Here is a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) for this app. This questions out here get updated as and when there are questions posted from the app to me. And of course you will get a direct answer from me also regarding any doubts or queries.
Yes, there are a dime a dozen available on Google, but this app was built on a certain need of
– Having a very simplistic and non fancy approach to the digital mala
– Maintaining the history and count of our japas
– Not to be disturbed for the time we are reciting our prayers
– sending us a reminder if we missed our japa for more than 2 days consecutively Missing japas is non negotiable, these have to be done as there is plenty of power in prayer and meditation
Any japa has to be said at least a 108 times everyday. and most of the Pundits and old hags experienced in religion mention that for any prayer to be effective it is has to be said at least 1,000 * 108 times. And to account for any errors we need to do an additional 250 times. Hence the history maintenance to make sure we have the correct count of 1250.
Another reason for history is that we are not allowed to miss our japas for more than a couple of days consecutively. Again the Pundits say that if you miss for more than 5 days consecutively then you need to start all over again. Keeping a log sometimes not only motivates us, but also helps us stay focused.
Mantras can be chanted to balance or enhance certain vibrations, they were considered an effective way to balance or harmonize any negative effects due to these influences from the planets, as well as a way to enhance any positive effects that these could cause. And based on the system of 9 planets (Nava Graha) moving though 12 constellations, this leaves us with 9 x 12 = 108 different planetary positions or effects/influences that need to be harmonized or pacified. It was for this reason that it was said to chant mantras at least 108 times.
There are many other explanations for 108 like
– There are 54 letters in the Sanskrit Alphabet. Each as a masculine and feminine, Shiva and Shakti
– Vedic astrology mentions 12 constellations and 9 namshas or chandrakalas
– The Sikh religion has a mala of 108 knots tied in a string of wool rather than beads
– There are said to be 108 virtues to cultivate and 108 defilement to avoid
– Chinese astrology says that there are 108 sacred stars
– Some Buddhists carve 108 small Buddhas on a walnut for good luck and sometimes ring a bell 108 times for celebrate the new year
There may be many more reasons for the 108 count but the 108 count is sacrosanct across the religions
Any shorter version of the japa is being done as a matter of one’s convenience and should be avoided as far as possible. But the shorter counts of 11, 21 and 54 are considered good.
Not praying is not an option. Missing prayers for a couple of days is acceptable but anything more than 5 days is not acceptable. If for some reason you did have to miss the app will send you a gentle reminder for the same if set in the settings tab.
