From Spaced out to Tuned in Chanting
From disconnection to connection leading to absorption – How can we undertake this daily journey in our lives?
Who Deserves the Title of ‘Jagat Vandaniya’?
How can the so-called politicians and reformers of this world, engrossed in their personal and party agendas, be worshipped by the entire world? Can they really work for the welfare of all living beings without discrimination and expectation? If we reflect, it is only the followers of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu who have worked selflessly, even to the point of risking their lives by entering communist nations, to share love of God. Prabhupada is the embodiment of such sacrifice.
Consumed … by What ?
What do you wish to get consumed by? Our consumption defines our position and disposition, and ultimately, affects our destination.
Just DANCE!
I was never someone who liked to dance. But, in Mahaprabhu’s sankirtana movement, dancing isn’t optional; it’s essential! Prabhupada not only made the whole world dance in spiritual joy, but he himself offered a heart-melting dance choreographed by Mahaprabhu’s intimate associates.
Why my Japa feels Heavy?
We may blame noise outside for our struggles in japa, but even ‘peaceful’ forests couldn’t save Ajamila. The real noise is within. When the heart is calm and free from offenses, the Holy Name flows like the unobstructed flow of Ganges.
Should We Pray with Eyes Open or Closed?
When we talk to someone, we look at them. Shouldn’t we do the same while praying to Krishna? Or is it better to close our eyes and focus within?
Inattentive More Chanting or Attentive Less Chanting?
In the process of chanting our 16 rounds, we often struggle with attentiveness. And inattentive chanting is said to be the 11th offense. If we chant extra rounds, and that too without much attention, won’t that cause further problems? The general solution that the acaryas give for progressing from nāmaparādha to nāmābhasa is continuous chanting. But if our existing rounds are filled with inattention, then won’t additional chanting lead to more offenses?
Topmost Purification by the Holy Name
Among all the processes available to a sadhaka for attaining spiritual perfection, chanting the holy name offers the highest purification of the heart. Although Krishna and His service are absolute—meaning there is no intrinsic difference between different services, chanting holds a unique prominence.