Chanting of Naama Aloud
“The Name of God, if recited with Love and Faith, has the power to bring upon the eager aspirant the Grace of God. The Name has the over-mastering power of even leaping over the ocean. It can award unimagined strength and courage. When questioned whether it was Rama Nama that strengthened Hanuman to cross the ocean, Rama replied that since His Body was called Rama, the Name that combines the Beejaaksharas of both Shiva and Vishnu, He Himself was able to conquer Ravana and his hordes. The name has such efficacy. By repeating the Name, the Lord and His Attributes can easily be identified. The tongue must be sanctified by repetition of the Name.”
[Source: Divine Discourse, 23rd November, 1969]
Explanation of Japa Mantra – ‘Aum Sri Sai Ram’
Japa means repeating the name of our Ishta Devata with full love. Japa helps us to practice Dhyana or meditation. For Japa to be effective, we should know the meaning of the Japa we recite. By reciting the name of the Lord, we invite the Lord, just as we call any one dear to us by his name with full love and affection. The name chosen for Japa can be any of our Ishta devata. For example, let’s take the mantra, ‘Aum Sri Sairam’ and understand its meaning.
Aum- Omkar, Pranavakar (Pranava+A-Kaar) – Form of the whole world.
Sri- the word is used to show respect or sacredness.
Sa+Ayi- Sa-Sarvashreshta, Supreme; Ayi-Mother.
RAM – R+A+M – ‘R’ stands for Ravi-Sun God. When there is sunlight, there is no darkness; like that when you say Ram, it removes the darkness of ignorance and showers the light of wisdom.
‘A’ stands for Agni- fire. When any article goes near fire, it burns them, removes the dirt and transforms it into pure white ash. Likewise, Ram mantra burns the dirty thoughts in our minds and hearts and makes it pure.
‘M’ stands for moon. When we see moon we feel cool and pleasant. Likewise, Ram mantra gives us cool, pleasant peace.
So by chanting ‘Aum Sri Sai Ram’ slowly, all our ignorance flies and wisdom dawns. Our thoughts, words and deeds get purified and automatically we get the mental peace which will help us lead a pleasant, happy and peaceful life.
[Source : Sri Sathya Sai Balvikas Guru Hand Book Group I First Year]