The Universal Prayer
Written by Swami Sivananda, the Universal Prayer in the Sivananda tradition is a recitation of inspiring, uplifting and humbling verses that acknowledge and praise the Higher Power within each individual. It calls for integrity, proper character and divine virtues and affirms the art of right living. In fact, every facet of Yoga and yogic philosophy is encompassed within these words. The supplications are relevant to every religion, culture, creed and system of belief. Hence the title, ‘Universal.’
Words and affirmations, when recited with feeling and attention, become stronger with each repetition and saturate the essence of their meaning into the subconscious mind, eventually manifesting into reality. This is why prayers, psalms, hymns and mantras are so powerful. It is because they materialize the intention of the words being spoken.
The Universal Prayer is usually proclaimed in unison during satsang (spiritual gatherings), but can also be delivered during the yoga session or as part of one’s own personal practice. Be sure to speak the words with awareness and feeling and allow their vibrations to set the intention for inner peace, self-improvement and the well-being of the whole world.
The Universal Prayer
O Adorable Lord of Mercy and Love
Salutations and prostrations unto Thee
Thou art Omnipresent, Omnipotent and Omniscient
Thou art Saccidānanda
Thou art Existence, Knowledge and Bliss Absolute
Thou art the Indweller of all beings.
Grant us an understanding heart, equal vision,
Balanced mind, faith, devotion and wisdom.
Grant us inner spiritual strength
To resist temptation and control the mind.
Free us from egoism, lust, anger, greed, hatred and jealousy.
Fill our hearts with Divine Virtues.
Let us behold Thee in all these names and forms.
Let us serve Thee in all these names and forms.
Let us ever remember Thee.
Let us ever sing Thy glories.
Let Thy name be ever on our lips.
Let us abide in Thee for ever and ever.
Andrea,
Again, I thank you for your posts. They help me find my center especially during these stressful times. I have found that I do best by reciting these types of things over and over again. Do you happen to have a recording of the Universal Prayer that you like best? Perhaps one that you yourself have recorded? I’d be happy to download it and listen to it during my routine. Be well!
-Neil
You’re welcome Neil! Repeating the words yourself, with attention and feeling, is much more powerful than listening to a recording.
However, I’d be happy to send you one!
Hi, Thanks for the information. I like the concept of the Universal Prayer. Prayer should be universal and is a recitation of inspiring, uplifting and humbling poetry within each individual. Is Yoga a part of the universal prayer? Very interesting philosophy!
It most certainly is! Glad you found it useful, Anthony 🙂
Such a great prayer I must say. I never used to be spiritual but have been getting into the whole “manifestation” thing – manifesting things by asking the universe. It works, there’s no doubt about it, but you have to believe it and KNOW it’s going to happen. You just need to be patient. I like this prayer and will try it out myself. Cheers.
Well said, Brandon.
Thanks for sharing this “Universal Prayer”, which I assume was written some while back.
I understand some of what the “Universal Prayer” says but not all of it.
So is this “Higher Power” within each of us what’s commonly called “God”?
And are we speaking to our “Higher Self” when we say “Adorable Lord of Mercy”, I wonder?
Higher Power, God, Buddha, Krishna, Allah… It’s all different names for the same thing. And each individual will incorporate this prayer according to what fits in for them.
Hi Andrea, I really enjoyed The Universal Prayer. I like how you introduced and explained what the Universal Prayer is. I must say It left me with a sense of peace within after I recited it. I will be sure to save it and recite The Universal Prayer often. Just reading this page was very calming lots of spiritual information.
Glad you liked it, Esme!