Peace Prayers in Hinduism
Advaita, in relation to Hinduism, is the philosphy of “non-duality” in Sanskrit. It is the understanding that we are all one with the universe, that the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are one and the same. This realization leads to the experience of oneness with the cosmos, transcending all dualities and distinctions. It is not based on belief or faith (Vishwasa), but on the fundamental truth of existence (Swasha). Just as breathing happens regardless of belief in it, Advaita is about recognizing the inherent oneness and integrity of all life. Oneness is realizing that there is no separation between you and others; everything is interconnected.
To pray advaitically means to recognize and experience this oneness in prayers. Use affirmations like “Shivoham” (I am Shiva) or “Aham Brahmasmi” (I am Brahman) during your prayers.
Peace prayers in Hinduism invoke divine blessings for universal harmony, tranquility, and the well-being of all beings through the chanting of sacred mantras and prayers.
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Advaita and Oneness Prayers
Advaita prayers and Oneness prayers essentially refer to the same concept. Both types of prayers emphasize the non-dual nature of existence, recognizing that all beings and the universe are interconnected and fundamentally one.
Advaita Prayers:
- Focus on the realization that there is no separation between the individual self (Atman) and the universal consciousness (Brahman).
- Aim to dissolve the illusion of duality (Maya) and experience unity with all existence.
Oneness Prayers:
- Emphasize unity, harmony, and interconnectedness among all beings.
- Encourage a sense of universal love, compassion, and peace.
Both types of prayers help cultivate a deeper understanding and experience of non-duality, leading to inner peace and spiritual awakening. Whether you call them Advaita prayers or Oneness prayers, their essence remains the same: recognizing and celebrating the inherent unity of all life.
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Advaita (non-dual) Prayers for Peace
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Shanti (Peace) Mantra
Om Sahana Vavatu
Sahanau Bhunaktu
Sahaveeryam Karavavahai
Tejasvinavadhitamastu Ma Vidvishavahai
Om Shanti Shanti Shantih
Translation
“May we be protected together, may we be nourished together, may we work together with great energy, may our study be enlightening and not give rise to hostility. Om, peace, peace, peace.”
Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah
Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah
Sarve Santu Niramayah
Sarve Bhadrani Pashyantu
Ma Kashchit Dukha Bhagbhavet
Om Shanti Shanti Shantih
Translation
“May all beings be happy,
May all beings be free from disease,
May all beings experience auspiciousness,
May no one suffer in any way.
Om, peace, peace, peace.”
Om Purnamadah Purnamidam
Om Purnamadah Purnamidam
Purnat Purnamudachyate
Purnasya Purnamadaya
Purnameva Vashishyate
Om Shanti Shanti Shantih
Translation
“Om, That (the outer world) is Full (Purna) with Divine Consciousness; This (the inner world) is also Full (Purna) with Divine Consciousness. From Fullness comes Fullness (From the Fullness of Divine Consciousness, the World is manifested). If you take away the Full from the Full, the Full remains as Full. Om, Peace, Peace, Peace.”
This mantra emphasizes the completeness and perfection inherent in all aspects of existence and invokes peace in all dimensions.
Oneness Prayers that Emphasize Unity, Harmony, and Interconnectedness
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Universal Peace Prayer
Om Sarvesham Swastir Bhavatu
Sarvesham Shantir Bhavatu
Sarvesham Purnam Bhavatu
Sarvesham Mangalam Bhavatu
Om Shanti Shanti Shantih
Translation
“May there be well-being in all,
May there be peace in all,
May there be completeness in all,
May there be auspiciousness in all.
Om, peace, peace, peace.”
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Prayer for Harmony
Asato Ma Sadgamaya
Tamaso Ma Jyotir Gamaya
Mrityor Ma Amritam Gamaya
Om Shanti Shanti Shantih
Translation
“Lead me from the unreal to the real,
Lead me from darkness to light,
Lead me from death to immortality.
Om, peace, peace, peace.”
Prayer for Universal Love
Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu
Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu
Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu
Om Shanti Shanti Shantih
Translation
“May all beings everywhere be happy and free.
May the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and freedom for all.
Om, peace, peace, peace.”
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Prayer for Compassion
Karuna Sindho Deva Deva Jagatpate,
Anatha Natharakshe Mam Tvam Krupakaro Bhava.
Om Shanti Shanti Shantih
Translation
“O Ocean of Compassion! O Lord of Lords, Protector of the Universe,
Protect me, who am helpless. Be merciful to me.
Om, peace, peace, peace.”
Prayer for Unity
Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti
Tat Savitur Varenyam
Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi
Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat
Om Shanti Shanti Shantih
Translation
“Truth is one; the wise call it by many names.
We meditate on the divine light of that One who illuminates us all.
May it inspire our intellect towards righteousness.
Om, peace, peace, peace.”
These prayers help cultivate a sense of unity and interconnectedness with all beings, fostering inner peace and harmony in your life.
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Mahatma Gandhi: Prayer for Peace
“I offer you peace. I offer you love. I offer you friendship. I see your beauty. I hear your need. I feel your feelings. My wisdom flows from the Highest Source. I salute that Source in you. Let us work together for unity and love.”
Rabindranath Tagore: Prayer for Peace
“Peace, my heart, let the time for the parting be sweet. Let it not be a death but completeness. Let love melt into memory and pain into songs. Let the flight through the sky end in the folding of the wings over the nest. Let the last touch of your hands be gentle like the flower of the night. Stand still, O Beautiful End, for a moment, and say your last words in silence. I bow to you and hold up my lamp to light your way.”
Blessings and peace to you!