Likhita Japa 2014-2015

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Source: Teaching of Swami Sivananda Saraswati from archives of www.yogamag.net

1. What is Likhita Japa?
   1. Likhit japa is mantra writing.
2. How should it be practiced?
   1. Repetition of the mantra with meaning and bhava should be practiced both orally and in writing. For oral japa, the help of a mala or rosary is required. For likhit japa a notebook and a pen should be used. The mantra may be written in any language. Write your mantra daily in a notebook for half an hour. When you write the mantra, observe mouna or silence. Write the mantra clearly in ink. On Sundays and holidays write for one hour. Likhit japa develops the power of concentration and other incalculable benefits. Repeat the mantra mentally while writing it in the notebook.
   2. To help concentration, one uniform system of writing from top to bottom or from left to right should be maintained during a particular sitting. The whole mantra should be written at once in continuity. Do not break the mantra in the middle when you come to the end of the line. When you select a mantra, try to stick to it.
   3. By constant practice the inherent power of the mantra will be awakened, which will fill your very existence with the divinity of the mantra. Besides bringing about purity of heart and concentration of mind, likhit japa gives you control of your asana or sitting position, control of the senses, particularly sight and tongue, and fills you with the power of endurance.
3. Who can participate?
   1. Both Adults and Children.
4. Do I have to be a Chinmaya Mission member to do participate?
   1. No, Likhita Japa is open to ALL
5. Can one use their own notebook or does it have to be the Chinmaya Mission supplied notebook?
   1. You may use a standard notebook and any number of pages
6. When and where to send these completed notebooks or pages?
   1. Notebooks or pages can be mailed or given to a Sevaka or a Sevika or any member of Chinmaya Niketan Bal Vihar along with a minimum dakshina of $21.00.
   2. Make checks payable to Chinmaya Mission Atlanta  and indicate “Likhita Japa” in the memo:
      Chinmaya Niketan
      5511 Williams Road
      Norcross, GA 30093
7. How many note books one can write?
   1. As many as you can dedicate the time to complete.  Individual pages of standard size is also accepted.
8. What is the date of completion should be completed by?
   1. All notebooks or pages should reach Chinmaya Niketan by 27^th April 2015 or earlier.