Significance of Japa
Japa is a multifaceted practice deeply rooted in various spiritual traditions, emphasizing the repetitive chanting or recitation of mantras. It is seen as a crucial discipline for image-making, meditation, and spiritual growth across different contexts such as Vastushastra, Vaishnavism, and more. The practice involves the vocal or silent repetition of sacred sounds intended to purify, invoke divine energies, attain victory, and foster deep devotion. Japa serves as a foundational element in enhancing spiritual awareness and meditation.
Synonyms: Chanting, Recitation, Repetition, Mantra, Prayer
In Finnish: Japa; In Swedish: Japa; In Dutch: Japan; In German: Japan; In Spanish: 闯补辫贸苍; In Malay: Jepun; In French: Japon
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Japa'
Japa in Hinduism encompasses the repetitive chanting and recitation of sacred mantras, serving as a meditative and devotional practice. It aims to establish a connection with deities, achieve spiritual benefits, and purify the mind and spirit.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A form of meditation involving the repetition of a mantra, which is absent among the subjects mentioned in the text.[1] (2) A practice of chanting that involves repeating the holy names, which the Lord performed while seated next to the tulasi plant.[2] (3) The practice of silently or softly repeating mantras, which is a part of the instructions for chanting the maha-mantra.[3]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) loud chanting or soft utterance of the holy name of Shri Krishna to oneself.[4]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The practice of chanting, which the brahmana performs with affection and devotion.[5]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Japa is the repetitive recitation of Mantras, serving as a fundamental practice in Sadhana to focus the mind and invoke spiritual energies.[6] (2) The repetitive recitation of Mantras as a meditative practice aimed at focusing the mind, invoking divine energies, and achieving spiritual goals.[7] (3) The repetition or recitation of mantras as a form of meditation and worship, intended to deepen spiritual awareness.[8] (4) A form of mantra repetition, done with or without sound, to stabilize the mind and focus on good thoughts.[9] (5) The practice of chanting or repeating a mantra as a means of spiritual discipline.[10]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) The repetition of the name of God, considered a key practice in spiritual study and discipline.[11] (2) The practice of silently or audibly repeating a mantra, which helps in meditative focus and discipline.[12]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The practice of meditation or chanting as prescribed in Vedic traditions, which is crucial for spiritual advancement.[13] (2) The practice of silent or audible repetition of mantras, particularly the Gayatri, for spiritual purification and meditation.[14]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The practice of repetitive chanting of mantras or the name of a deity as a form of worship.[15] (2) The repetitive chanting of mantras, typically done as a form of worship or meditation.[16]
From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)
(1) The practice of repetitive chanting or mantra recitation, which is part of the discipline before image-making.[17]
From: Sushruta Samhita, Volume 6: Uttara-tantra
(1) The mental repetition of a mantra as a religious practice for propitiating Grahas.[18]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) The act of repeating mantras as a form of meditation and devotion, vital for spiritual progress.[19]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) Recitation of sacred formulas, which is deemed beneficial for knowledge and does not depend on formal orders.[20]
The concept of Japa in local and regional sources
Japa, a meditative practice involving the repetition of mantras or prayers, is essential for spiritual growth. It transcends idleness and mental fluctuations, fostering dedication and connection to the Infinite, as illustrated in various spiritual traditions.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Japa is a spiritual practice involving the repetition of a mantra or the name of a deity, which the Brahmacharins and Sannyasins were instructed to perform early in the morning in the worship-room, along with meditation.[21] (2) Japa is repeating the Holy Name; through this the devotee rises to the Infinite, according to the provided text's information.[22] (3) Japa is the repetition of a mantra, and one may get tired of it due to brain fatigue or idleness, and the practice should be continued if the cause is idleness.[23] (4) This refers to a practice that the recipient is advised to continue, regardless of mental fluctuations, implying a spiritual or meditative discipline to be maintained.[24]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A meditative practice that involves the repetition of a mantra or prayer, used as a tool for spiritual progress.[25] (2) A practice of chanting or repeating mantras, included in the forms of worship mentioned in the Ramayana.[26] (3) A meditative practice presumably performed by Puttaparthi, demonstrating his spiritual dedication.[27]