Namah Shivaya

The song 'Namah Shivaya' by Krishna Das is a deeply spiritual piece that is rooted in Hindu tradition and devotion. The lyrics are a mantra, which is a sacred utterance believed to have spiritual power and is often repeated in meditation and prayer. The mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya' is known as the Panchakshara mantra, which means 'five-syllable' mantra, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism.

In the context of the song, the repetition of 'Om Namah Shivaya' serves as an act of worship and a way to connect with the divine. It is a form of meditation that helps the practitioner focus their mind and surrender to the higher power. The mantra is chanted to seek blessings, inner peace, and enlightenment. Krishna Das, known for his Kirtan-style performances, which involve call-and-response chanting, uses his soulful voice to draw listeners into a state of contemplation and reverence.

The additional names mentioned in the song, such as 'Shambhu Shankara' and 'Girija Shankara,' are other aspects of Lord Shiva. 'Shambhu' refers to the benevolent aspect of Shiva, while 'Shankara' is another name for Shiva that means 'giver of joy.' 'Girija' is a name for Goddess Parvati, Shiva's consort, and 'Arunachala' refers to a sacred hill in South India associated with Shiva. By invoking these names, the song pays homage to the multifaceted nature of Shiva and his abode, symbolizing the universal and all-encompassing presence of the divine.