Significance of Samkirtana
Samkirtana in Vaishnavism is a vital form of congregational chanting that emphasizes the worship of God, particularly Krishna, during the Iron Age. It involves the collective glorification, chanting, and singing of the holy names of God, fostering a communal spiritual atmosphere. Recognized in devotional traditions, Samkirtana serves as a powerful means of devotion and spiritual liberation. It is a practice that enhances the devotees' connection to the divine and purifies both participants and their surroundings through united and lively expression.
Synonyms: Kirtana, Chanting, Hymn, Devotional singing, Praise, Worship, Kirtan, Spiritual song
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Samkirtana'
Samkirtana in Hinduism is a key devotional practice involving congregational chanting and singing of the divine names and glories, fostering community worship, spiritual development, and liberation from material attachments, especially in the context of devotion to Krishna.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A devotional congregational chant or singing of the holy names of God, associated with the auspicious activities led by Lord Caitanya.[1] (2) A practice of congregational singing that is deeply connected to spiritual expression and worship.[2] (3) A congregational chanting or singing of the holy names, which is a significant practice within devotional traditions.[3] (4) The devotional practice of singing or chanting the names of Krishna, which is the only engagement for the devotees.[4] (5) A devotional practice involving the chanting or singing of sacred mantras or praises, which the devotees engaged in to enhance their connection with the Lord.[5]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A devotional practice involving the singing of the Lord’s glories, which should be done with reverence.[6] (2) The act of united loud chanting.[7] (3) singing the names of the Lord[8] (4) The act of glorifying or chanting the name and qualities of the Lord, which brings peace.[9] (5) A congregational chanting or singing of the holy names of God, believed to have profound effects that are difficult to articulate.[10]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The congregational chanting of the holy names, which is vital for spiritual awakening and progress.[11] (2) The congregational chanting of the Holy Name, which is a prominent practice in the Gaudiya tradition.[12] (3) The collective chanting or singing of the Holy Names, believed to be a remedy for the suffering caused by material attachments.[13] (4) congregational chanting of the names of Shri Krishna.[14] (5) The congregational chanting of the holy names, a central practice in devotional activities that leads to spiritual realization.[15]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) The collective chanting and singing of the holy names of God, considered a vital practice in demonstrating devotion.[16] (2) The congregational chanting of Lord Krishna's names, highlighted as the essential practice for devotion in Kali-yuga.[17] (3) A congregational chanting of the holy names, where Lord Vishvambhara danced among the devotees.[18] (4) A congregational chanting of the holy names of God, used to elevate the spirits of the devotees.[19] (5) The chanting of Lord Krishna’s holy names, promoted as a means of spiritual liberation and ecstatic love.[20]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The congregational chanting of the holy names of God, celebrated as a powerful means of devotion and communal worship.[21] (2) Sankirtana is a form of congregational chant recognized by Scriptures as the worship method for the Iron Age.[22] (3) Congregational chanting of the Holy Name, emphasized by Thakur Haridas as the mode of worship for this Age.[23] (4) Congregational chanting as a form of devotional service and worship, emphasized in the teachings of Sri Chaitanya.[24]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The congregational chanting of the holy names, which is emphasized as a means to attain spiritual intelligence and liberation.[25] (2) The collective chanting and glorification of Krishna, regarded as a powerful spiritual practice.[26]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The collective chanting or worship of names and glories of deities, often performed during rituals and festivals.[27]