CHANT OF GOD NAME

When one begins to chant the divine name, various distracting thoughts—called “vikalpas”—start arising, and we often complain that our devotion weakens because of them. But what we fail to realize is that this very disturbance indicates the power of the name. The moment a person begins chanting sincerely, these subtle thoughts become restless, as if alarmed, realizing their end is near. They try their best to pull the person away from the practice.

These distractions are extremely subtle and deep-rooted. So to eliminate them, one needs an equally subtle and penetrating remedy. That remedy is the divine name of God. It is like this: if a snake enters a hole, shouting at it from outside won’t help. To drive it out, you must use something like smoke or hot water that penetrates its space and makes it uncomfortable to stay. Similarly, when you chant God’s name and distracting thoughts start surfacing, it means the name is reaching the very roots of those thoughts.

So instead of getting discouraged when distractions arise, take it as a good sign—proof that the name is working. With this awareness, one should commit even more earnestly to the practice of chanting. In the beginning, everyone has doubts about the power of the name, but only by persisting with it can one see those doubts and distractions slowly fade away. Mastery in anything comes through continuous practice. True devotion doesn’t arise simply; it grows through regular remembrance of God, and only then can one truly feel devotion in the heart.

Just as we encounter unpleasant people while walking on the road, similarly, disturbing thoughts will inevitably appear on the path of chanting. But we must continue on our way, focused. Sometimes, even when we try to ignore a troublesome person, he might cough or make a sound just to catch our attention. Likewise, thoughts may forcefully try to distract us. In such cases, even if your attention gets drawn to them, look at them with disinterest—but don’t stop chanting.

Even if doubts arise, let them come—but continue chanting. The name itself will begin clearing those doubts and slowly put a stop to the distractions.

In the end, much is wasted by overthinking. Once you firmly decide never to give up chanting, your mind naturally becomes free from doubt.