It is more beneficial to receive the Name (chant/mantra) from a True Guru (Sadguru).
Is it necessary to receive the Name only from a Sadguru, or can we take it as per our own liking? In reality, the Name of the Lord is self-sufficient and perfect; it does not require any external validation or completion. Therefore, whether one takes the Name from a Sadguru or chooses it according to personal preference, there is no difference in the essence of the Name itself. However, there is a unique significance when the Name is received from a Sadguru. The reason is, the Sadguru stands behind that Name with his spiritual power, and he greatly helps the disciple in the practice of chanting. With his strength, the disciple’s remembrance of the Name becomes effective, and one is saved from developing ego by thinking, “I am the one chanting the Name.”
By following the instructions of the Sadguru, the seeker gradually develops love for the Name, and through continuous remembrance, the soul becomes content and fulfilled. Hence, it is essential to receive the Name from a Sadguru. However, until one meets the Sadguru, it is necessary to continue with whatever Name-remembrance one can. In fact, it is this very remembrance that will eventually lead to the Sadguru’s grace and meeting. To be honest, meeting a saint is difficult in itself, and even if one does, trusting him is even harder. Therefore, one must continue with the practice of chanting the Name.
Just as sugar crystals do not need to invite ants, they naturally come looking for them, in the same way, become like sugar crystals — saints themselves will come running to you. To become like sugar crystals means to adopt conduct that is dear to the saints. What do saints like? Nothing other than constant remembrance of God and unbroken meditation on Him. Therefore, always keep the flame of the Name burning in your heart. The Sadguru will surely come searching for you and shower you with his grace.
Now, after receiving the Name from the Sadguru, someone might think, “I was already chanting ‘Ram Ram’, and the Sadguru has also given me the same Name. So, what is so special about it?” But this itself is the real point, because now you will have to give up the ego of being the doer. Receiving the Name from the Sadguru means there is no room left for the pride of doership. Just as a single grain of salt can spoil an entire pudding, similarly, pride can ruin one’s spiritual practice. Therefore, renouncing ego becomes extremely important. Consider the Name of God as medicine; attaining God is its fruit, and doing exactly as instructed, without exceeding or reducing, is like the proper dosage. This medicine must be taken drop by drop, continuously.
- Even ordinary words carry great power; then, imagine how much power there must be in the Name of God.
Electtechknownews 