"The Beloved's Name
Is a mystical weave and pattern--
A hidden sieve of effulgence
We need to pass through thousands of
Times.
From my constance remembrance
of the Friend,
All I now say is safe to
Drink."
-Hafiz

Following is a series of excerpts from Pure Joy by Sondra Ray:

"Chanting is a type of singing that is both a form of praise and a form of purification. Chanting a mantra is one of the most powerful things you could do for yourself. A mantra is a sacred word, syllable, or set of words, which, through constant repetition and reflection... helps one attain perfection and God realization. "Japa" is a word used in the East to describe the act of repeating the mantra or repeating God's name.

The mantra is like nectar, nourishing you. It is like plugging yourself into the Source. It charges you up. It leads to remembering your total union with God. It enlivens the inner consciousness and helps us overcome suffering. It provides protection and brings inner peace. The chanting of God's Name or mantra is one of the best forms of devotion there is. Repetition of the mantra purifies the heart.

The name of God is also a cure for all disease. There was a case reported where doctors had pronounced the son of a landlord as dying -- the case was absolutely hopeless. Devotees took the case into their hands. They did continuous Kirtan day and night for seven days around the bed of the patient. (Kirtans are devotional songs containing the names or aspects of the diety worshipped.) The patient stood up on the seventh day and began to sing God's Name for himself. He had recovered completely.

The mantra is also a supreme pick-me-up in case you are going into gloom, despair, or low energy. Release DOES happen! By singing the Name of God, grace is evoked."

For more information on chanting, I love the books of Thomas Ashley Farrand, also known as Namadeva. Click here to visit his website: www.sanskritmantra.com

Japa mala beads are frequently used while chanting mantra. For the most beautiful selection of mala beads I have ever found, click here: www.japamalabeads.com