CHANT OF GOD NAME

Many people deeply wish to engage in devotion to God and remember His name, but for various reasons, they are unable to do so. Why does this happen? Because illusion stands in the way. Now, how does one reach God by setting aside this illusion? Illusions is like a shadow of God — telling God, “Come without your shadow” is like saying, “Do not come at all,” for it is impossible for a shadow to be separated from the one it belongs to. In the same way, illusions will always exist alongside God.

The question then is not about removing illusion, but about how to reach God despite it. And the only answer is through the remembrance of God’s name. By calling out to God’s name, one can break free from the grip of Maya and move closer to Him. Just as a shadow has no existence without the person casting it, illusion has no independent power of its own. If a man walks east, his shadow follows. If that shadow wanted to turn west, it would be impossible — unless the man himself turns. In this way, illusion is completely dependent on God. The entire universe is a reflection of illusion, which in turn is the shadow of God — meaning God alone is the ultimate foundation of everything.

Now, how to escape illusions  hold and reach God? Imagine a person wanting to meet a great master but is unable to approach directly because of guards, dogs, and other obstacles at the gate. The only way to gain entry is by presenting a letter, signed by the master himself, inviting him to come on a specific day. On seeing the master’s signature, the guard will allow him in without protest. In the same way, God’s name acts like a divine signature, a letter of invitation. If we carry this name with us, illusion, the gatekeeper, will recognize it and let us pass — bringing us directly to God.

Therefore, the most effective way to cross illusion is through constant remembrance of God’s name. One should immerse so deeply in it that the awareness of the body fades away. To forget one’s body-consciousness while remembering God’s name — this is what it means to become detached from worldly illusions. If God seems miserly, it is in granting the love for His name. He may give everything else easily, but rarely does He bestow this intense love for His name. Hence, this is what we must ask for: love for God’s name.

We should keep our mind continuously engaged in remembering God’s name and live joyfully. Desires and cravings are the memories of illusion, while remembering the name is the remembrance of God.