Will Sri Suktam Sadhana work for me if I can’t chant the hymn?

All infants get comforted when they listen to their mothers' loving words and lullabies, though they cannot understand the words. Ever wondered why? 

As a species, we have an intricate connection with words and, more importantly, their sounds. Certain sounds comfort us and provide focus and mindfulness. Mantras do just that. ‘Mantra’ is derived from two Sanskrit root words: manas (mind) and tra (tool). It is a tool or instrument for the mind. 

So what if you cannot chant a mantra or the Sri Suktam hymn, in this case? Being pure sounds, mantras make a deep impact on our consciousness. Our Rishis witnessed and invoked the verses of Sri Suktam through intense meditation. The pattern and strength of vibration generated by Sri Suktam are very effective. You may not be able to chant it, but the potent sound of the hymn will still work at a subtle level.

In the Sadhana app, you can perform the Sri Suktam jap by listening to the verses in Om Swami’s voice. Moreover, you can also read the on-screen mantra transcription in your preferred language (Hindi or English). As you get comfortable with the Suktam, you can try to recall the verses slowly when you listen to them.

This type of mental chanting, or Manasika jap is considered a superior method in Mantra Sadhana. It is also effective in training us to be mindful.

Having said that, there is one big benefit to knowing the meaning of Sri Suktam. It is a beautiful adoration of Mother Divine, and understanding the verses builds devotion. After all, there are two crucial aspects of mantra sadhana: devotion and faith. To understand the meanings of each Sri Suktam verse, refer to the Appendix of Swami ji’s book, The Legend of the Goddess. 

If you wish to memorise the sixteen verses of this Suktam, click ‘Learn Sri Suktam’ in the App . Here, you can listen to each verse in Om Swami’s voice and then practice along.