If you attend a Brahma Kumaris class or watch one of their programmes, you will hear the same greeting again and again: Om Shanti. It is used to say hello, to begin a talk, to end a meditation and even to answer the phone.
This article explains the meaning of Om Shanti in the Brahma Kumaris tradition and how you can use it as a one-second meditation. The free 7-day Rajyoga course in English begins on Thursday, 12 November 2026, from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM IST.
What the words mean
In many traditions, shanti means peace, and Om Shanti is a common prayer or closing phrase. In Brahma Kumaris teaching, the words carry a specific meaning: Om refers to “I, the soul”, and Shanti to peace. Together, Om Shanti is understood as “I am a peaceful soul.”
The Brahma Kumaris explain on their official website that the greeting is an affirmation of our original nature rather than only a wish for peace.
More than a greeting
When two people say Om Shanti to each other, the idea is that each reminds the other of who they are beyond names, roles and positions. It is a meeting of two souls rather than two job titles.
For this reason, Om Shanti is often described as a short meditation in itself. Saying it with attention brings the mind back to the awareness of the soul.
A one-second meditation
- Before you say Om Shanti, pause for a breath.
- Silently remember: “I am a peaceful soul.”
- Say the words calmly, and notice the slight shift in your state.
You can use this before entering a room, starting a call or answering a message. It pairs naturally with the traffic control pause.
Using Om Shanti in difficult moments
When a conversation heats up, silently saying “Om Shanti” can create a moment of distance from the reaction. It does not solve the problem by itself, but it helps you respond from a steadier state.
Do I have to use the greeting?
No. Participants in the course are welcome to greet others in whatever way is natural to them. Many find that they start using Om Shanti because they enjoy the reminder it brings.
Questions about Om Shanti
Is Om Shanti a mantra to be chanted?
In the Brahma Kumaris tradition, it is not used as a repeated chant. It is an awareness, remembered with meaning rather than repetition.
Why do speakers begin talks with Om Shanti?
It is a way of settling both speaker and listeners into a peaceful state before sharing knowledge.
Who can say Om Shanti?
Anyone. It is a simple reminder of inner peace, open to people of every background.
Join the free Rajyoga course on 12 November 2026
The next free 7-day Rajyoga meditation course in English begins on Thursday, 12 November 2026. Beginners are welcome, and no earlier experience of meditation is needed.
- Time: 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM IST
- Duration: Seven days
- Language: English
- Fee: Free, open to seekers worldwide
- Format: Live online classes on Zoom, with YouTube Live details shared in the WhatsApp group
All course updates and Zoom joining details are shared in the group. Save the session time in your calendar. If you live outside India, see our time zone guide before the first class.
For course enquiries, message +91 87505 46965 on WhatsApp or email hiteshchhabra91@gmail.com. Read the complete course announcement for full details. Please check with the organisers about recordings or certificates; neither is promised here.
