Om Purnamadah Purnamidam is revered as one of the most profound philosophical Vedic invocations. This timeless shanthi mantra speaks about the nature of ultimate reality and the inherent completeness of existence.
Unlike many mantras that invoke a specific deity, this mantra contemplates the concept of ‘Purna’, which refers to fullness, wholeness, or completeness, symbolising the supreme reality Brahman.
The mantra conveys the non-dual vision of Vedanta, declaring that there is no separation between the creator and creation.
Om Purnamadah Purnamidam Mantra and Meaning
ॐ पूर्णमदः पूर्णमिदम्
पूर्णात् पूर्णमुदच्यते ।
पूर्णस्य पूर्णमादाय
पूर्णमेवावशिष्यते ॥
ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः ॥
Oṃ pūrṇamadaḥ pūrṇamidaṃ
Pūrṇāt pūrṇamudacyate |
Pūrṇasya pūrṇamādāya
Pūrṇamevāvaśiṣyate ||
Oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ ||
With the sacred sound Om, I offer my reverence to the Supreme Brahman, that which is infinite and complete and to this Universe, which is complete
From the complete arises the complete creation
From this completeness, even after taking away the whole completeness, nothing is diminished
The Completeness alone continues to exist
May peace prevail on the three levels – mind, body and spirit
The Philosophical Depth of Purnamadah Purnamidam
The mantra teaches that everything in existence is pervaded by the same infinite reality, known as Purna (completeness or fullness).
Nothing exists outside this divine wholeness, for all creation arises from and remains within the Supreme Reality, Brahman.
At its core, the mantra conveys Advaita, in which the creator and creation are not separate. It reminds us that true completeness is not something to be acquired from the external world, but is the very nature of our existence.
Through this profound wisdom, the mantra encourages us to look beyond feelings of lack and recognise the fullness that already resides within and around.
Benefits of Reciting Om Purnamadah Purnamidam
• Awakens awareness of one’s innate completeness and supports spiritual growth.
• Brings inner peace, harmony, and positive energy.
• Cultivates a sense of wholeness and emotional well-being.
• Fosters awareness of the interconnectedness of all life.
• Reminds us that everything exists according to the divine order.
• Reduces anxiety and attachment to worldly possessions and desires.
• Encourages contentment by helping us recognise the fullness within.
How to Recite and When To Recite
There are no strict rules for reciting this mantra. It may be chanted by anyone, regardless of age or gender, at any time of the day.
However, the mantra is traditionally recited during the following occasions to derive its greatest spiritual benefit:
• During Brahma Muhurta (pre-dawn hours).
• At sunrise or sunset, when the mind is naturally calm.
• In a peaceful and serene environment.
• Before studying spiritual scriptures such as the Upanishads, Vedas, and Puranas.
• At the beginning of pujas and other spiritual gatherings.
