Sloka
The most precious of all Saivite mantras, Nama˙ Sivâya is freely sung and chanted by one and all. Mantra dîkshâ bestows the permission and power for japa yoga. Without this initiation, its repetition bears lesser fruit. Aum.
Bhâshya
The Pañchâkshara Mantra is the word of God, the name and total essence of Siva. But to chant Nama˙ Sivâya and to be empowered to chant Nama˙ Sivâya is likened to the difference between writing a check without money in the bank and writing a check with money in the bank. Nama˙ Sivâya is the gateway to yoga. Initiation from an orthodox guru is given after preparation, training and attaining a certain level of purity and dedication. The guru bestows the authority to chant Nama˙ Sivâya. After initiation, the devotee is obligated to intone it regularly as instructed. This forges the Sishya’s permanent bond with the guru and his spiritual lineage, sampra dâya, and fires the process of inner un foldment. From the lips of my Satguru nâtha I learned Nama˙ Sivâya, and it has been the central core of my life, strength and fulfillment of destiny. The secret of Nama˙ Sivâya is to hear it from the right lips at the right time. Then, and only then, is it the most powerful mantra for you. The Siva Samhitâ affirms, “Only the knowledge imparted by a guru, through his lips, is powerful and useful; otherwise it be comes fruitless, weak and very painful.” Aum Nama˙ Sivâya.