Devotional Chanting: The Power of Sound & Song
Most cultures use song and sound to enhance worship services. While melodically pleasing, on a deeper level, using voice and music is a very potent way to open the heart.
"Sound or vibration is the most powerful force in the universe. Music is a divine art, to be used not only for pleasure but as a path to God-Realization. Vibrations resulting from devotional singing lead to attunement with the Cosmic Vibration or the Word".
-- Paramahansa Yogananda
Why is this important? - Because devotion is the magnet that draws the Grace needed for Divine Illumination. Chanting followed by meditation is excellent for boosting the inner life. And, while this approach has eastern roots, chanting is found in almost every faith tradition and beneficial for all.
These sessions are more participatory than instructional, consisting of one or more periods of devotional chanting followed by silent meditation. If you haven’t had formal meditation training, you are advised to get some. In the meanwhile, helpful suggestions are often provided to make the experience most meaningful. While chanting and meditation can truly be spiritually intoxicating, the rule of thumb is, “What you put into it is what you’ll get from it!”
"In the past I tried various meditation techniques but never truly adopted the practice as I found it difficult to sit still for very long. Chanting changed that for me. Chanting opens up a world of meditation and spiritual devotion. After 20 to 30 minutes of singing to God/Spirit, of opening my heart in deep calling - using the vibrations of my voice and heart to reach out towards the Divine - I find myself transported; gently, and effortlessly, into a deep and peaceful meditation. Afterwards I leave the Center glowing." L. Jones
*Alan’s CD of devotional chanting, “Joy of the Soul: Cosmic Chants,” is based on chants from the Paramhansa Yogananda tradition. If interested in purchasing one or more, contact Alan Pritz at AlanPritz@q.com. |
Sample and Purchase Alan's CD of chants "Joy of the Soul: Cosmic Chants"