MANTRA
This
form of prayer consists in saying a short phrase --
perhaps even one word -- over and over. The purpose
is that, through repetition, the content of the phrase
should pass from the lips to the head to the heart,
and thus become an abiding attitude in one's stance
toward life and God. There are three ways this can
be practiced:
1. The phrase can be repeated over and over in one
session of prayer. When this is done, the words are
coordinated with breathing in order to establish a
rhythm. For example, half the phrase can be recited
(mentally) while breathing in, the other half while
breathing out. Or one word (or unit that goes together:
e.g. "the grace... of Our Lord... Jesus Christ")
can be said with each breath. As the words are recited,
the mind dwells on their meaning and the heart savors
them appreciatively.
2. The phrase can be recited frequently throughout
the day, in order to remain conscious of the theme
of the day. This form of prayer, called in Christian
tradition "the Jesus prayer" or sometimes
"ejaculatory prayer," is useful for countering
temptation or acquiring some habitual attitude of
heart. For example, to say frequently throughout the
day, "Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place my trust
in you" is a way to fight off anxiety and grow
in trust in God. Said frequently enough, the phrase
can become a refrain in one's head and an abiding
orientation of one's heart.
3. The two ways can be combined: one can recite the
phrase prayerfully over and over during a period of
prayer, then try to keep reciting it prayerfully throughout
the day.
