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How To Chant Mantra 108 Times In Hindu Religion?

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 Here is an expanded and detailed guide to chanting a mantra 108 times in the Hindu religion:

What is Mantra Chanting?

In Hinduism, mantra chanting is a spiritual practice that involves the repetition of sacred sounds, syllables, or phrases. A mantra holds divine vibrations and energies that help attune the mind, body, and soul toward higher consciousness and inner peace.

Importance of Chanting 108 Times

The number 108 is considered sacred in Hinduism and many spiritual traditions due to its cosmic significance:

  1. Astronomical Significance: The distance between the Earth and the Sun is roughly 108 times the Sun's diameter. Similarly, the distance between the Earth and the Moon is approximately 108 times the Moon's diameter.
  2. Mathematical Significance: The number 108 is derived from multiplying 12 (zodiac signs) by 9 (planets).
  3. Spiritual Significance: It represents wholeness, with 1 symbolizing the ultimate reality, 0 symbolizing emptiness or completeness, and 8 symbolizing infinity.

A Popular Mantra

One widely used mantra is the Gayatri Mantra:

Sanskrit

ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः।
तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यं।
भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि।
धियो यो नः प्रचोदयात्॥

Hindi Transliteration

ओम् भूर्भुवः स्वः।
तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यम।
भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि।
धियो यो नः प्रचोदयात्॥

English Transliteration

Om Bhur Bhuvah Swah,
Tat Savitur Varenyam,
Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi,
Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat.

Meaning

"We meditate on the divine light of the Sun, the creator of the universe, who inspires and guides our wisdom."

7 Benefits of Chanting a Mantra 108 Times

  1. Mindfulness and Focus: Repetition cultivates concentration and mindfulness.
  2. Spiritual Growth: Aligns the chanter with divine energies, aiding spiritual advancement.
  3. Emotional Balance: Reduces stress and anxiety, bringing emotional calm.
  4. Energy Cleansing: Purifies the surrounding environment and the aura.
  5. Karmic Purification: Dissolves negative karma and past impressions.
  6. Health Benefits: Improves mental and physical health by calming the nervous system.
  7. Manifestation: Enhances positive intentions and spiritual manifestations.

Symbolism

  • Mala (Rosary): A mala with 108 beads is used to keep track of repetitions, ensuring focus.
  • Om Symbol (ॐ): Often used as a universal mantra, representing the essence of ultimate reality.

Clothes to Wear

  • Traditional clean attire like white or saffron clothes is preferred for purity.
  • Comfortable and modest clothing is acceptable when chanting casually or on the go.

How to Chant Mantra 108 Times

  1. Choose a Quiet Place: Find a serene environment to reduce distractions.
  2. Sit Comfortably: Adopt a meditative posture like Padmasana (lotus pose) or sit on a clean mat.
  3. Use a Mala: Hold the mala in your right hand, moving one bead at a time with each chant.
  4. Focus on the Mantra: Pronounce the mantra clearly and rhythmically.
  5. Meditate on Meaning: Connect deeply with the mantra's essence.

How to Chant Anywhere and Anytime

  1. Mentally Chant: Silently repeat the mantra while commuting or during breaks.
  2. Breath Awareness: Synchronize mantra chanting with your breath.
  3. Wear a Mala Bracelet: Keep a small mala handy for discrete use.

Benefits of Mental Chanting

  1. Subtle vibrations cleanse the mind.
  2. Promotes inner silence and calmness.
  3. Can be practiced anywhere without any tools.

How to Focus the Mind on Chanting

  1. Preparation: Begin with deep breathing exercises to calm the mind.
  2. Visualization: Imagine divine light or the deity associated with the mantra.
  3. Mantra Meaning: Contemplate the meaning and intention behind the mantra.

How to Avoid Distractions

  1. Designate Time: Choose a specific time daily for chanting, ideally during dawn or dusk.
  2. Remove Interruptions: Turn off phones and find a quiet space.
  3. Restart if Needed: Gently bring your focus back if the mind wanders.

Number of Times to Chant

  • While 108 is ideal, beginners can start with fewer repetitions, such as 11, 21, or 54.
  • Repeating the mantra consistently every day amplifies its effects, even if done less frequently.

By incorporating these practices, mantra chanting can become a powerful tool for spiritual growth and inner transformation.