Om namah shivaya / Panchakshara Mantra
Keep in mind, that different sects and denominations of Shaivism, along with others, spell, interpret and pronounce this mantra in their own way.
In the Shiv Purana, Lord Shiva explains the five - syllable Mantra Aum Namah Sivaaya affords protection from the fear of disillusions, defiled by unimaginable and inexpressible faults, mental verbal and physical.
"Adoration (homage) to Siva." The supreme mantra of Saivism, known as the Panchakshara, or "five syllables".
The five sacred syllables "Namah Sivaya," as Saivism's foremost and essential mantra.
The meaning of.
Aum Namah Sivaya is such a precious mantra because it is the closest sound that one can make to emulate the sounds rushing out of the Self into the mind.
Notice as one chants this ancient Saiva Mantra Siva is in the center recognizing that Spiritual-Reality/"God" is at the center. In mediation, one may also chant SI VA YA NA MA. This way of chanting puts the individual soul at the center realizing one's true identity.
Thirumoolar's thoughts on the mantra.
Om Namah Shivaya means:
"I take refuge in God."
"I surrender to God."
"I bow to the God Within."
"Lord, Thy Will be Done."
