My point is that the japa may be done mechanically, almost thoughtlessly, while thinking of other problems for Krishna’s service—what I have to do today. This leads to other non-preaching, nondevotional thoughts invading the japa time. And the result is that japa, which is the most important of all my daily tasks for the spiritual master—and which will protect me and enable me to perform the other tasks—becomes a “weak sister,” dries up, withers, and effectually dies.
(_Begging for the Nectar of the Holy Name_)
JAPA POEM
I lament that japa
may become mechanical
and lead to
nondevotional thoughts/
inattention to the holy name.
Thus the sixteen rounds,
which Prabhupada said were
the most essential
of all the instructions
of the spiritual master, and
which give me the
strength to carry
out orders, dry up, wither,
and effectively die.
Let it not happen!
Chant and hear from the heart.