Knowledge Bank

Importance of Understanding a Mantra

मन्त्रार्थं मन्त्रचैतन्यं यो न जानाति साधकः । शतलक्षप्रजप्तोऽपि तस्य मन्त्रो न सिध्यति - Someone who does not know the meaning and essence of a mantra will not achieve success with it, even if they chant it a billion times. Understanding the mantra's meaning is important. Knowing the mantra's essence is crucial. Without this knowledge, just chanting won't work. Even repeated chants won't bring results. Success requires understanding and awareness.

What are Yantras ?

Yantras are considered the deity's body, with Mantras as the soul. Each deity has an associated Yantra, and Agamas give specific instructions for creating and worshipping these Yantras. They can be made on various materials, including gold, silver, copper, or Bhurja (birch bark). There are two types of Yantras: those used in worship (Pujaniya) and those worn on the body (Dharaniya), with the latter believed to fulfill desires and offer protection.