Satsang () is an audience with a
satguru for the purpose of spiritual or yogic instruction. The ''satsanga'' is a gathering of good people
for the performance of devotional activities.
Meanings
The word is derived from the
Sanskrit
Sanskrit (; stem form ; nominal singular , ,) is a classical language belonging to the Indo-Aryan languages, Indo-Aryan branch of the Indo-European languages. It arose in northwest South Asia after its predecessor languages had Trans-cultural ...
''sat'' meaning "purity or truth", and ''sanga'' meaning "in group or association". Thus the literal meaning of ''satsang'' is "the company of Truth", but it holds multiple meanings within the
Sant and
Bhakti traditions of northern India.
Charlotte Vaudeville defines Sant as a distinct tradition because of its emphasis on devotion to the Divine Name (satnam), the Divine Guru (satguru), and the importance of the company of devotees (satsang). "
Sat
The SAT ( ) is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. Since its debut in 1926, its name and Test score, scoring have changed several times. For much of its history, it was called the Scholastic Aptitude Test ...
" (truth) in Indian traditions refers to that which is eternal and changeless. Along with "
Cit" (consciousness) and
Ä€nanda (bliss), it is a quality of
Brahman
In Hinduism, ''Brahman'' (; IAST: ''Brahman'') connotes the highest universal principle, the ultimate reality of the universe.P. T. Raju (2006), ''Idealistic Thought of India'', Routledge, , page 426 and Conclusion chapter part XII In the ...
(supreme being). In this context, Satsang represents an experience of Brahman, particularly as the personal Lord residing within the human heart.
In
bhakti traditions, satsang takes on a communal aspect, signifying gatherings of devotees for inspiration and focus amidst worldly distractions. It includes listening to spiritual discourses and singing praises of the divine.
The main purpose of conducting satsanga by any organisation is for marking an important event in its history.
Participating in any satsanga is considered pious in yogic sciences due to its benefits in spiritual upliftment of an aspirant.
Satsangs are generally conducted by any non-religious or spiritual organisations in large groups.
Activities
The following activities may take place in a satsanga:
* Spiritual discourse
* Bhajans
* Chanting of
mantras
*
Meditation
* Tree planting
* Cleanliness programmes
* Spiritual stories
* Weddings
See also
*
Guru
Guru ( ; International Alphabet of Sanskrit Transliteration, IAST: ''guru'') is a Sanskrit term for a "mentor, guide, expert, or master" of certain knowledge or field. In pan-Indian religions, Indian traditions, a guru is more than a teacher: tr ...
*
Rishi
In Indian religions, a ''rishi'' ( ) is an accomplished and enlightened person. They find mention in various Vedic texts. Rishis are believed to have composed hymns of the Vedas. The Post-Vedic tradition of Hinduism regards the rishis as "gre ...
*
Pandit
References
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Rituals in Hindu worship