The mantra "Om Mani Padme Hum" is a sacred Tibetan Buddhist mantra often associated with Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezig), the Bodhisattva of Compassion. It is deeply revered and chanted for cultivating compassion and wisdom. Each syllable holds profound meaning:
1. Om: The universal sound representing the body, speech, and mind of the Buddha.
2. Mani: "Jewel," symbolizing the intention to become enlightened, compassionate, and loving.
3. Padme: "Lotus," representing wisdom and purity, arising unsullied from the mud of samsara.
4. Hum: Indicates indivisibility, the union of method (compassion) and wisdom.
Together, the mantra is often interpreted as: "The jewel is in the lotus," signifying the transformative power of wisdom and compassion in achieving enlightenment.