitation of this mantra in multiples of 108 results in cyclic superimposition of the associated vibrations and creates a field of force inside and around the body of the reciter. The continuous movement of the tongue and its impact on the palate during the recitations of this mantra produces specific vibrations in the connecting nerves too.
The connection and movements of specific fingers used for holding and moving the rosary (of 108 beads) for the purpose of counting of japa adds to the soothing excitation of the nervous system. Significantly, the nerves connected with the components of vocal cord, tongue, palate and fingers used in the japa have more than 60 % representation in the cerebral cortex. The bioelectrical currents generated by the excitation of the nerve cells complete one “neuronal cycle” per recitation and activate the brain with fresh energy. Continuity of rhythmic recitations (japas) maintains the mind in a totally awaken state charged with vital power of consciousness.
The bioelectrical impulses generated in the neuronal system sensitize the endocrine glands and activate specific neuro-hormonal secretions which play principal role in harmonizing the healthy functions of the body, creativity of mind and emotional peace and cheerfulness. The subtle vibrations generated in the inner core of brain also exert positive effects on the extrasensory power centers in the human body.
Acoustic analysis of the Science of Mantras—- also known as the “science of harmony of symbols and sounds” shows that the Gäyatrï Mantra has been given a ‘crown status’ because of its unique manifold vibrations and power to influence the physical, subtle and spiritual bodies simultaneously. Because of the impact of these vibrations on the aura (of vital energy) around the body, the surrounding atmosphere too gets affected coherently. The effects in the surroundings are found to be most significant if this mantra is chanted or chanted loudly and collectively.
It should be noted that positive effects of any kind would be realized only if the mantra is recited with unperturbed mental concentration and serene sentimental conjugation (devotion). Without either of them the “neuronal cycle” will not be complete or would be disturbed by other bioelectrical flows excited by the agile movements of the conscious mind.
The spritiual practises (sädhanäs) of Gäyatrï Mantra have inherent relation with yagna, shikhä and yagnopavita. The philosophy and science of yagna are discussed in volume nos.25 and 26 of this series. The implications and importance of shikhä—- hair knot at the central top of the head at a position regarded important in the central nervous system and for the practices of yoga, and yagnopavita or sütra—- sacred thread wore on the upper half of the body (its structure symbolizes the philosophy of life and the disciplines associated with its use support psychological elevation)—- are highlighted in the present volume. Gäyatrïä, Yagna, Shikhä and Sütra are integral parts of the Indian culture which is developed on strong footing of the science of human psychology and spirituality. Pt. Shri Ram Sharma is honored as an authority on these subjects because of his unparalleled erudite knowledge, his own experiences and successful experiments and sädhanäs of the highest kind.
Acharya Sharma has discussed each of the above mentioned aspects of Gäyatrï Mantra in detail. It is only possible for a super brain like his to present these in a manner which makes the scientific analysis interesting and within the grasp of the readers who might not have any scientific background and at the same time gives directions for innovative research on Gäyatrï and unification of Neurosciences and the Science of Spirituality.
The volume would serve as an eminent source of guidance for all—- including aspirants of spiritual attainments, devotees of Gäyatrï Sädhanä, scholars of ancient sciences and scientists and researchers etc. and propagate the fundamental knowledge and immense scope of the science of spirituality in new light promising revival of the divine culture.
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