Having witnessed the cosmic power of “Om” in Shiva’s infinite pillar of light, the sages now sought a deeper understanding, asking Sutji, “O wise one, how can the sacred sound ‘Om’ guide us to liberation, and what is the magnificence of Shivalok, Shiva’s eternal realm?”

Sutji, his voice a soothing melody, replied, “O sages, your question opens a path for all humanity. ‘Om,’ also called Pranava, is the first sound of creation, a vibration that frees the soul from life’s endless cycles. It’s a whisper of the divine, pure and true, guiding us to recognise our deepest essence. When we chant ‘Om,’ we begin a journey inward, dissolving the burdens that tie us to the world and opening the door to liberation-a state of living freedom where we’re one with the divine.”

He continued, “Pranava takes two forms, like two hands reaching out to all seekers. The Subtle form, ‘Om,’ is for those who meditate, a quiet hum that steadies the mind in yoga. The Gross form, ‘Namah Shivaya,’ is for those who pray with devotion, a chant that fills the heart with love. Within ‘Om’ are three sacred sounds-‘A’, ‘U’, and ‘M’-each a piece of the cosmic dance: ‘A’ is Shiva’s spark of creation, ‘U’ is the nurturing love of Shiva and Shakti, and ‘M’ is their union, the gentle dissolution that renews all things. Together with the cosmic sound (Naad) and the infinite point (Bindu), ‘Om’ becomes the heartbeat of the universe, a reminder that everything begins and ends in Shiva.

” Sutji then shared a transformative practice: “Chanting ‘Om’ with a sincere heart purifies the soul, step by step. Those who dedicate themselves fully-chanting it millions of times over a lifetime-find their way to Shivalok, Shiva’s radiant abode. But even a single chant, offered with love, can begin this journey, melting away the ego and drawing us closer to Shiva’s grace. The ‘Namah Shivaya’ chant, another form of Pranava, is a simpler path for devotees, carrying the same promise of peace and freedom.”

He described Shivalok’s magnificence: “Shivalok is a realm of supreme bliss, far beyond the 56 worlds and 14 realms of existence. It’s where the soul’s journey finds its home, passing through sacred abodes like Brahma’s and Vishnu’s before reaching Shiva’s eternal light. Here, Shiva and Shakti are one, their union a perfect harmony of love and power. Only through deep devotion, meditation, or a life of purity can we touch this place, where the soul finds ultimate peace, free from birth and death.

” Sutji added, “Worshipping Shivji is a simple act of love. Whether you offer a drop of water to the Shivling, chant his name, or sit in quiet meditation, what matters is your heart. Shiva and Shakti, as divine parents, embrace all who come to them with sincerity.”

He concluded, “This wisdom is a blessing for all who hear it. Through the sacred sound of ‘Om,’ we can rise above life’s cycles, finding joy in this world and liberation in the next, held always in Shiva’s infinite love.”