Om Shanti: When Someone Dies in Hindi – A Comprehensive Guide
When someone passes away, it is a time of profound sadness and loss. In Hindi culture, the expression “Om Shanti” holds great significance. It is a sacred mantra that brings peace and comfort to the bereaved. In this article, we will delve into the meaning of “Om Shanti,” its usage during the mourning period, and the rituals associated with it.
Meaning of Om Shanti
“Om Shanti” is a combination of two words: “Om” and “Shanti.” “Om” is a sacred sound that represents the universe and is often chanted at the beginning and end of prayers and rituals. “Shanti” means peace or tranquility. Therefore, “Om Shanti” translates to “Om peace” or “Om tranquility.” It is a powerful mantra that is believed to bring peace to the soul of the departed and comfort to the living.
Usage of Om Shanti During the Mourning Period
After the death of a loved one, the family and friends gather to pay their respects. During this time, “Om Shanti” is chanted to honor the departed soul and to seek peace for their journey ahead. Here are some ways in which “Om Shanti” is used during the mourning period:
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Chanting: “Om Shanti” is chanted by the family members, friends, and sometimes by a priest or a pandit. The mantra is repeated multiple times to create a sense of peace and tranquility.
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Mantras: Along with “Om Shanti,” other mantras such as “Om Namah Shivaya” and “Om Jai Jagdish Hare” are also chanted to seek the blessings of the gods and to comfort the departed soul.
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Prayers: The family and friends gather to offer prayers for the departed soul. “Om Shanti” is often included in the prayers to seek peace for the soul.
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Funeral Service: During the funeral service, “Om Shanti” is chanted to honor the departed soul and to seek peace for their journey ahead.
Rituals Associated with Om Shanti
There are several rituals associated with “Om Shanti” that are performed during the mourning period. Some of these rituals include:
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Antyeshti: The last rites, also known as Antyeshti, are performed to honor the departed soul. “Om Shanti” is chanted during the ceremony to seek peace for the soul.
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Shradh: Shradh is a ritual performed on the 13th day after the death of a loved one. “Om Shanti” is chanted during the Shradh ceremony to seek peace for the soul.
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Shanti Path: A Shanti Path is a special prayer service performed to seek peace for the departed soul. “Om Shanti” is chanted repeatedly during the service.
Table: Rituals and Their Significance
| Ritual | Significance |
|---|---|
| Antyeshti | Final rites performed to honor the departed soul. |
| Shradh | Ritual performed on the 13th day after the death to seek peace for the soul. |
| Shanti Path | Special prayer service performed to seek peace for the departed soul. |
Conclusion
“Om Shanti” is a powerful mantra that brings peace and comfort to the bereaved. It is an integral part of the mourning period in Hindi culture and is used in various rituals to honor the departed soul. By understanding the meaning and usage of “Om Shanti,” we can offer our support and solace to those who are grieving.