Meaning & Translation
Sanskrit
ਓਮ ਨਮੋ ਗੁਰੂ ਦੇਵ ਨਮੋ
Transliteration
Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo
Pronunciation
Full Translation
Known as the Adi Mantra (the "first mantra"), it is chanted to "tune in" before Kundalini Yoga and sacred-chant practice. *Ong* is the creative consciousness, the primal vibration; *Namo* is a reverent bow of humility; *Guru Dev* is the divine, subtle teacher. Together: "I bow to the Creative Wisdom, I bow to the Divine Teacher within."
Spiritual Significance
Centers the practitioner in the Higher Self and connects them to the "Golden Chain" of teachers, opening a clear, protected inner space before practice begins. It reminds the lower mind that it is not the ego that practices, but the soul.
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
Slow and spacious (~60 bpm); each line arcs over one long breath
Chord Chart
Strumming & rhythm (4/4)
D = downstrum, U = upstrum, · = let it ring. one downstrum per chord over the long breaths; the line, not the bar, is the unit.
Call & Response Structure
The Adi Mantra sung in long unison arcs, not call-and-response. The first pass stays close to home through Em and F; the second pass opens on Am and climbs F–G back to C. Let each 'namo' land fully before the next phrase begins.