IN the foregoing sections of this study, we have seen how it I has been taught since time immemorial by the Indian sages that behind the apparent self of which we are conscious in everyday existence, the self that shirks pain and seeks pleasure, that changes from moment to moment and is subject to the effect of time and space, there is the permanent “Self,” the Atman.

Focus your full, undivided attention in the center of your brain where the pineal gland is located. Listen with your attention for whatever sounds present themselves.

Most readers would be aware of the different forms of popular yoga, namely: Hatha yoga, Jnana yoga, Bhakti yoga, Karma yoga, Raja yoga, Mantra yoga and Laya yoga. Regardless of the differing emphasis one tradition of yoga places over another, all should have the same goal. That goal, put simply, is to separate the individualized soul from mind and matter, and unify it with the universal Soul (God or Brahma).

Nada Yoga is the exploration of consciousness through the vehicle of sound and the discovery of its source. Although a distinct path of its own, nada yoga can also include other aspects of yoga that relate to transformation through sound such as music, tone, and the art of listening.

Nada Yoga consists of two words. The Word Yoga means Union with the Divine Source of All Life. As the Divine is living within All things, so it is that there are many Pathways to the Divine.

In Sanskrit “Shabd” is a root but we do not know its construction, as with other words. It means awaz (sound), akhar (word), kalam (talk), Ism (name), zamir (essence), bachan (spoken word), wazahat (exposition), sarahat (clarity), izhar (expression), taqrir (speech), etc.

NAAM is easier said than known and practiced. It is only an adept in the mysteries of Naam who knows its true significance and the great power that lies hidden in it. Apparently it is just a syllable, but what it connotes is beyond understanding even by the most learned in book knowledge; though it may be possible to apprehend it through the grace of one well versed not only in the theory but in the practice as well of the Word.

The Word (Sound) is echoing and re-echoing in the whole of creation. There is no place without It. It is resounding in the living temple of the human body.

Ever since the late 19th Century when British rule of India began bringing eastern philosophy westward, and especially since the dawn of the modern new age movement in the 1960’s, people have been interested in a wide variety of occult, metaphysical and spiritual paths. All of these paths (or areas of interest) are like facets on the diamond of God.