विष्णु मंत्र — Word-by-Word Meaning
विष्णु मंत्र
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
ॐ
Om
the primordial sound
नमो
Namo
salutations / I bow
नारायणाय
Narayanaya
to Narayana — Lord Vishnu, the resting-place of all beings
Complete Translation
ॐ। समस्त जीवों के आश्रय व पालक भगवान नारायण (विष्णु) को नमस्कार है।
Origin & History
Source: The Ashtakshara mantra of Lord Vishnu (Narayana)
Author: Traditional (Vedic / Puranic)
"Om Namo Narayanaya" is the Ashtakshara — the eight-syllable mantra — of Lord Vishnu, worshipped as Narayana, the one who rests upon the cosmic waters and in the heart of every being. Counted among the supreme mantras of the Vaishnava tradition, it has been chanted by sages and devotees for ages as a refuge of peace, a remover of sin, and a sure path to the Lord's liberating grace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Vishnu Mantra?▼
The principal Vishnu mantra is "Om Namo Narayanaya" — the Ashtakshara (eight-syllable) mantra, a salutation to Narayana, Lord Vishnu, the sustainer and refuge of all beings. ("Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" is the related twelve-syllable mantra.)
What are the benefits of the Vishnu Mantra?▼
It is chanted for peace, protection, the removal of sin and sorrow, steady devotion, and ultimately liberation (moksha). It is treasured as a purifying refuge in times of distress and at the end of life.
How many times should I chant the Vishnu Mantra?▼
Chant it 108 times daily on a tulsi mala. Being short and complete, the eight-syllable mantra is also ideal for continuous japa through the day.
When is the best time to chant the Vishnu Mantra?▼
Thursdays (the day of Vishnu), Ekadashi and Vaikuntha Ekadashi are the most auspicious, and dawn is the ideal hour. It may be remembered at any time.
Which other Vishnu prayers can I recite?▼
Recite "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya", the Vishnu Sahasranama, the Vishnu Chalisa and the "Om Jai Jagdish Hare" aarti along with this mantra.
Ready to start chanting?
See Benefits & How to Chant →