Satsang

Swami Bhoomananda Tirtha

By any analysis, true self-development takes place only when the individual expands from his own personal and family circle to that larger one of the society, thereby making him endeavour with equal commitment for the growth and welfare of the society.

The culture of Satsang, an age-old tradition of our land, is supreme in its effects on the individual as well as the society.  It grips the mind of one man or woman here or there.  It gets shared then with one or two others close to him.  The three or more then assemble for the sake of common interest and pursuit.  By dint of the creative notes of Nature, their hearts begin to radiate a depth of love and fondness, which wants to encompass many more for the same individual and social promotion.  The fondness grows into an abiding commitment, dedication and exclusiveness, generating the deeper notes of austerity, sacrifice and mutual sharing:  “Whatever I feel good and great, I also feel like sharing with others.”  How can this sharing be effected, becomes the next question.  Ways and means begin to suggest themselves.  Words, thoughts and actions, of however small or big measure these be, irresistibly follow.

This is how true spiritual education takes roots and grows abundantly.  I would like you to understand the potential and the process.  Preserve as well as strengthen them as fondly and deeply as possible.

A house fulfils only its minimum purpose when it begins to host the members of the family to whom it belongs.  The first expansional note is struck when the house heartily hosts relatives and friends, who happen to visit the place.  But the most lofty purpose of the house is served only when it grows into a place of Satsang, welcoming like-minded people heartily for the occasion.  For, it is only through such gatherings and divine exposure that the lasting notes of individual and social virtues are instilled in the minds of people.  To conduct and host such Satsangs, the inmates of the house must have an ample measure of heartiness, dedication and a spirit of sacrifice and adjustment too.  These are the enrichments which crown human life at any time.

[This is an extract from the message delivered by Poojya Swamiji when 
Brahma Vidya Sangh, Jamshedpur, completes 30 years. 
The message was titled 'The Sublime Mission'. 
This appeared in the Jan-Feb 1995 issue of the monthly journal ‘Vicharasetu – The Path of Introspection’ ]

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