What it means
I bow to Shanaishchara. The name means the slow walker, and Saturn really is the slowest of the planets visible to the eye. Sham is his seed syllable.
Where it comes from
Jyotish sees Shani as the giver of the fruits of one's own actions: what you sow, you reap. So rather than fearing him, many teachers describe him as a teacher of discipline and patience. At shrines like Shani Shingnapur, Saturday brings long queues of people offering oil.
How to chant it
On Saturday evening, light a mustard-oil lamp, offer black sesame, and chant. Custom says to look at Shani's feet rather than straight into his eyes.
When: Saturday evenings. Shani Amavasya especially.
Try it now
The japa counter opens with this mantra selected and keeps count for you.
Questions people ask
In jyotish people chant it as a practice of patience and restraint. Don't treat it as a guarantee, and please don't base health or money decisions on it.