The Meaning of Aum: Exploring the Symbol and Its Place in Yoga

Aum, also written as Om, is one of the most recognisable symbols and sounds in yoga. We often hear or chant it at the beginning or end of a practice, but there is much more to Aum than simply a sound we make together in class.

Aum carries layers of meaning, representing consciousness, creation and the journey towards a deeper state of awareness.

Understanding the Aum Symbol

The Aum symbol itself can be understood as a visual representation of different states of consciousness.

The Three Sounds of Aum

In Light on Yoga, B.K.S. Iyengar explores the symbolism and philosophy behind Aum in more detail. The sound has three parts: A-U-M.

These three sounds can be understood through many different yogic and philosophical triads. Iyengar describes them as representing, among other things:

• Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva — creation, preservation and transformation.

• Masculine, feminine and neuter.

• The three stages of yogic discipline: asana, pranayama and pratyahara.

The three sounds come together to create one complete sound — Aum — just as these different aspects can be understood as parts of one whole.

Iyengar also references Sri Vinoba Bhave, who connects the Sanskrit Aum with the Latin Omne, meaning all. In this sense, Aum can be understood as representing omniscience, omnipresence and omnipotence — the idea of the divine as all-knowing, ever-present and all-powerful.

The Meaning of Aum as a Whole

Ultimately, the complete symbol represents Brahman — all creation together with the Creator — and Samadhi.

Perhaps this is why Aum has such an important place within yoga practice. It isn't simply something we chant at the beginning or end of class. It can invite us to become more aware — of our body, our breath, our thoughts, and the space beyond them.

So next time you sit down on your mat and chant Aum, take a moment to notice the experience rather than simply thinking about its meaning.

Feel the vibration of the sound.

Notice the silence that follows.

And perhaps consider that the space between the sound and the silence is part of the practice too.