Comparison and Contrast of Hindi Mantras and Korean Shaman Songs.
Mantras take varied forms and are used in many contexts, purposes, and emotions.
The word mantra comes from a root, which means "that which protects the mind." It aims not only to achieve some specific end, but through the process of integration of the body, mind, and spirit, the very evolution of man into a well being. Priests of Hinduism, recite mantras, which are previously set chants to be in contact with a particular god. Another religion that originated from Asia and employs the use of verbal devotion is Shamanism. Surviving many millenniums, Shamanism is the oldest folk belief of the Korean people. The principles that underlay Shamanism are that every natural object in the world has a soul. In the view of Korean Shamanism, human beings come into the world as integral parts of the rhythm of nature. Korean shamans practice their way of communication to the deities by narrative and lyrical songs. The magical power of songs is all too well known as a universal element in most shaman rituals. While mantras and shaman songs may appear unalike, they are comparable because they are both rituals and sacred acts. .
Mantras and Korean shaman songs both are forms of sacred and traditional prayers, which serve as a means of communication between man and the deities. Both are forms of religious practices that originated in Asia and act as a method to subordinate oneself to a higher being. Mantra and Korean shaman songs both have unique songs or .
chants that pertain to a particular god or spirit for an exclusive desire. The art of achieving their desires is carried out through their song and chant. Mantra is an invocation, containing a sacred syllable or set of syllables. Generally, the sole purpose of a mantra is to ask for something from the deities. Each mantra has a specific purpose and must be performed in a particular manner.