Guest guest Posted March 16, 2001 Report Share Posted March 16, 2001 ============================================================= This article is emailed to you by Ram Chandran ( rchandran ) ============================================================= Source: The Hindu (http://www.the-hindu.com) Chanting of holy names changes one's outlook CHENNAI, MARCH 16. Repeated emphasis has been and is being placed by saints, those who sing Divine glory and those who, by their lectures, bring hope to the tormented souls, on the efficacy of chanting God's names. They point out how this simple method can fetch peace and enable the person who resorts to this recipe to enjoy communion with the Almighty. This easy step can be adopted by anyone and at all times and is hence particularly suited to men of modern days who are always in a hurry. An aspirant who takes recourse to this path of devotion through constant repetition of Divine names after systematically hearing all about God's merciful qualities from the mouths of spiritual guides, will gain the highest spiritual wealth. How does chanting change the outlook of a person and what transformation can it bring, it may be asked. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, believed to be a manifestation of Lord Krishna, who, carrying the burning torch of Truth and Justice proclaimed to the world the power of the Divine name, has explained that it purifies the soul from the dirts settled therein like forgetfulness of the Supreme due to its affinity with worldly objects. Comparing the soul to a mirror, he says that when the surface is dusted, the reflection will be clear and likewise the soul, when polished through the utterance of Divine name will present the real character. Secondly, chanting will extinguish the flames of worldly life and make the devotee take to the service of God. Thirdly, singing the Divine glory will bestow spiritual well-being and release him from bondage. Fourthly, ignorance will be wiped out and unalloyed devotion will get strengthened, resulting in the enjoyment of Bliss, without interruption. Finally, all the gross and subtle propensities will be totally washed away and the devotee will reveal his eagerness to get engaged in Divine service without expecting any return. Sri Chaitanya, who appeared on the spiritual horizon in 1486, on one occasion, fell into a trance during his singing and dancing, his body became swollen, his bones were dislocated but kept together just by a layer of skin. By the constant chanting of Krishna's name by his devotees into his ears, he regained his normal stance. Speakers at a function recalled Sri Chaitanya's contribution through his works, travel and main prayer work called ``Shikshashtakam'' while celebrating his advent day. The Mahaprabhu says that when a devotee sincerely utters the Divine names, he will surely acquire the quality of humility, show kindness to everyone, avoid developing inexplicable prejudice and will respect all. Copyrights: 2001 The Hindu & indiaserver.com, Inc. Republication or redissemination of the contents of this screen are expressly prohibited without the consent of The Hindu & indiaserver.com, Inc. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.