1. INTRODUCTION TO THE MYSTERIES OF THE HARE KRISHNA MANTRA
The Hare Krishna mantra, also known as the Maha Mantra, is the most famous and important sacred song of Krishna-consciousness. As part of a tradition spanning thousands of years, the mantra aims to bring people closer to divine consciousness and spiritual enlightenment.
A brief historical review
The Hare Krishna mantra appears in ancient Indian scriptures, especially the Vedas and the Puranas. Although, it existed even before these texts. In fact, it is an eternal and living mantra, not only here in the material world, but in the spiritual world, too. The use and significance of the chanting of the mantra has continued for thousands of years and has become particularly widespread as part of the Bhakti movement. In the 16th century, Caitanya Mahaprabhu, a prominent figure of Gaudiya Vaisnavism, and one of Krishna’s incarnations, bestowed us all the Maha mantra. So did for you, too!
The meaning and words of the mantra
The Hare Krishna mantra is:
Hare Krisna, Hare Krisna, Krisna Krisna, Hare Hare,
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
The word Hare is the call for Radha, the beloved of Krishna, which is a manifestation of divine energy or divine love. Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead, his name means “attractive to all”. Rama is the source of divine joy.
The Hare Krishna movement (Krishna-consciousness) and its founder Srila Prabhupada
The Hare Krishna Mantra and the teachings of Gaudiya Vaisnavism became known worldwide in the 20th century, due to the activity of Srila Prabhupada, who arrived in the United States in 1965. Srila Prabhupada established the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), commonly known as the Hare Krishna movement. Through his work, the mantra and the teachings associated with it have reached millions, and the centres, temples and communities of ISKCON operate all over the world. Srila Prabhupada’s goal was to enable people to understand the importance of Krishna’s consciousness, and to practice the process of bhakti yoga through chanting.
2. THE BASICS OF MANTRA CHANTING
Chanting, i.e. repeating sacred texts, is one of the most important elements of spiritual practice in many religions, including Krishna-consciousness.
What is chanting and why is it important
The purpose of chanting is to raise the mind and soul of the practitioner into a higher state of consciousness and to establish direct contact with the divine energy and Krishna himself. The vibration of sounds and the intention associated to them help to clear the mind from negative thoughts and emotions, thus promoting inner peace, clarity, and the uplifting of the mind. Chanting is one of the most important ways of expressing devotion and faith to the Godhead, which strengthens the faith and commitment of the believer.
The technique of japa (personal chanting)
The japa is a personal practice of repeating the mantra in silence or quietly, usually with the help of a mala, a garland of prayer beads. The mala consists of 108 beads, and each repetition of the mantra is performed on one of them. The practitioner goes round from one of the beads until he returns to the beginning. During chanting, the practitioner focuses entirely on the words and meaning of the mantra, avoiding disturbing thoughts. It is performed daily at regular intervals, preferably at the same time and place.
The importance of kirtan (communal chanting)
Kirtan is a communal form of chanting, where believers sing the mantra as a group, often accompanied by musical instruments. Kirtan brings believers together, strengthening community bonds and the spiritual experience. The dynamics and energy of communal singing enhance the enthusiasm of the participants and deepen the experience of chanting. Kirtan helps individuals raise their spiritual vibration and get into a higher state of consciousness that brings them closer to the divine presence.
3. THE SPIRITUAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF THE MANTRA
The regular practice of Hare Krishna mantra has significant effects not only from a spiritual but also from a psychological point of view. Chanting and repeating the mantra affects the practitioner’s life in many ways, promoting inner peace, emotional stability, and achieving a higher state of consciousness.
The effect of mantra on consciousness and soul
Regular repetition of the mantra helps to clear the mind from negative thoughts and emotions. Singing the names of God will drive away anxiety, fear, and depression, bringing peace and tranquility to us.
It is a tool that enables the practitioner to get in direct contact with Krishna. This connection can bring deep spiritual experiences and help the soul find divine love and joy.
Chanting and repeating the mantra supports the self-realization process of us individuals, helping to understand our own spiritual nature.
The benefits of mantra chanting for meditation and relaxation
During the repetition of the mantra, the practitioner fixes his mind on a point, which in return improves concentration and mental focus. This can be especially useful in everyday life, where our focus is often discursive.
Chanting reduces stress and anxiety through its calming effect. Regular exercise helps balance the nervous system and reduce cortisol levels, which is the stress hormone.
The constant rhythm and vibration of chanting causes a state of relaxation that promotes physical and mental well-being. After chanting, people often feel calmer, more balanced and more energetic.
Scientific research and reports on the effects of mantras
Many studies have proven that mantras have a positive effect on brain function, improving memory and cognitive function. During chanting, the activity of the prefrontal cortex increases, which develops a state, similar to meditation.
Many practitioners report that mantra chanting have changed their lives, improving their mental health, emotional stability, and spiritual deepening.
