Mantra

A mantra is a sacred word used as a sort of formula to enter or obtain a meditative state of mind. It’s a vocalized sound, the chanting of a word or short phrase that is repeated over and over as one empties their mind, an action that is said to aid the devotees of certain religions in entering a trance-like meditate state. Once the meditative state is achieved, then the doorway is open for that person (sometimes referred to as a yogi or chela) to ascend to a higher level of consciousness, or spirit or into contact with self. (The word of choice of course depends upon the particulars of the religious belief.) Most often these mantras are personal, and more often than not, they are names of spiritual beings or religious deities.

The belief is that words used as mantras have “sound shapes” and they transmit a particular energy level into the spiritual realm we mortals cannot see. Thus the mantra acts like a key and it makes a connection between the spirit world and the yogi in his meditation.

People of all faiths are increasingly doing these mantra practices. Some people think it is just another way to pray another form of prayer and some people encourage Christians to pray this way, but Jesus never told his disciples to do such a thing. In fact he specifically said God doesn’t need our vain repetitions. (Matthew 6:7.) Instead, Jesus told us how to pray and to whom. He encourages us that God, wants us to speak our hearts freely to Him in a language of communication, one that we understand and to do so with the the understanding that he listens, for like a father, he is listening always and answers we call.