Shri Rama Jaya Rama — Taraka Mantra — Word-by-Word Meaning
श्री राम जय राम — तारक मंत्र
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
श्री राम
Shri Rama
The glorious, auspicious Rama
जय राम
Jaya Rama
Victory to Rama
जय जय राम
Jaya Jaya Rama
Victory, victory to Rama
Complete Translation
Glory to Sri Rama; victory, victory to Rama. These thirteen syllables form the 'Taraka' (liberating) mantra of Rama — said to carry the devotee across the ocean of worldly existence.
Origin & History
Source: Traditional — the Taraka (liberating) mantra of Sri Rama
Author: Ancient tradition
Period: Ancient
Rama-nama is celebrated across the bhakti tradition as the simplest and surest path in the present age. This thirteen-syllable chant is its concentrated form — the 'Taraka' mantra. Saints like Samarth Ramdas built their sadhana on it, and the great Carnatic composer Tyagaraja is said to have repeated Rama's name millions of times. It is most famously linked to Kashi, where Shiva is believed to grant liberation by uttering Rama's name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called the Taraka mantra?▼
'Taraka' means 'that which ferries one across'. The name of Rama is held to carry the devotee across the ocean of samsara (the cycle of birth and death) to liberation, so this chant is called the Taraka (liberating) mantra.
What is the connection with Kashi?▼
Tradition holds that at Kashi (Varanasi) Lord Shiva himself whispers the Rama Taraka mantra into the ear of the dying, granting them moksha — which is why Kashi is revered as a place of liberation.
How should it be chanted for japa?▼
Repeat it on a 108-bead mala at a comfortable, even pace, focusing gently on the sound of Rama's name. There are no restrictions — it can be chanted aloud, softly, or silently in the mind at any time.
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