Mantra is a Sanskrit word consisting of the root man – “manas or mind” and the suffix –tra meaning, tool, hence a literal translation would be “mind tool”. Mantras interpreted to be effective as sound (vibration), to the effect that great emphasis is put on correct pronunciation (resulting in an early development of a science phonetics in India). They are intended to deliver the mind from illusion and material inclinations. Chanting is the process of repeating a mantra. Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra is a great mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is called Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra because it is a great death-conquering mantra. Sometimes it is also known as Mrita – Sanjivani Mantra. The Maha Mrityunjaya mantra is hailed by the heart of the Veda. This mantra holds the highest place along with the Gayatri Mantra among the many mantras used for contemplation and meditation. It is believed that to overcome the fear of death, Lord Shiva himself gave humanity the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra. This mantra restores health, happiness and brings calmness in the period of death. When courage is blocked, it rises up to overcome obstacles. The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra as follows: II Om Traymabkam Yajamahe Sugandhinam Pushtivardhanam I Uruvarukamiva Bandhanan Mruyomukshiya Ma Mrutat II Meaning: Lord Shiva is the three eyed god. Shiva is always perfumed. He fosters all the creatures of the Universe. Lord Shiva releases from death for the sake of immortality, as cucumber detaches is bondage of the vine. We workship Lord Shiva to liberate us from death. This mantra is really powerful and even regarded as a life saving prayer.
