Gayatri is a Vedic Hindu Goddess. She is also a Sanskrit meter, comprising 24 syllables to the verse. Gayatri is also the divine attitude of incessant, relentless pursuit of wisdom. Gayatri is the mantric vibration with which we greet the rising sun and therefore She signifies beginnings. Gayatri has become omnipresent throughout Vedic literature as the feminine form of Divinity, the feminine expression of the light of the Sun, the pure Light of Wisdom and the continuous prayer for greater enlightenment and awareness applied to every circumstance in life.The Thousand Names of Gayatri shares the most succinct philosophies, subtle ethics, and greatest ideals of spiritual perfection. Her Thousand Names (Sahasranam) are expressed poetically in alphabetical order, with rhyme and metric perfection; rhythms of mathematical perfection, and spiritual blessings in full force. No wonder great Sages and Seers have bowed reverently at the majesty of thought presented by the Gayatri Sahasranam.
Gayatri Sahasranam: Class 1
Introduction and Worship
In this video class Swami Satyananda Saraswati shares with us a story from within Hindu spirituality about the Goddess Gayatri and the Vedic seer Visvamitra. While Visvamitra was absorbed in prayer and meditation the Divine Mother was very pleased and blessed him, while also revealing to him the glories of her Gayatri Mantra. The Vedic Sanskrit mantras are first chanted and then Satyananda gives a beautiful translation in English.
Gayatri Sahasranam: Class 2
Gayatri Viddhi and Kumari Puja
In this class there is specific Sanskrit mantras that are chanted and discussed in relation to the worship of Gayatri Mantra. The Gayatri viddhi, or the system of worship with Gayatri is presented in great detail with the meanings of the Vedic mantras. Also, Kumari worship (the Ever Pure One) is described. The mantras are chanted in Sanskrit and then translated into English.
Gayatri Sahasranam: Class 3
Verses 1 to 32, Name 1 to 150
This class starts with the melodic chanting of the Gayatri Stotram. The stotram or song is in presented in anustup meter, which has 32 syllables to the verse. In the video class the Vedic mantras are first chanted in the Sanskrit combined with a yoga technique called pranayama (breath control) and then they are translated into English.
Gayatri Sahasranam: Class 4
Verses 33 to 51, Name 151 to 301
In this video class we continue with the Vedic Sri Gayatri Sahasranam. These verses are full of bhakti (devotion), for the Goddess. The Sanskrit mantras can be used as a daily sadhana (practice) to guide the mind toward God and be immersed in meditation. All of the Vedic mantras will first be chanted and then translated into English.
Gayatri Sahasranam: Class 5
Verses 54 to 75, Name 302 to 456
Gayatri Sahasranam continues: the Vedic seers mathematically and alphabetically comprised this praise of the Goddess with the most sincere bhakti (devotion). Contemplation of the complexity alone can bring ones mind to a state humility for the seers. First, the Sanskrit mantras are chanted, then there is an eloquent English translation.
Gayatri Sahasranam: Class 6
Verses 76 to 96, Name 457 to 598
This video class continues the Vedic mantras of Mother Gayatri. This particular recitation, Gayatri Sahasranam has 32 syllables per verse, and can be paired with yogic pranayama (breathing exercise). By coordinating your breath with the mantras the mind will automatically focus and therefore it will bring about a state of peace and relaxation. In this video class the Sanskrit mantras will be chanted and then the English translation will be presented.
Gayatri Sahasranam: Class 7
Verses 97 to 118, Name 599 to 744
Gayatri Maa continues to shower us with blessings in this video class. Her Sanskrit names (attributes) pervade all aspects of our being. Gayatri translates to: Wisdom of the Three. She is not affected by anything in the three worlds, she is always established in truth. The Sanskrit mantras will be chanted first, followed by a beautiful translation in English.
Gayatri Sahasranam: Class 8
Verses 119 to 139, Name 745 to 895
In this class the Vedic mantras are perpetually flowing guiding us back to light. Our inner light is hidden behind veils of ignorance and tendencies. These mantras will assist in pealing off the layers to reveal the gem, the Self. Continue to dive deep into Mothers names as we view this video class. The mantras will be chanted in Vedic Sanskrit and then translated into English.
Gayatri Sahasranam: Class 9
Verses 140, Name 896 to End
In this video class the Sahasranam will come to an end, however the vibrations will forever continue to guide us with Her wisdom. Listen intently and show Mother Gayatri that we want to live a life of spirituality and prayer. Constantly remember her names in your heart and mind and merge with the One. After the mantras are chanted in Sanskrit, a beautiful English translation is provided.