Important Aspects of Sound in Hinduism and Our Life

Have you ever thought that a basic element “Sound” can be the strongest source of spiritual connection? Yes, you heard it right, a minute vibration created anywhere in the Universe, in a specific pattern can establish a divine connection.

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Welcome to the avid world of engrossed readings at www.onindianpath.com. Today we are going to discuss the important aspects of Sound Theory in Spirituality and Hinduism.

Introduction

Chirping of birds, the burble of water bodies nearby and other continuous vibrations are the common companions that remain with you the entire day. Do you even give heed to these sounds? Have you ever thought about how these sounds really work for you? Not really, as these sounds are very soothing and welcoming so they are usually glossed over.

Importance of Sound in Hinduism

Sound is also known as Dhwani in Hindi. It has profound significance in hinduism. Moreover, sound is intrinsic to every individual that possesses some special characteristics but mostly the importance of sound is ignored. Further, the role of sound in Hinduism is very crucial that leads to spiritual upliftment on its own. So, this blog unveils some of the unexplored but effective aspects of Sound Theory.

Shankh naad (sound blown from conch)

Shankh or conch shell is an integral part of Hinduism. You will find conch shell in every temple and in most of Hindu houses. Unlike West, we Hindus wake up to the sound of conch played by our elders.

Additionally, Shankh is blown as starting and ending ritual for many puja and Havana. Shankh, when blown fully, produce resonate sound, vibrations that attracts positivity and energy in body and in ambiance.

As, it is part of marine ecosystem, not all the variety are considered pious in Hinduism. There are different types of Conch explained in ancient texts. We will be covering them in details in upcoming blog.

Although, Lord Vishnu is associated with shankh as it is a divine weapon to eradicate ignorance and paving towards Dharma. Apparently, Shankh was collected from Samundhra Manthan (churning of oceans).Vedas and Upnishads explains its significance to represents the sound of the primordial Aum, the sound of creation.

Damru (Hindu Small Drum)

However, Damru is a hourglass shaped clapper drum rests on palm and played by swinging in the air. Do you know which Hindu God is associated with Damru? Let me answer, its Lord Shiva. Damru makes vibrating and melodious sounds awakens Aum in the universe.

Damru is sn integral part of life of Shaivities. It It is believed that Sanskrit came from sound of Damru.

It’s significance can be learned from the fact that Lord Shiva dance on sounds of Damru during Tandava (dance of destruction).

Also, other scholar suggests it as amalgamation of masculine and feminine energies to create the universe. Upper part is Lingam and lower part is Yoni.

Ghanti (Bells)

Hindus believe that Hindu gods and goddesses love the sound of bells and conch shells. Sanatana Dharma is incomplete without the power of bells.

However, ringing the bell before entering the temple awakens the consciousness of the idols of Gods and Goddesses. As sound of ghanti (bells) provokes energies of Aum in universe. Also, by ringing the bell, consciousness starts circulating inside the body. The atmosphere becomes lively by ringing the bell before entering the temple and during the puja.

However, ringing the bells during aarti and puja at home and temple brings your focus towards spiritual action. It also improves concentration.

Infact, the vibrations created by the sound of bells destroys the germs and bacterias in the atmosphere.

Highlights of Sound

a) Firstly, in spirituality the importance of sound can be understood by the fact that every act of meditation, yoga practice or spiritual healing is done through sound effects. It could be silence (no sound) or some times it can be chanting of mantras or humming of sounds or playing soothing music.

b) Secondly, singing bowl therapy is a very popular practice when it comes to sound healing concepts. My sister in law, Yogini Preity Bisht, has learnt this skill three years ago. As per her professional experience, this specific therapy has healed blocked chakras of her patients. Not only this, she also told me, therapy helped her clients to come out of mind blocks, anxiety and depression effectively.

c) Thirdly, sound is the strong foundation of Hinduism. Musical form of sound help us to transforms Vedic texts, shlokas, strota and other rhythmic patterns into easy life lessons. Even, the sound of shlokas from Bhagavad Geeta is a manifestation of God.

d) Moreover, in Hinduism Naad and Shabd are two significant aspects. It is believed that the existence of this universe is the result of the sound effect created by Brahma on hearing the sound “tap tap”.

Another essential sound is of “Aum” which is the sound everywhere in the universe. This sound is used in meditation and other spiritual practices for attaining peace of mind. Vibration produced by the resonance of “Aum” creates a soothing aura.

e) In addition to this, Mantras in Hinduism are the powerful sacred sounds. These sounds create strong energies which develop a positive layer all over the place. These Mantras when recited in a particular manner have a great influence on mind and soul.

f) To continue further, Kirtan dhwani is another very impactful sound in Hinduism. According to the surveys, Kirtan increases memory and helps remember the oldest of facts.

Sound in Vedas and Upanishads

Now coming to the Vedas and Upanishads, sound is the essential element to bring out the essence of these rich scriptures. Besides this, there is a huge importance of sound in Vedic chanting. Let’s look at the basic benefits of Vedic chanting according to specific musical sound.

• Chanting in specific pattern helps in building immunity.
• Chanting sound helps to calm the mind.
• Vedic Mantras are very effective in balancing the chakras.
• Vedic Mantras when recited by mass with a specific pitch and note are beneficial for heart, stress, depression and other health problems.

Conclusion

Overall, the role of sound is extremely important when it comes to Hinduism and Spiritual enhancement. The concept of Sound is indeed vast and includes infinite rituals and traditions that will be covered in upcoming blogs. Hence, for now we can conclude by saying that sound energies create, transform and establish a connection between mind, soul and divine.

To sum up, sound works wonders for the growth of human being. For more insights into the similar content keep reading!.

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