The Gift of Satsang

September 11, 2022

The Gift of Satsang

Sat: truth, sang: together or company

Satsang is a gathering with yogic community to uplift our mind and spirit.  The intention in satsang is to think and talk of deeper and higher things in life, beyond the mundane material life. From my studies in India at the ashram,  time spent in satsang is like a warm embrace, as if you are lifted up and carried to the top of the mountain. From the top of this mountain you have a broader perspective, a lighter and more open heart, and a clear mind.

Sage Narada says in his Bhakti Sutras, "The company of the great is very difficult and hard to attain.” We can consider ourselves fortunate to sit in satsang, to have supportive, loving and inspiring people around us. It is a real gift and opportunity. An opportunity to make these moments in satsang a true inspiration to do good in this world. This is the highest task in life, to apply skillful action to do good for the people around us. 

Satsang is often thought of as the boat that carries us through the rocky waters of challenges in life. The solid community that understands the value of striving for higher ideals in life beyond material goods. Satsang keeps the fire of aspiration alive in your heart and head. Satsang is the two hands on your back pushing you onward and upward towards your goals, two hands supporting you from falling back into your old grooves and unhelpful habits, behaviors and ways of thinking and relating to the world. Satsang is your spiritual nourishment. 

I remember one evening during satsang I asked swamiji “I feel as if I am sitting near a fire warming my heart. How can I keep this feeling?”  He said “You must keep this fire alive in your heart by your own efforts, without depending on someone else.” The real Satsanga Bhavan is in your own heart. Even in times when we cannot gather with community, such as the last two years during the pandemic, sit in satsang with yourself. Sit in communion with yourself. Settle into that deep well within you, full of peace, loving awareness, and truth.

~Om~