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Pandit Dhirajläl Shäh gives the following six definitions of a mantra':
1. The combination of letter(s), phrases, which are worth reciting repeatedly, are called mantras. 2. Those recitations, which help in removing fear, are called mantras 3. The recitation, which helps in the automatic purification of one's thoughts, speech and conduct and helps in the concentration of one's mind is called a mantra 4. That combination of syllables and phrases which helps in understanding the scriptures is called a mantra 5. When a guru secretly gives his pupil a certain syllables or phrases for recitation, this is called a mantra. 6. If the recitation of certain syllables or phrases brings a desired result then this recitation is called a mantra.
I have tried to explain point No. one separately. As regards the second point, I have listed types of fear whilst discussing the Bhaktämara Stotra. Pandit Dhirajlal has listed following sixteen types of fear'.
1. fear of water, 2. fear of fire, 3. fear of poison, 4. fear of snakes, 5. fear of effect of bad planets, 6. fear from the kingdom (fear of rulers), 7. fear of disease, 8. fear of war, 9. fear of demons, 10. fear of enemies, 11. fear of plague and cholera, 12. fear of bandits and thieves, 13. fear of something happening to the crops in the field ( no rain, excessive rain, insects etc), 14. fear of wild animals, 15. fear of ghosts, 16. fear of witches.
It is stated that mantras provide protection from these fears. I have mentioned most of these fears in the discussion of the Bhaktämara Stotra because many verses of the Bhaktämara Stotra are believed to be helpful in removing such fears.
Points three and four are quite vague but it is obvious that repeated recitation of a mantra may help in the concentration of the mind, and may help in the proper understanding of scriptural knowledge.
While explaining five, Pandit Dhirajläl says that a guru whispers a certain sacred letter(s) or the combination of these letters (or words) in the ear of his disciple. The
en,
Hrimkara Kalpataru P 47, Mantra-Vigyan Page 29 to 32, Both by Taavit An-papi Padma Prakashan , Bombay. 2 Mantra- Vigyan Page 30, Taavit Anspace #n.
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