Offense 11: Inattentive Chanting

From the book, The Art Of Chanting Hare Krishna by Mahanidhi Swami:

Inattention while chanting is also considered an offense. In fact, Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura says that distraction (inattention) or attraction to other things while chanting japa is the root cause of all offenses: "Distraction in chanting produces a type of illusion, causing serious offenses against the holy name that are difficult to overcome. This illusion leads to craving for wealth, women, position, success, and cheating. When these material attractions cover the heart, one loses interest in chanting the holy name." (Harinama-chintamani) "If you become inattentive that is an offense. You should know this. Try to avoid. Krsna is giving us chance to meet Him in so many ways: nama, rupa, lila, parikara, vasistha." (SPT 30/10/72) Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura describes three types of inattention under the category of pramada, which means complete madness. In other words, it is definitely a symptom of insanity if one begs Krsna to come by calling out His names, and then simultaneously ignores Him and pays no attention to Him. The three types of inattention are apathy, laziness and distraction.

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