In the previous post I mentioned mantra and japa. I will now link that with the Yoga Sutras (YS) I-28 -TAJJAPAS TADARTHA BHAVANAM- To repeat it with reflection upon its meaning is an aid.Swami Satchidananda's comment is that in this sutra the practice of Japa is addressed. He states that it is a very powerful technique which is also the easiest, simplest and the best. He also says that most religion has some repetition of God's name. In the Hindu system a mantram or mystic word is given to the student to repeat. "The meaning of mantram is 'that which keeps the mind steady and produces the proper effect'. Its repetition is called japa."
It is easiest because it is portable. One does not have to go some place or do it at a particular time. The constant repetition or japa links the mind to God through the mantram while doing worldly pursuits. The meaning is not necessary in the beginning of the practice. When it becomes a firm habit, then you can wonder what you are repeating. Just like as you think, so you become, knowingly or unknowingly the qualities will come to you from the thing named. Swami Satchinanda mentions the mantra OM, which is the basis for all mantras. Further elaborated is how we can see the power of words in modern day advertisements. So with a pure mind, with japa you repeat the word and later feel the meaning.
Swami Muktananda says it is very important that the mantra is repeated with the goal of the mantra as one's own Self. Abusive words affects us immediately because we identify with the word. With the mantra japa we should identify with the object (God) . The mind will gradually merge into the mantra and become one with the Self.
2 comments:
The state of consciousness of realizing the oneness of God in yourself and everything is the "desired effect." I find that a mantra is not actually the words being spoken or thought of, but the actual feeling or experience that your consciousness perceives during the practice. In this way, we can see that the words themselves may be substituted for other words as long as the consciousness of the understanding remains.
No doubt. As I read your comment C.Om, what came to mind was the mantra is the road, the tool that connects you to that place within your Self. So of course the words, or mantras can be substituted. Many rivers lead to the ocean.
Thanks for your comments.
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