GENDER OF MANTRAS

In the study of Vedic tradition, mantras are often classified by gender. This classification is symbolic, highlighting the qualities and energies each chant represents. Understanding these distinctions helps practitioners connect with the intended spiritual force behind the mantra.

Masculine chants are generally associated with strength, protection, and authority. They are used when invoking divine power for courage, willpower, or leadership. Feminine chants symbolize nurturing, compassion, and creation, often connected with prosperity, fertility, and healing. Neuter chants represent balance, neutrality, and universality, transcending duality and focusing on harmony.

The classification does not refer to physical gender but rather to energetic qualities. This reflects the cosmic principles of Shiva and Shakti, or the balance of active and receptive forces in the universe. By identifying the gender of a chant, practitioners can align their practice with specific energies and intentions.

Mantra gender are of different types viz.

According to tantras the mantras are categorised in three genders. The mantras could be categorised as

Masculine

Feminine

Neutral mantras.

All these mantras enjoy equal powers and are no way inferior to each other. If a Mantra ends with swah then it is called feminine Mantra. Such mantras arc mostly used for menial aim and considered best. Namaha is suffixed at the end of the neutral mantras. These mantras are mostly used for the purpose of magic and enmity.

In tantras it is mentioned that if the Mantra is having hum phat at its end then the Mantra is masculine and if there is hum-namah then it is neutral.