Repeat the Holy Name — from the Songs of Tallapaka Annamacharya of South India

Whenever you’re hungry, whenever you’re tired
Repeat the holy name, there is no other way
In moments of want, or when you’re all alone
If someone captures you and you’re locked up
The blessed name of Hari is the only support
If you’re forgetful and make mistakes in life
Whenever you’re hungry, whenever you’re tired
Repeat the holy name, there is no other way
When danger threatens, or you’re scandalized
In times of sin, whenever you are in terror
The power of Hari’s name is your true comfort
Search until dusk falls; you’ll find no other way
Whenever you’re hungry, whenever you’re tired
Repeat the holy name, there is no other way
If you’re bound in chains, condemned to death
When you’re waylaid on the road by creditors
The name of Venkata is the only way of release
Idiot mind, search as you wish, no other way exists
Whenever you’re hungry, whenever you’re tired
Repeat the holy name, the only way to go higher

— Annamacharya, Songs of Three Great South Indian Saints, William J. Jackson

Note: Annamayya (1408–1503) was a Telugu musician, composer, and a Hindu saint of south India. Divine names to be repeated may vary from tradition to tradition, and even in the mystic verses above, but it’s a universal spiritual practice to repeat a sacred name of God, to meditate upon it. “Repeat the holy name, the only way to go higher.” (Annamacharya)