Budh Gayatri Mantra
ॐ बुद्धाय विद्महे सौम्यरूपाय धीमहि तन्नो बुधः प्रचोदयात्
Questions and Answers
What is the meaning of the Budh Gayatri Mantra?
It is the Gayatri-metre mantra of Budha, the planet Mercury. It means: "We meditate upon Budha, we contemplate his gentle form; may that Budha inspire our intellect." Budha is traditionally regarded as the karaka of intellect, speech, and reasoning.
How many times should this mantra be chanted?
Traditionally one mala — that is 108 repetitions — is considered auspicious. Students and practitioners commonly chant at least one mala daily as a steady practice.
Which day and time are considered best for chanting?
Wednesday is Mercury's day, so the mantra is traditionally chanted on Wednesday morning at sunrise. It is customary to wear green and sit facing north for the japa.
Who can chant it, and what benefits are traditionally associated?
Any devotee with faith may chant it; it is especially favoured by students and speakers. It is traditionally believed to support memory, clarity of speech, logical thinking, and the pacification of a weak Mercury in the horoscope. It is a practice of devotion, not a guarantee of any outcome.
