CHANT OF GOD NAME

To yield a good crop in the field of God’s name remembrance (nāmasmaraṇa), the first requirement is righteous conduct. Good conduct acts like a protective fence around the field. The second essential aspect is a pure heart, which is like rich, well-tilled soil. This soil needs to be cleared of stones and weeds—meaning the heart should be free from hatred, jealousy, and negativity towards others.

Once the heart is cleansed, remembrance of God’s name becomes meaningful. This remembrance is the seed sown into that field. But the seed must be of high quality—meaning, the name should be chanted selflessly, not for any personal gain. A true seed is one sown purely for the love of the name itself.

Then come pilgrimages, the blessings of saints, and their grace—all of which are like irrigation from canals. These help the crop to flourish. The final and most vital element is divine grace, which is like rainwater. Unlike canal water that can be controlled and directed from a well, lake, or river, rain is beyond human control. One may prepare the field diligently and plant the best seeds, but without rain, a good harvest isn’t guaranteed.

However, there is something special about the field of nāmasmaraṇa: it has a magnetic power of its own. It never goes completely to waste. Consider two farmers—one who dutifully cultivates his field and the other who is lazy and neglects it. When the rain falls, the field of the diligent one will thrive, while the other’s will not. God’s grace rains equally on all, but only those who have prepared their hearts benefit from it.

In essence, the rules that apply in worldly farming also apply in spiritual practice. God and saints have equal vision for all; they are impartial. There is no bias in the divine. When we are ready, His grace naturally flows to us. It is our responsibility to prepare ourselves with the right mindset. Saints can guide us, but they cannot act on our behalf. If we perceive any inequality in their grace, the reason lies within us.

With a sincere and pure heart, if one takes God’s name, one will surely experience divine grace.