The word Om (aum) derives from the Sanskrit. The Om is the primordial sound by which the earth was created- a similar concept to the Greek Logos. It symbolizes unfolding or expansion- when pronounced, it begins in the lungs, and ends on the lips.

The symbol representing Om is called the omkar, and has four parts, representing the four states of human awareness:

The ordinary waking, or material state:

The state of deep sleep:

The dream state:

Absolute conscience, or the awakened state:

Other versions of the Omkar include:

Sikh Ek Onkar

Vedic (ancient Hindu) Om

Tibetan Om

Jain Om

Pronunciation: Ome • (noun)

Alternate Spellings: Aum

Related Resources:

Buddhism 101
From your About.com guide to Buddhism.

Hinduism for beginners
From your About.com guide to Hinduism

Jain Religion
From your About.com guide to Alternative religion.

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