Savio Rodrigues SJ

The repetition of a formula or a name or title of God in a rhythmic way constitutes the Nam Japa.

It is very important that the word synchronises with your breathing.

Attention is paid to what you are reciting. This helps in concentrating on the meaning of the words recited, and will at the same time build up your own concentration.

Though Hindu tradition insists that the words be given by a guru or by God to you, and that it be done at dawn and dusk only, Christian tradition has discovered that it can be done throughout the day and the words used can be chosen by the individual depending on one’s needs.

The purpose of Jesus prayer is to help one to develop a constant contact with God and with oneself — to be fully aware of one’s being and doing. After some time it becomes almost my breath. I live and move knowing God is present.

One must begin Japa on a high tone, gradually move to a lower tone and finally into a silent mode. It is important to coordinate chant with thought. If the mind wanders while the lips utter the name, the exercise is futile. The mind will wander, but it must be repeatedly and gently drawn back to the Japa. Regular practice will lead to a Japa or effortless chanting in the subconscious mind.

Here the individual ego begins to dilute, because the self is logged with the Almighty. Japa helps to burn away the garbage individuals carry, the Sanchit Karmas.

While chanting the Name many people fix in mind a favoured form of God (Ishta Rupa). It is better to contemplate on the formless God, an expanding light or a brilliant void (Vishva Rupa).

It is prayer to develop a help, towards centring myself, in God’s constant presence.

This is a very simple form of prayer but very effective and affective if done correctly.

The Prayer Method on this page has been provided with permission from the book Pray: How? by Savio Rodrigues SJ