17

www.CSEcenter.org

It is good to connect with a teacher and a tradition that uses and understands 

mantra because the orientation to mantra from a teacher, or guru, steeped within 

the tradition can be of great benefit in understanding which mantra is appro-

priate for focusing on accomplishing one’s goals.

Rev. O’Brian:

 

It is useful to understand the philosophy and science behind 

mantra, and connecting with someone who has used mantra and has a key 

to unlocking it in consciousness, is an important element to experiencing the 

energy of that mantra. I spoke earlier about being given a mantra that had been 

given to my Guru by Paramahansa Yogananda, who said that, “Mantra practice 

alone has the power to bring someone to samadhi, to Superconsciousness.” He said 

that out of his direct experience and so the mantra that he gave carried with it his 

consciousness. 

Dr. Frawley:

 

Yes, in fact that is extremely important because the mantra has no 

power if there is not a connection to the inner current of awareness, which is 

how the inner flow of the mantra goes on. Eventually it is not your voice that 

repeats the mantra, but rather, the mantra coming forth from that inner flow. 

Rev. O’Brian:

 

In your book, you say, “Mantra perhaps uniquely represents both 

the teachings and its practice at the same time. It holds the key to the greater Yoga 

tradition and its continual adaptation. It links the human mind with the Cosmic 

mind. Yet mantra is also something very accessible that we can begin with at any 

stage of our inner quest.”
Beginning with a simple understanding of the power of the word there is so 

much we can all do to bring peace into our lives and into our world. And as the 

Buddha said, “Watch your words and let them serve peace.”  

Dr. David Frawley is the Co-Director, along with Yogini Shambhavi, of the American Institute of 

Vedic Studies. He is an expert in the Vedic Sciences of Yoga, Vedic Astrology and Ayurveda. He is the 

author of several books, including his recent title, Mantra Yoga and Primal Sound: Secret of Seed (Bija) 

Mantras. For more information: www.vedanet.com

To hear this conversation in its entirety,  

including a segment with Yogini Shambhavi, log on to:  

 www.unity.fm/program/theYogaHour