(as in
"muttering," "whispering") Individual recitation, generally
the repeated utterance of a specific mantra or heavenly name(s), frequently
with the use of a string of beads (mala) to execute a certain number of
repetitions.
This kind of recitation is normally done as a private
religious act, with just the reciter's voice heard and no other people present.
Japa is a Hindu practice that emphasizes the advantages of
repeatedly chanting the holy name; such repeats are said to have eventual
spiritual effects.
Japa is especially significant in the Gaudiya Vaishnavas sect, which was established by the Bengali saint Chaitanya and emphasizes public recitation of the holy name.
You may also want to read more about Hinduism here.
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