The mantra "OM MANI PADME HUM" translates "the Jewel is in the lotus", meaning that enlightenment is in the everyday world. The purpose of mantras is to rebirth the self; a refreshment of the self. Mantras are a very powerful way to reduce negative energies and effects. Buddhist do believe that chanting may produce a force that will reduce negative karma, accumulate merit, rescue himself from suffering in the next life.