Chanting the Lord's Name

Is chanting and singing the names of the Lord sufficient to earn His grace? As we conclude another Akhanda Bhajan, Bhagawan reminds us of how to complete our efforts.

"Merely chanting mantras or repeating God’s Name is of no use. We must engage ourselves in God’s work, as I have told you a number of times. 

Hanuman reached Lanka and befriended Vibhishana. During their conversation, Vibhishana expressed grief, “Hanumanta, you are fortunate, indeed. You are ceaselessly engaged in service to Rama, thereby worthy of His Grace. I’ve been repeating the Name of Rama for many years now, but I haven’t secured His darshan yet.” 

Hanuman asked him beautiful questions, “Vibhishana, you chant Rama’s name, but are you involved in Rama’s work? Without working for Rama, how can you expect Grace? It has been many weeks since Sita Devi was brought captive to Lanka. Isn’t service to Sita a valuable service to Rama? Have you ever gone to the Ashoka grove and consoled her? Have you even met her once? Have you familiarised yourself with her troubles and taken steps to provide her with conveniences? My every roma (hair) says Rama! But I did not stop there. I offered my life to Rama. I am engaged in actions dear to Him, day and night.” 

Therefore, the lesson is: The name of Rama in the heart, the work of Rama in the hand (Dil me Ram, hat me kam). This is the way to offer our lives to the Lord."

~ Sri Sathya Sai Baba ~

(Summer Showers - May 21, 1991)