Meaning & Translation
Sanskrit
लोकाः समस्ताः सुखिनो भवन्तु
Transliteration
Lo-kah Sa-mas-tah Su-khi-no Bha-van-tu
Pronunciation
LOW-kah sah-MAS-tah soo-KHEE-no bhah-VAN-too
Full Translation
This Sanskrit prayer is a wish for the happiness and liberation of all living beings — human and non-human, near and far. It is an expression of the Bodhisattva ideal and the yoga of universal compassion.
Spiritual Significance
Chanting this prayer expands the heart beyond personal concerns into universal compassion. It is a reminder that our spiritual practice is not just for ourselves, but for the benefit of all beings everywhere.
Traditionally Accompanied By
For Leaders
Chords and structure for leading this chant on harmonium or guitar — transcribed from the linked recording. New to leading? Read our guide to leading kirtan →
Original key
C
Tempo & feel
Spacious and lyrical (~60 bpm); more sung prayer than driving chant
Chord Chart
Strumming & rhythm (4/4)
D = downstrum, U = upstrum, · = let it ring. spacious blessing: down on 1, a soft lift mid-bar; leave room for the words.
Closing round
Call & Response Structure
Often used to close a kirtan or yoga practice. The I–V–vi–IV loop repeats as one long line; the closing round resolves home to C. Keep the response soft — this one works best when the whole room ends in near-silence.
Terms in the Glossary
Words from this page, explained in our A–Z reference.