Japa is a Sanskrit word and has links to Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism and now modern aged spiritualist seekers and meditators. Let’s take a look at the five most Powerful Japa Meditation Chants.
The mantras have a profound effect on one’s consciousness when spoken or even thought (like a mantra). If you are familiar with affirmations or sound healing then you will know how powerful mantras can be! Japa meditation is no different.
Unlike other forms of meditation such as dynamic meditation, japa meditation does not follow a set structure.
In other words, it can be performed in many different ways such as sitting up in a meditative position, lying down, as part of a ceremonial worship or group activity, or whilst performing other activities.
Japa Roots
Japa is derived from the root word ‘jap’ which means to utter in a low voice, repeat internally, mutter. It is also often seen as being related to the Sanskrit words ja which literally translates as to destroy, birth- death- reincarnation; and pa which means to destroy one’s sins.
Therefore, is an almost sacred practice allowing you to connect to the core of yourself and let go of all that does not serve you, further entering a self process of death, destruction and rebirth. (Death of the ego and illusions!)
Intentions & Aims of Japa
The aims and intentions of this meditation practice all depend on your motivations and individual intended results. Some or all of the following intentions may apply to you personally (or you can make these your goals):
- To harness and develop self- awareness and self- realization.
- To connect the soul or spiritual self.
- To expand and develop/ enhance one’s consciousness.
- To bring deep states of peace, calm and inner clarity.
- To improve wisdom and increase one’s intuition or self- guidance.
- To better oneself in any number of ways (mentally, emotionally, physically or spiritually).
- To connect to the divine or some source of higher power. (God/ source/ spirit/ the universe/ the divine.)
- To contemplate the meaning and essence/ energy of the mantra.
- To shift negative thought patterns through repetition.
- Ultimately, to achieve a state known as ajapajapam. This is a state of mind and awareness in which the mantra recited repeats itself naturally. It becomes part of one’s consciousness for healing, self- development and self- evolution.
You can also use japa mala beads which are often used by Hindus and Buddhists in meditation- like mantra chants. The beads are seen and believed to connect the meditator or chanter to a divine power through self- communication and self- realization.
Japa mala beads can also act as a channel or spiritual tool for higher states of consciousness. Usually (and traditionally) there are 108 beads as this number holds a unique symbolic significance.
Finally, the mantras can be whispered, hummed, chanted, sung, muttered (the technical translation of the word japa), thought or spoken. They can be treated as a religious or spiritual offering or ceremony, or simply practiced for self- development.
The Powerful Japa Meditation Chants
Om
Om is one of the most powerful chants to learn and know as it is the sound of creation. It is known as the original sound from which all other sounds originate.
It is essentially the universe if the universe were to have a sound. Merging this into your meditation chants opens you up to a new world of possibilities, removes obstacles and blockages, and can shift your consciousness and perspective in new and profound ways.
Om can also be used as a precursor to any meditation or chant as it helps unblock the throat chakra- the energy center located by your throat.
Om Namah Shivaya
Shiva is your inner self or the divine consciousness within. We all have an inner shiva as we all have an inner masculine. Shiva is shakti’s counterpart, the dualistic energy of the predominantly feminine Shakti.
Reciting this mantra either through meditation, prayer or affirmations will allow you to become more in tune with your inner shiva and therefore your own inner divinity. It is known to many as the ‘God consciousness,’ the best and highest aspect of ourselves.
In short, this is a very powerful mantra- chant to incorporate into your meditations!
Om Mani Padme Hum
This mantra means hail to the jewel of the lotus. This is one to connect to and immerse into your meditation if you want to activate your consciousness in some way.
It can be used to connect to the divine, bring compassion and bring clarity, peace and calmness.
Shanti, Om Shanti
Shanti restores peace. It is the mantra or chant to use for peace and contentment, inner harmony and bliss.
The beauty with the simple shanti is that you can see what feels right for you. You may speak or say it ‘om shanti, shanti, shanti’ or ‘shanti, om shanti, om shanti, om.’ (Or any combination!)
Shanti is great if you have been going through severe stress, anxiety, nervous tension or any general life problem.
Om Gum Ganapatayei Namah
Om Gum Ganapatayei Namah can help remove obstacles in your life when performed as a chant during meditation.
This mantra has strong associations with Ganesha, the elephant deity which is known to bring protection and blessings.
For more information on how to access your higher self through meditations (and how to perform them if you are a beginner) please visit the following article – The Ancient Japa Mala Meditation Explained
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