The Narada Parivrajaka Upanishad belongs to the Atharvaveda and is one of the minor Upanishads classified under the Samnyasa Upanishads. It presents the dialogue between the sage Narada and the creator god Brahma on the nature of renunciation and the path of the wandering ascetic (parivrajaka). The final dhyana (meditation) mantras of this Upanishad are chanted to internalize the teachings of complete detachment and to realize the Atman as the sole reality. According to the Upanishad itself (Narada Parivrajaka Upanishad 1.1-2), the mantras are meant for one who has taken the vow of renunciation, emphasizing the rejection of all worldly attachments and the constant contemplation of Brahman.
The beej-akshara (seed syllable) 'Om' is central, representing the primordial sound and the ultimate reality. The phoneme 'Om' (ॐ) is analyzed as composed of 'A', 'U', and 'M', symbolizing the three states of waking, dream, and deep sleep, and the fourth state (turiya) beyond. The mantras invoke the qualities of the wandering sage: fearlessness, contentment, and unwavering focus on liberation. The traditional purpose is to aid the sannyasi in dissolving the ego and realizing the non-dual Self.
Chanting is recommended during the brahma-muhurta (pre-dawn hours) or at twilight, with a count of 108 repetitions using a rudraksha mala. The ritual setting is simple: seated in a clean, solitary place, the practitioner visualizes Narada with his veena, symbolizing the harmony of the divine sound that leads to liberation. The Devi Mahatmya (Chapter 11, verse 3) similarly extols the power of meditation on the supreme Self. Cautions include that these mantras are traditionally reserved for those who have formally embraced the sannyasa order; householders may chant them for inspiration but should not adopt the external practices of a renunciate.
The Mantra-Yoga-Samhita (Chapter 5, verse 12) advises that such mantras should be received from a qualified guru to avoid misunderstanding. The ultimate benefit is the attainment of moksha (liberation) through the realization of the Atman as identical with Brahman, as affirmed in the Upanishad's closing verses.
Om. Let us meditate on Narada, the one with the veena in hand. May that Narada inspire and illuminate our intellect.
The mantra begins with the seed syllable 'Om' (ॐ), which is the primordial sound and represents the ultimate reality. It is composed of A, U, and M, symbolizing the three states of consciousness and the fourth state (turiya).