Significance of Congregational chanting
Congregational chanting in Vaishnavism is a collective spiritual practice that involves singing or reciting the holy names of the Lord, particularly during the age of Kali. It serves as a central aspect of the sankirtana movement, initiated by Shri Chaitanya and Shri Nityananda, emphasizing community and devotion. This practice enhances the spiritual atmosphere and is considered a sacred act of worship, believed to lead to the manifestation of divine love and connection among devotees.
Synonyms: Collective singing, Group singing, Collective chanting
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Congregational chanting'
Congregational chanting in Hinduism is a communal devotional practice where devotees collectively recite or sing the holy names of God, particularly Krishna, emphasizing community, spiritual connection, and enhancing shared worship experiences.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A collective and communal act of chanting that is associated with worship and divine names.[1] (2) The collective act of chanting or singing praises, specifically related to the glories of Lord Anantadeva.[2] (3) A collective vocal practice where a group of people chant together, often featuring holy names or mantras.[3] (4) The practice initiated by Shri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Shri Nityananda Prabhu, focusing on collective worship through the recitation of the holy names of the Lord.[4] (5) The collective recitation of the names of Lord Hari, highly emphasized in the teaching of Shriman Mahaprabhu.[5]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Collective practice of singing or chanting, often associated with spiritual or religious gatherings.[6] (2) a collective practice of vocalizing the holy names, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere and experience.[7] (3) Nama-sankirtana is the practice of collectively reciting the names of the Lord, especially in a communal setting.[8] (4) The communal practice of singing the glories of the divine, which is a prominent feature of the activities in Vaikuntha-loka.[9] (5) Collective singing or chanting, usually in a group setting, focusing on divine names or praises.[10]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The process of collectively singing the holy names, considered a sacred act in the practice of devotional service.[11]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The practice of collective worship involving the chanting of the Name of Hari, which played a significant role during the Advent of Sri Chaitanya.[12]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) The practice of collectively reciting the holy names of the Lord, emphasized as the yuga-dharma or primary spiritual practice in the Kali-yuga.[13]