a day ago
Why do we need Satsang?
Satsang refers to being associated with good people. Just as food is essential to our physical body, the company of good, noble, and pious men is necessary for a person's soul. The mind will be under control as long as a person is in the circle of satsang. Every day, people face various problems. Leaving them aside, if people elevate their minds, they can derive peace.
In Gitanjali, Rabindranath Tagore appeals to God to raise his head above the daily trifles. Love and affection flowing downwards is called 'attachment'. A person showing affection towards his son or daughter cannot be called bhakti. It is out of predilection. The same shown towards his father, mother and guru is called bhakti. Affinity demonstrated by a person towards their home is called attachment, whereas the same towards one's nation is called patriotism.
In the Kathopanishad, Lord Yama, the God of death, says to the young celibate Nachiketa that if people become immersed in the things they like most, they will end up in peril. If they start introspecting between good and evil, they will derive tranquillity.
Ramanujamji said in a discourse that the term 'Aacharanam' refers to a person setting an example by following himself. Acharyas are those who establish a connection with God and show the paths prescribed by the Vedas, which are easy to follow. Establishing contact with Acharyas is very important.
Why do we need Satsang? It will kindle the desire to engage in spiritual activities. Involvement in spiritual activities will not come automatically. Only the teachings of Mahaans (great people) will make a person immersed.
Chanting the names of God, prostrating through our physical body and making the mind steadfast towards God are all considered as saranagati or surrender, which Acharyas help us practice.
