The Path to Salvation: A Comprehensive Guide to Initiation (Naam Diksha) by Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj

What is Initiation?

Initiation, also known as Naam Diksha or Namdaan, is the process of receiving sacred mantras (naam) from a True Master or Supreme Saint. The terms "Initiation," "Naam," "Namdaan," and "Naam Diksha" are used interchangeably.

Purpose of Initiation

The ultimate goal of human life is to attain Moksha (salvation or liberation). Moksha can only be achieved through initiation by a True Master. While good health, prosperity, and happiness are natural by-products of true worship, they should not be the primary aim. The sole focus should be on attaining salvation.

If a disciple follows the prescribed worship and rules with sincerity, worldly benefits will follow. However, seeking initiation solely for material gains or relief from distress may delay results. True benefits come with knowledge, faith, and consistent practice.

Prerequisites for Initiation

To receive initiation, one must adhere to specific rules. Breaking these rules renders the worship ineffective. Key prerequisites include:

1. Understanding the Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with the teachings of Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj. The book Gyan Ganga (available for free on the website) and spiritual discourses (available on the website and YouTube) are essential resources.
2. Commitment to Rules: Strictly follow the guidelines for worship to ensure its success.

How to Take Initiation

1. Visit a Namdaan Centre: Locate the nearest Namdaan centre using the contact details on the website.
2. Online Initiation: For those abroad where there is no Namdaan centre, initiation can be arranged via video calls (WhatsApp, etc.). Contact the centre for details.

Stages of Namdaan

Initiation occurs in three stages:

1. First Mantra (First Initiation): The initial mantra received during initiation.
2. Second Mantra (Satnaam): Available after 4 months of consistent practice. Requires a personal visit to a Namdaan centre.
3. Third Mantra (Saarnaam): Granted only by Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj’s order, typically after years of devotion. Available only in India at Satlok Ashram, Dhanana Dham, Haryana.

What Happens During Initiation?

1. Willingness and Rules: The aspirant confirms their willingness to follow the rules.
2. Pre-recorded Video: Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj explains the mantras and their recitation in Hindi. Assistance is provided for language barriers, but mantras must be recited in their original form.
3. Written Mantra: A card or booklet with the mantra is provided for daily practice. A minimum of 108 recitations per day is required.
4. No Charges: Initiation is free of cost.

Additional Practices

Apart from chanting mantras, disciples must perform three daily prayers:

1. Morning Prayer (Nitniyam): 30-40 minutes, to be completed before noon.
2. Afternoon Prayer (Rameni): 10-15 minutes, to be completed after noon to before midnight.
3. Evening Prayer (Sandhya Aarti): 25-30 minutes, ideally at dusk or before midnight.

These prayers are based on the teachings of Kabir Sahib and Garib Das Ji Maharaj. The book Bhaktibodh (provided free during initiation) contains the prayers, which can also be accessed via MP3 files or videos on the website or YouTube.

Obtaining Satnaam (Second Mantra)

After 4 months of consistent practice, disciples become eligible for the Satnaam mantra. A small test on the first mantra’s significance is conducted before initiation. The process is similar to the first initiation and is also free.

Rules After Satnaam

Additional rules apply after receiving the second mantra. These are provided by the Namdaan centre during or after the first initiation. Disciples should ensure they receive these guidelines.

Eligibility for Initiation

Initiation is open to all individuals, regardless of caste, creed, color, faith, or religion. The purpose of human life is to worship Supreme God Kabir and return to Satlok (eternal abode). Children as young as 3-4 years old can receive initiation if they can follow instructions and recite mantras.

Consequences of Breaking Rules

Breaking the rules knowingly disconnects the disciple from the initiation, rendering the worship ineffective. Unintentional breaches may be forgiven, but intentional violations require seeking forgiveness and re-initiation.

Is Video Initiation Effective?

Initiation via pre-recorded video is as effective as in-person initiation. Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj has authorized this method to accommodate the growing number of aspirants. The spiritual impact remains unchanged.

Conclusion

Initiation is a sacred process aimed at achieving Moksha. By following the rules, gaining knowledge, and practicing sincere worship, disciples can attain salvation and its associated benefits. For more information, visit the official website or contact a Namdaan centre.