Significance of Chanting
Chanting, according to Vaishnavism, is a multifaceted practice encompassing the repetitive recitation of mantras or prayers, often using a japa-mala, and vocalizing divine names as a form of devotion. It includes singing sacred verses during rituals and is crucial in bhakti practice, emphasizing worship through repeated expressions of faith. This tradition aims to enhance spiritual connection and devotion, with specific practices highlighted in scriptures. Similarly, Purana and Mahayana perspectives reinforce chanting's role in worship and achieving spiritual clarity.
Synonyms: Singing, Reciting, Murmuring, Repeating, Echoing, Incantation, Prayer., Mantra
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Chanting'
Chanting in Buddhism serves as a vocal spiritual practice, invoking blessings and protection while promoting clarity and connection. It is particularly significant in texts like the Earth Store Sutra, emphasizing its role in spiritual progress.
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) A vocal expression of spiritual practice involving repeated phrases or mantras to achieve clarity of mind and connection.[1]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra
(1) The practice of reciting names or texts to invoke blessings, protection, and spiritual progress, particularly touching upon its significance in the Earth Store Sutra.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Chanting'
Chanting in Hinduism encompasses the vocal repetition of mantras and divine names, especially in devotional contexts, serving both as a worship practice and a meditative exercise to invoke spiritual presence and achieve specific outcomes.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The rhythmic vocalization of religious or spiritual phrases.[3] (2) The act performed by Nityananda, likely as a form of devotion or prayer.[4] (3) The act of vocalizing sacred words, in this case, 'Jaya Jaya,' as part of worship and celebration.[5] (4) The act of reciting or repeating sacred names or prayers, particularly in the context of devotion, which plays a crucial role in the practice of bhakti.[6] (5) Chanting refers to the act of vocally reciting the names or glories of divine figures, which in this context, accompanies Gauracandra's dance.[7]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The act of reciting or singing hymns or mantras, synonymous with sankirtana, which can be done alone or with others.[8] (2) The practice that the speaker engages in, during which he encounters obstacles regarding seeing the Lord.[9] (3) The act of singing or reciting the holy names of the Lord, particularly in a devotional context.[10] (4) A spiritual practice involving the repetitive recitation of mantras or prayers, focused on the divine, such as Vasudeva.[11] (5) The repetitive vocal expression of faith and devotion, particularly directed towards the name of Shri Jagannatha.[12]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The act of reciting or repeating the holy names as a form of devotion.[13] (2) The act of repetitively reciting mantras or prayers, especially using a japa-mala.[14]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The act of singing or reciting sacred verses or sounds during the bathing ritual.[15] (2) The act of reciting or repeating the mantra.[16]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The practice of vocal recitation of mantras as part of the worship process to achieve specific outcomes.[17]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The repetitive recitation of mantras or prayers as a form of worship and meditation.[18]