This inner “I Am” is the nature of the Self. It is called the “unbeaten sound” (anahat) that originates from within, as it is not produced externally. The “I Am” feeling itself is “Soham.” This unbeaten, internal chanting of “Soham” goes on all throughout one’s life in the form of the breath, over 20,000 times a day. Although the individual seems to be the body, it is the Self that truly identifies with the body. This is the power of Illusion.
Shri Sadguru Siddharameshwar Maharaj
Amrut Laya – The Stateless State
Soham-Hamsa and Hari Om are important mantras, by repeating which the Self can be realized. One who has full knowledge of the Self becomes cool like the moon. The most natural state, which is free of any action, is the true Self. That state is beyond the intellect and free of all concepts. One is naturally in that state after Self-realization. You can always see without seeing – with your eyes closed – the deep blue shade which is very natural. It is formless. The Self cannot be seen. It is our direct perception of our being. With closed eyes you see the dark blue canopy over the Self.
Self-Love, The Original Dream: Shri Nisargadatta Maharaj’s Direct Pointers To Reality
Soham-Haunsa (I am That) and Hari Om are mantras which help to realize the Self. The knower of Self is cool and peaceful like the moon. Our true nature is the most easy and natural state, which is experienced without doing anything. In it there is no intellect and there are no concepts. This state follows Self-realization. When you close your eyes, you see dark blue, which is easy, natural and formless. It is called as Ghanashyama. Self is invisible, which cannot be seen by deliberate effort. It gives us our sense of being.
Self-Love, The Original Dream: Shri Nisargadatta Maharaj’s Direct Pointers To Reality
20. The meaning behind the statements “Soham” (I am He), “Hansa” (He is I), and “Tatvamasi” (You are That) is that you are Brahman. With investigation and subtle thoughtfulness one easily arrives at That state.
Chapter: 13, Sub-Chapter: 2 Explanation of Essence and Non-Essence
Dasbodh
There is the term “I Am” (Soham). “I Am” is continuously being repeated day and night. Without speaking a word, it is a constant awareness. The word “japa” in Sanskrit has one meaning as “repetition,” but it has another meaning in Marathi, which is “to take care of,” or to protect, or nurture. This is all automatic. In all the bodies of all creatures the repetition of the soundless sound “Soham,” and “Hamsa,” is continuous with the breathing. By understanding this a man is free of all bondage. In all creatures, the awareness of “I Am” is constant.
Shri Sadguru Siddharameshwar Maharaj
Master of Self-Realization – An Ultimate Understanding