How to Cultivate Love for God - Swami Ashokananda

Part III

But the specific practice under this category is japa, that is to say, repetition of the name. It is done in either of these three ways: You can repeat it loudly, as I am talking now, articulately; others would be able to hear it. Or you do it whisperingly—only those close to you can hear; or you do it mentally. This last is, of course, the best way, but if the mind has a tendency of wandering around, then better you do it whisperingly, but you should be very careful that you don’t do it where others can hear it. And if you find that even then the mind is not controlled, then do it loudly, but you should also be careful that others don’t hear it. Generally, it is done mentally.

Now, the beauty of japa is that a word produces within you its associated idea, and an idea, deepened, produces the sense of its reality. That’s the philosophical basis of it. There are different opinions about that philosophy, but as regards the effect of japa, there cannot be any doubt about it. As you repeat the name of God, the consciousness of God becomes clearer and clearer within you; eventually it becomes vivid.

You usually get a name from a teacher. Indian languages are very rich in the names of God, and each name represents God in a special way. The name the teacher tells you to repeat represents the way you want to think about God; and is just the right thing for you. So you repeat it and repeat it. It is said that if you don’t do anything but practice the repetition of the name of God, spending hours and hours doing it, your mind will become purified and calm, your senses will lose their appetites, and God will come nearer and nearer to you. Chaitanya said:

© "Ascent to Spiritual Illumination" published by Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati, Champawat, Himalayas from its Publication Department, 5 Dehi Entally Road, Kolkata 700 014.Website: www.advaitaonline.com. Part I of this article appeared in Splendour, October 2005 issue. Reprinted with permission.

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