Om

Om is a Sanskrit word which, on account of the mystical notions that even at an early date of Hindu civilisation were connected with it, acquired much importance in the development of Hindu religion. Its original sense is that of emphatic or solemn affirmation or assent. Later it became the auspicious word with which the spiritual teacher had to begin, and the pupil had to end, each lesson of his reading of the Veda. And ultimately (as equal to Aum) it came to be regarded as an abbreviated method of naming the Hindu Trinity. In the Lamaist form of Buddhism the 'formula of six syllables,' Om mani padme hum, which is variously interpreted, is the most solemn and sacred of invocations; is the first thing taught to Tibetan and Mongolian children, the last prayer breathed by the dying man. It is found engraved on rocks, flags, and praying-wheels, and is looked on as the essence of religion and wisdom, and the means of attaining eternal bliss.