Krishna Gayatri Mantra:
Om Damodaraya Vidmahe Rukmini Vallabhaye Dhimahi Tanno Krishna Prachodayat
Breakdown and Meaning:
- Om Damodaraya Vidmahe
- Om: The universal sound and symbol of the supreme consciousness, representing the essence of the universe.
- Damodaraya: Refers to Krishna as "Damodara," which comes from the Sanskrit words "Dama" (rope) and "Udara" (belly). This name is associated with a famous childhood story of Krishna, where he was tied with a rope around his belly by his mother Yashoda as a loving punishment.
- Vidmahe: Means "we meditate upon" or "we seek to know." Translation: We meditate upon Lord Damodara.
- Rukmini Vallabhaye Dhimahi
- Rukmini Vallabhaye: "Rukmini" is the name of Lord Krishna's principal consort, and "Vallabha" means beloved or husband. Thus, "Rukmini Vallabhaye" refers to Krishna as the beloved consort of Rukmini.
- Dhimahi: This word means "we meditate upon" or "we focus our thoughts upon." Translation: We meditate upon the beloved of Rukmini.
- Tanno Krishna Prachodayat
- Tanno: This translates to "may he" or "let him."
- Krishna: Refers to Lord Krishna, the supreme deity known for his divine love and wisdom.
- Prachodayat: This means "may he inspire" or "may he enlighten." It is a request for Krishna’s guidance and illumination. Translation: May Lord Krishna enlighten and inspire us.
Overall Meaning:
The Krishna Gayatri Mantra is a prayer that invokes Lord Krishna, focusing on his forms as Damodara (the divine child who was tied with a rope by his mother) and as the beloved husband of Rukmini. The mantra is a request for spiritual guidance, wisdom, and enlightenment from Krishna.
Significance:
- Spiritual Guidance: The mantra seeks Lord Krishna's blessings for wisdom and insight.
- Devotional Practice: Reciting this mantra helps devotees deepen their connection with Krishna, particularly in his loving and playful aspects.
- Meditative Focus: The mantra serves as a focal point for meditation, aiding in concentration and spiritual contemplation.
This mantra is cherished by devotees for its profound spiritual significance and its ability to connect them with the divine presence of Lord Krishna.
