The word Om (aum) derives from the Sanskrit. In Vedic religions, 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.

 

It is the first part of the Mani Mantra (Prayer)

   
Unitarian Medallion Unitarian Rondel
The Om (3rd symbol in the Unitarian Medalion) Is a poor representation of the Om in the stained glass rondel at The Octagon Unitarian Chapel in England.

Links
Om (Aum, Omkar, Seed syllable, Pranhava) | symboldictionary.net
Search for Sanskrit Om
Sanskrit Om - Viewing Gallery

last updated 22 Oct 2014