Concrete Invocation and Abstract Liberation
The answer is based on the provided sources, where a distinction is made between mantras that contain the names of specific deities and abstract mantras directed toward the impersonal Absolute that bestows liberation.As noted in the source " link txt":"Mantras come in 'concrete' types (containing the names of 'deities' – Krishna, Shiva, Saraswati, etc.) and 'abstract' ones, addressed to the impersonal Absolute that bestows liberation and entry into samadhi, 'merging with the Absolute.'"The mantra "OM NAMAH SHIVAYA" belongs to the concrete category since it contains the name of Shiva. In such cases, according to the materials, its repeated recitation is intended to establish direct contact with the divine entity of that name. As emphasized in the source " link txt":"Mantras come in 'concrete' types (i.e., containing the names of 'specific deities' – Krishna, Shiva, Saraswati, etc.) and 'abstract' ones, addressed to the impersonal Absolute that bestows liberation, entry into the state of samadhi, 'merging with the Absolute.' If one recites the mantra persistently for a long time, one may be graced with a visit from this deity, communication with him, and the fulfillment of one’s desires."Thus, reciting the mantra "OM NAMAH SHIVAYA" contributes to establishing a connection with Shiva, which may lead to a state of bliss, communication with the divine entity, and a transformation of one’s inner worldview. However, complete liberation, understood as an exit from phenomenal life (samsara), is traditionally attributed to abstract mantras aimed at merging with the impersonal Absolute.In summary, the mantra "OM NAMAH SHIVAYA" holds deep spiritual significance as a concrete invocation to Shiva. Its repetition can contribute to powerful inner transformation and establishing contact with divine energy, even though achieving final liberation from samsara is more often associated with abstract mantras.