Dear Reader,

    Since:

	‘Om’ is a bijakshar mantra; it generates radiance. Thus, prefixing a chant with ‘Om’ increases the radiance of the chant, thus, increasing its capacity to combat distressing energies or increase its Marak (Destroyer of evil) aspect.
	The deties’ Names to repeat (chant), given in Issue 124, Message to Seekers section, namely, those of Lord Ganesh, Goddess Durga, Lord Shiva, Lord Datta, Lord Ram, Lord Hanuman and Lord Krushna, are prescribed for removal of distressing energies’ obstruction to spiritual practice, given the tremendous rise in distressing energies in recent times. Thus, those chants need to generate maximum Marak (Destroyer of evil) energy. Hence, Om is prefixed to them.
	A divine principle or deity has no religion. A deity is a form of divine energy with specific attributes and particular functions in the Universe. Hence, The Name of a particular deity would be equally effective whether done by a Hindu or non-Hindu. This is akin to taking some medical prescription, say, some antibiotic, if prescribed properly, would be effective regardless of whether we like it or believe in it or not.
	‘Om’ is not prefixed to chants of the Tarak (Savior of devotees) form.

    Note: One should not prefix deities’ Names with ‘Om’ on their own (unless told by the Guru), as seekers (especially in the initial stages) may not be able to bear its radiance and experience adverse effects. The above Names to repeat (chant) have the resolve (sankalpa) of H. H. Dr. Jayant Athavale, hence, seekers can repeat (chant) The Lord’s Name with ‘Om’. Prior to repeating (chanting) God’s Name, one can also say a prayer to the respective divine Principle for the ability to bear the energy generated from the ‘Om’ in the Name being repeated (chanted).

*Constant remembrance or repetition of The Lord’s Name. When done mentally, it can be done anywhere and anytime, as it does not need purity of body, time or place. However, in the initial stages it is recommended that one start by sitting in one place for at least half an hour daily and repeat (chant) The Name of one’s Kuldevata or per their religion (refer to Issue 3, Clarification of Doubts section for details on what Name to repeat according to one’s religion.) Those in the advanced stages and who have been doing regular spiritual practice for over one year are advised to determine The Name appropriate for them from the experiment given in Issue 124, Messages to Seekers section.