Ziya
Share
The renowned spiritual guide Premanand Ji Maharaj of Vrindavan is known for his simple yet profound teachings that resonate with millions of devotees across social media platforms. In a recent discourse he addressed a common query raised by many spiritual seekers regarding the effectiveness of chanting the holy name or Naam Jap. Devotees often wonder why they do not experience spiritual bliss or see positive changes in their lives despite chanting or performing prayers regularly for years. Answering this curiosity Maharaj Ji explained that the primary reason behind the lack of progress is the commission of offenses against the holy name known as Namaparadh in Hindu scriptures. He emphasized that the power of the holy name is infinite but its fruit is often obstructed when a seeker knowingly or unknowingly commits specific spiritual transgressions while walking the path of devotion.
Premanand Maharaj detailed that there are ten major offenses that a devotee must strictly avoid to unlock the true potential of their spiritual practice. He highlighted that the first and most detrimental offense is criticizing or disrespecting saints and holy men who have dedicated their lives to spreading the glory of the divine name. He further explained that differentiating between deities like Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu or considering the Guru as a mere human being also constitutes a grave error. The saint stressed that one must not criticize the Vedas or other scriptures and should avoid interpreting the holy name as mere imagination or arthavada. One of the most significant warnings he issued was against the mindset of committing sins relying on the strength of the chant. He stated that if a person commits sins thinking that later chanting will wash away the guilt that sin becomes like a thunderbolt that cannot be easily absolved.
The discourse further touched upon other hindrances such as lack of complete faith and equating the glory of the holy name with mundane worldly rituals or other good deeds. Maharaj Ji advised that a devotee should not preach the holy name to those who have no faith or willingness to listen as it is also considered an offense. He urged his followers to maintain a lifestyle of purity and avoid laziness or distraction while chanting calling it maintaining the ego of "I and mine". According to Premanand Maharaj once a seeker consciously frees themselves from these ten offenses and chants with a heart full of remorse and surrender they will undoubtedly feel the divine presence. The conversation serves as a crucial reminder for spiritual practitioners to inspect their own conduct and cultivate humility and reverence to experience the transformative power of Naam Jap.
