The ninth chapter of the Bhagavad Gita is of paramount importance. It deals with the raja vidya (sovereign knowledge) and raja guhya (sovereign secret). It is concerned with occult experience and the esoteric mysteries of the human soul. This chapter is in the middle of the Gita text and is like a beautiful bouquet that links the two halves of a gorgeous garland of fragrant flowers that the various other chapters in the Bhagavad Gita are. And in this central chapter is contained the supreme knowledge of the Atma. (SSB 1979, pp. 196-197)
Another special thing about repetition of the name (namasmarana) is this: It is possible to acquire various occult powers (siddhis) through yoga and penance (tapas). And there is every likelihood of the Lord being forgotten when these powers come. Blinded by this pride, a person might even let go the basic victory won by their spiritual practices. This is not the case with remembrance of the name, repetition of the name, and meditation; no such dangers beset these paths. These three paths make love (prema) grow in people more and more. Through love, peace (shanti) is achieved. Once peace of mind is achieved, all other conditions are automatically attained. Through yoga and penance, extraordinary power; through remembrance of the name, repetition of the name, and meditation, extraordinary love — this is the difference between the two.
Do not discuss the path with everyone
However, be careful not to discuss these paths with all and sundry, because each one’s path appears the best. If the people consulted are treading another path, they will decry your practice of repetition of the name and meditation and treat them with scant respect. They will look down upon them, as if they were very elementary and as if your were but a beginner in school. As a result, you will start doubting the efficacy of your chosen path! You will get concern where before you had joy, disgust where before you had love. Therefore, reflect within yourself which among these is sweeter. Or, you can approach those who have tasted the nectar of that name and ask for details of their experiences.
Do not argue about these things with everyone you meet. The time spent in these haphazard disputations is best used for the cultivation of joy through the repeated bringing of the name (nama) to memory and meditation on the form (rupa) of the Lord. (DhyV, pp. 53-54)
You will understand Me only through My work, that is why sometimes in order to reveal who I am, I Myself show you My visiting card , something that you call a miracle... They are neither magical tricks nor siddhic (occult) powers, which can come to everybody with the appropriate discipline and yoga exercises, but My powers to protect, heal and save people and materialize objects originate in God and can be used only by an Avatar. They are in no way designed, disciplined or developed, but flow from cosmic power. (Tapovanam)