Present in the Taittariya Upanishad of the Krishna Yajurveda, Om Sahana Vavatu is one of the most revered Shanti Slokas.
Chanted at the beginning of studies or activities, such as yoga, meditation, or spiritual discourses, this Sloka invokes energy, provides strength, and reassures us.
What distinguishes this Sloka is its emphasis on the relation between the Guru and Sishya, or simply teacher and student. The Om Sahana Vavatu lyrics convey the bond between teacher and student, as well as concepts such as mutual respect, cooperation, inner strength, and collaborative learning.
The soothing vibrations of the sahana vavatu Sloka calm the mind and relieve stress and tension, making it a timeless chant for seekers of all ages.
Om Sahana Vavatu Lyrics and Meaning in English, Sanskrit
ॐ सह नाववतु ।
सह नौ भुनक्तु ।
सह वीर्यं करवावहै ।
तेजस्वि नावधीतमस्तु मा विद्विषावहै ।
ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः॥
Oṃ Saha Nāvavatu ।
Saha Nau Bhunaktu ।
Saha Vīryaṃ Karavāvahai ।
Tejasvi Nāvadhītam Astu Mā Vidviṣāvahai ।
Oṃ Śāntiḥ Śāntiḥ Śāntiḥ॥
Om, May the Lord protect and move us both together (teacher and student)
May he nourish us both (for the acquisition of knowledge)
May we both learn and practice together by gaining strength and energy.
Our learning may get filled with brilliance, and may it not lead to hatred towards each other.
Om, the three-fold peace flourish.
Word-by-Word Meaning of this Shanti Sloka
Om – Primordial cosmic sound
Saha – together (here representing teacher and student equally)
Navavatu (Nau + Avatu) – Nau means us two or us both, and Avatu means to protect or move safely
Saha – Together
Nau – both/ us two
Bhunaktu – Nourish or Relish
Saha – Together
Viryam – Strength, energy or vigour (not just physical)
Karavavahai – to do or to perform (representing learning and working together)
Tejasvi – Brilliance, intelligence (indicating that the acquired knowledge be filled with brilliance)
Nau – both/ Us two
Adhitam – that which is learned or studied
Astu – May it happen
Ma – May not or let us not
Vidvishavahai – causing hatred, to be hostile (towards each other)
Shanti, Shanti, Shantihi – Peace (May the threefold peace – external, internal, and cosmic peace pervade all)