4. HOW TO START CHANTING THE MANTRA
Practicing Hare Krishna mantra is available to everyone and can be started with simple steps.
Basic steps to practicing the japa
1. Prepare spiritually: start practicing with a calm and clear mind. Take a few deep breaths and focus on the mantra.
2. Use a mala: start with the main bead (Krishna bead), and go around repeating the mantra, bead-by-bead.
3. Focus on the mantra: repeat the mantra either loud, quietly or in your mind, but always focusing on the words and their meanings.
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare,
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
4. Do japa regularly: try and spend some time on mantra chanting every day. You can start with 5-10 minutes a day, then gradually increase the time.
5. Be persistent: practicing japa requires regularity and perseverance. Do not be discouraged if concentration seems difficult at first.
Recommended time and location for mantra chanting
The best time for chanting mantras is the early morning hours when your surroundings are quiet and calm. This period is especially favourable for meditation and spiritual practice.
Evening hours are also suitable for mantras, especially at the time of the end of the day relaxation.
Find a place with the least distractions. It can be a room at home, a park or a church. If you have the opportunity, visit holy places, churches or community centres where you can enjoy the experience of communal chanting!
Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them
- Lack of attention: one of the most common error triggers is the discursiveness of thoughts during chanting. Try to consciously return to the mantra when you notice that you are wandering away.
- Repeat too fast or too slow: it is important to keep the rhythm of the mantra steady. Do not hurry, but do not slow down the pace of the repetitions too much.
- Mechanical repetition: avoid making mantra chanting a mechanical process. Always try to focus on meaning and feeling.
- Systematic: the key is regularity. Try chanting at the same time every day to develop the habit.
- Disturbances: if your environment is noisy or disturbing, try to find a quieter place or time to practice.
5. TOOLS AND AIDS FOR CHANTING
The tools and aids used during chanting help practitioners to deepen their practice and support spiritual development.
Use of a mala (garland of prayer beads)
It is a string of 108 beads that helps to count the repetitions of the mantra and maintain concentration. During the chanting, the practitioner begins with the main bead of the mala (Krishna bead), then with each repetition he continues with a bead until he reaches the beginning bead. Its use helps keep the rhythm and an even pace during chanting.
The role of the altar
The practitioner can make a simpler version of the temple altar at home by installing pictures, or even statues of the Godhead. The altar is a sacred place for practice, which helps the practitioner focus on spirituality and develop a sense of sacredness.
We often decorate the altar with flowers, incense sticks and other sacred objects. The careful decoration of the altar helps to deepen and develop personal relationship with the Godhead.
The role of the community and the guru in practice
Without the support and guidance of the community and the guru, practitioners can easily deviate from the path or get lost in practice. Participation in the community allows practitioners to share experiences, inspire and help each other develop.
The guidance and wisdom of the guru or spiritual teacher is essential for the right practice and for staying on the right path.
Why is accent and pronunciation important?
Right accent and correct pronunciation help to keep the original vibrations and energy of the mantra. Correct pronunciation will help the practitioner fully immerse in the process of chanting and achieve the deepest state of concentration.
Moreover, doesn’t everyone here in the material world like to have their names pronounced correctly? Krishna opines just the same.
6. Final thoughts
Inspiring stories from famous devotees
Many famous personalities, including musicians, writers and scientists, shared inspiring stories about the practice of the Hare Krishna mantra and its positive effects. Their example shows that the practice of mantra can be accessible and useful to everyone in different areas of life. Some examples:
George Harrison: the legendary guitarist of the Beatles met the Hare Krishna movement and Srila Prabhupada in the late 1960’s. It greatly influenced him, so he regularly participated in chanting and community singing. Later, his music also featured Hindu and Sanskrit elements, such as the song “My Sweet Lord”, based on the Hare Krishna mantra. Harrison spoke openly about the practice of the mantra and its importance in his life.
Allen Ginsberg: American poet and writer. In his 1969 poem “Hare Krishna”, he summarized the spiritual experiences inherent in the chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra. In the poem he describes how the mantra led him into a state of inner peace and joy.
Boy George: the British singer, known for his fancy style, spoke openly in numerous interviews about mantra chanting, his religious beliefs and experiences. These experiences also influenced his music and art.
Russell Brand: the British comedian and actor spoke openly about mantra chanting and his feelings for the Hare Krishna movement. Chanting and meditation have become an important part of his life in recovering from his addictions.
The importance of mantra in the modern world
In our modern world, where stress, anxiety and the rapid pace of life are challenging us, practicing Hare Krishna mantra chanting is of especially great importance. This practice gives us the opportunity to find inner peace, reduce stress and discover the deeper meaning of life.
Encouragement to continue practicing
In any practice, whether it is chanting or anything else, constant perseverance and commitment are key elements. We encourage everyone not to stop practicing, even if it sometimes seems difficult! Persistence and regularity will be highly beneficial in the long run.
Hare Krishna!