I have done it always as a part of nishkama karma in an unattached way. In fact largely in a non-doer state.
Of course plenty of people write and say they have been benefited in number of ways. They say many things. Some of course criticize as well. I take all this to perfect the equanimity and neither take these seriously nor let it affect me in any way.
Also, I mostly wanted to know the efficacy of ‘sabda’ (as pramana), words, written or spoken, to awaken the soul.
I believe that the word has the power to awaken not just because of the word itself but because the Divine can use anything to awaken a soul that is ready. Words, human beings, Scriptures are simply good or bad mediums for the Divine Action that is constantly working in and through everything.
The Word being the highest human faculty has the greatest possibility to awaken short of the direct touch of the Divine within or without. No word can ever replace that.
Affectionately,
Alok Da
