SCIENCE AND SPIRITUALITY OF SOUND

Sound is the subtlest symbol of Brahman, the Absolute Conciousness. Hence it is called ‘.Sabdabrahman’. Sound consists of two divisions or classes : articulate , also called alphabetical and inarticulate or intonational sound. Articulate sound can be recited in the letters of the alphabet. It deals with knowledge or understanding by the intellect. Inarticulate sound deals with feelings, emotions, of the mind. Articulate sound has a limited application because it can be articulated by only those who has sufficient training and knowledge of a particular language. Language is the medium of communication. However, even if one does not know the language of another, emotional expressions such as cries and laughter will communicate the sense of sorrow or happiness. This is the universal way even babies communicate and this method exists in other animal species as well. Music is another example of intonation which has great positive effect on all living organisms. The symbol OM (AUM) is both articulate and inarticulate. Mere chanting of OM has extraordinary effect on human beings. The two aspects of OM together help an individual to realise Brahman, God of the Upanishads.