Begin with Om

tasmādomityudāhṛtya yajñadānatapaḥkriyāḥpravartante vidhānoktāḥ satataṃ brahmavādinām

So those devoted to Brahman always begin their offerings, gifts and disciplines, as taught, by saying Om.

What it means

Krishna explains. Those who seek Brahman begin every yajna, gift and act of tapas with Om. Saying it is like turning toward the infinite before you act. It doesn't magically make an act holy. It sets an intention, reminding you what the act is really for.

The story

Arjuna has heard priests begin every ceremony with Om. Krishna explains that it's a doorway, stepping from the ordinary into the sacred.

In your life

Think of an athlete who takes one deep breath before every race, settling into purpose. Before your next important task, pause, take one breath, and remember why you're doing it.