In Shaivism, the mantra AUM is considered to represent the ultimate reality of Shiva, who is seen as the supreme consciousness and the source of all creation. The syllable AUM is composed of three sounds – A, U, and M – that represent different aspects of the universe and the divine.
The sound ‘A’ represents the waking state and the creative aspect of Shiva. The sound ‘U’ represents the dream state and the preservative aspect of Shiva. The sound ‘M’ represents the deep sleep state and the transformative or destructive aspect of Shiva. Together, these three sounds represent the totality of human experience and the cycle of creation, preservation, and dissolution of the universe.
The sound of OM is considered to be the sound of the universe and is often used in meditation and chanting to connect with the divine consciousness of Shiva. The practice of chanting OM is believed to help the practitioner attain inner peace, increase concentration and focus, and ultimately connect with the ultimate reality of the universe.