The Mystic Syllable Om

The Sanskrit syllable ॐ – transcribed in English as Om – represents a sound that has mystical significance in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. It features in numerous Sanskrit mantras, and is the opening word of many sacred texts. Om symbolizes the beginning, duration, and dissolution of the Universe and its associated Gods.

In the Tantric tradition, the syllable Om is chanted rhythmically by both partners during sexual intercourse. In some cases an extended form of mantra such as Om Mani Padme Hum is used instead. The visual depiction of Om – the Sanskrit character ॐ – us also important in Tantric sex. The female sex practitioner or Dakini in the photograph has the symbol tattooed on her shoulder. She is shown performing the devotional Tantric ritual of Auparishtaka, better known in the west as a blowjob.