SRK

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa practiced many forms of devotion, but Nam Japa (chanting the name of God) was central to his spiritual life—especially in the early stages and throughout his devotional moods.

Here’s a detailed look at Sri Ramakrishna’s Nam Jap practice:

1. Name(s) He Chanted

Sri Ramakrishna did not limit himself to one name or tradition. He chanted divine names across Hindu deities and even other religions. Some prominent examples:

• “Rama” and “Krishna” – deeply loved names in his bhakti.
• “Kali” – his chosen deity (Ishta Devata); he often repeated “Ma Kali” with deep emotion.
• “Hari” – a name of Vishnu often chanted with great bhava.
• “Om” and “So’ham” – used in more meditative, Advaitic moods.
• Allah, Jesus – when practicing Islam and Christianity, he chanted their respective names with full sincerity.

2. His Approach to Nam Japa

• He believed the Divine Name is not different from God Himself.
• Taught that repeating the Name with sincerity, love, and surrender can lead to God-realization—even in Kali Yuga where other methods may fail.
• He said:
  “One must repeat the name of God with sincerity. There is nothing in the world more efficacious than God’s name.”

3. Depth of Practice

• Though he often reached samadhi (trance) through love and vision of God, Japa was a constant practice.
• He advised even advanced seekers to continue with japa—“Repeat the Name and cry to the Lord with a longing heart.”
• His disciple Latu (Swami Adbhutananda) was trained through intense japa under Ramakrishna’s guidance.

4. His View on Crore-level Japa

While Sri Ramakrishna didn’t prescribe exact numbers like 1 or 7 crore, he deeply respected intensive repetition of the Name:

• “Repeat God’s name and sing His glories, and keep holy company; and now and then visit God’s devotees and holy men.”
• He told householders: even a little japa done sincerely has immense power.

5. Teaching to Girish Ghosh (The Power of the Name)

When Girish Ghosh despaired of being able to follow any spiritual discipline, Ramakrishna said:

“Then give me the power of attorney. I take full responsibility for you. Just remember God and repeat His name.”

Summary

• Mantras/Namas: Kali, Rama, Krishna, Hari, Om, and more.
• Method: With love (bhava), longing (viraha), and total surrender (sharanagati).
• Message: The Name itself is Divine, and sincere Japa leads to realization.

Would you like a selection of his quotes on Nam Japa or a japa routine inspired by his teachings?