The Importance of Satsang

Satsang is a Sanskrit word that means "gathering together for the truth" or, more simply, "being with the truth." “Sat” means Truth Absolute (Supreme Self) and “sang” means being in association. Satsang is beneficial because it is the association of the Supreme Self, and experiences the same.

Satsang provides the keys to bring reformation in life. The Lord is easily attracted by the magnet of devotion. A person must learn to fix the thoughts and mind first on a personal God with a form and then, after succeeding therein, fix it upon the transcendental form. The highest liberation is possible only by realization of God as the very self in all beings, and it comes only through the maturity of devotion to the personal God and His grace.

Devotees can develop Sraddha (faith) by constant Satsang or association with the sages and service of your Guru. Satsang helps us to walk the path with an assuring confidence. In constant association with noble souls ones knowledge of the scripture become clear and the devotion of our hearts can become deep and firm. Without Sraddha, one will not be able to place his foot-step in the spiritual path or to start the spiritual life. Those who attend satsang lose interest in the transient world and learn how to intensify their love for the Lord. They are not affected by the anguish and distress of worldly life. One who listens to satsang finds his understanding, discrimination and prudence increased. His worries are reduced. His mind naturally kindles dispassion and discrimination in your mind, and protects it from petty desires and attractions. It becomes egoless and free from illusion (of the world). The biggest benefit of all is that the mind will be ever engaged in the thoughts that are inculcated by satsang. He is endowed with virtuous qualities and experiences spiritual bliss, making his life full of happiness.

Many divine personalities have written about the importance of Satsang. One such individual is Sage Tulisidas. Sage Tulisidas wrote the teachings of Shri Ram in the Navadha. Bhakti, which are as follows:

The first step to devotion (Bhakti) is to keep company of the Saints (Satsang)
The second step is to enjoy listening to legends/discourses pertaining to the Lord.
The third step is selfless service to the Guru’s lotus feet without any pride.
The fourth step is to earnestly sing praises of the Lord’s virtues with a heart clear of guile, deceit, or hypocrisy.
The fifth step is chanting God’s name with steadfast faith as shown in the Vedas.
The sixth is to practice self control, good character, detachment from manifold activities and always follow the duties as good religious person.
The seventh step is to perceive the world as God Himself and regard the saints higher than the Lord.
The eighth step is a state (which one arrives at when one travels the first seven steps) where there is no desire left, but the gift of perfect peace and contentment with whatever one has. (In this state) one does not see faults in others, even in a dream.
The ninth step is when one has full faith in the Lord and becomes (child- like,) simple with no hypocrisy or deceit. The devotee has strong faith in the Lord with neither exaltation nor depression in any life circumstance.

Sanaatan Dharma Mandir of New York

The Importance of Satsang

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