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1. Why do we gather for satsang?
Satsang is the gathering of a group of devotees who come together to contemplate the Truth or God. The word is derived form “sat” meaning Truth or Absolute Existence, and “sang” meaning in association with. Thus satsang literally brings an association with the Truth. A regular satsang practice deepens our closeness with Amma all year-around, and also helps us come closer to each other. As we join together in community to cultivate spiritual awareness and inner peace, we honor our relationship with Amma, as well as our True, Divine Selves.
Amma says the following about the value of satsang:
“Do not hesitate to invite friends and co-workers when holding satsang. Make it a habit to get together once a week, at a fixed place or in different homes by turn, for archana, bhajans and mediation… this will bring inner purification and strengthen the send of unity and brotherhood… Participation in satsangs will make our hearts full with thoughts of God.”
Amma says, "Even though the breeze blows everywhere, coolness will be felt more if we sit in the shade of a tree. In the same way, although God is all pervading, His presence will clearly shine in certain places more than in others. Children, that is the greatness of satsang."
Weekly Satsangs are scheduled on Saturday evenings and occasionally on Sunday Afternoons. See Schedules.
2. I have never been to a Satsang - Can Anyone attend ?
Yes, anyone can attend. You do not need to bring anything. You can just come and be with Amma's Children. We hope that you are able to attend sometime.
3. What are the 108 names and why do we chant them?
Written in Sanskrit, the 108 names of Amma are Divine mantras that concentrate and calm the mind when chanted with awareness. The names describe Amma’s personal history and Divine qualities which have inspired countless seekers around the world.
By chanting the 108 name, we can develop concentration and focus on the Divinity within, as well as invoke Amma’s subtle presence and blessings.
4. Do I need to know Sanskrit or Bhajans to attend Satsang ?
No, you don't need to know anything. Most of us knew nothing when we first started attending satsang. By coming to Satsang you will be exposed to Sanskrit chants. We have follow-along sheets to help assist if you would like. We also have extra Bhajan Books that can be borrowed during satsang.
5. Why do we sing bhajans?
Bhajans are devotional songs which can help us gain one-pointedness of mind and increase our devotion. As a satsang, we sing a variety of different bhajans including traditional songs, English chants, and those written by Amma and Her swamis. About bhajans, Amma has said:
“Children, bhajans sung with one-pointedness, will benefit the singer, the listener and also Mother Nature. Such songs will awaken the listener’s minds in due course. If bhajans are sung without concentration, it is a waste of energy. Bhajan is a spiritual discipline and aimed at concentrating the mind on one’s Beloved Deity.
6. What is Arati?
Arati is a traditional form of worship from India. It involves waving of a flame in front of a picture or statue of one’s Beloved Deity. During Arati, we chant a special bhajan in praise of Amma. As we wave the flame and the camphor burns, it disappears without a trace, just as the limited individual disappears when merged in the infinite. Thus, Arati is a symbol of offering our limited self to our Divine Self, inspired by our love for God, in all humility and reverence.
7. Why do we meditate?
“Children, you can find the secret of bliss when you think of the nature of the Self. The wave of the mind will subside. Everything is there in you already.”
In the diverse spiritual traditions of the world there are different forms of mediation whose purpose is one and the same: to help us calm and quiet our minds in order to feel the Divine Presence more clearly in our hearts. Amma has said that mediating is a state of mind, an experience. Whether we watch our breath, focus on an image of our Beloved Deity, chant a mantra, or use another technique, we can enjoy being more present in the moment, thereby letting go of stress and becoming more receptive to God’s Love.
8. What is Prasad?
Prasad is a Sanskrit term describing “God’s gift”. When Amma gives Darshan (blessing) in the US, She gives out Hershey’s kisses in keeping with a tradition that dates back to the first US tour in 1987. Giving out these kisses at satsang helps to remind us of Her presence and gift of endless love, even if She is not physically present.
9. Can I help?
Yes! There are many different ways that individuals can help by offering their time and skills in activities that may interest them. Opportunities are available to help with Amma’s tour, prepare for satsang, participate in fundraising activities, or support Amma’s charities. For more information about how to get involved, please email Melinda with the Community Connections or email lasatsang@yahoo.com.
10. Can I be notified of other satsang events even if I don’t attend satsang regularly?
Absolutely! A sign-up sheet is available where you can provide your contact information. Whenever we have other satsang events, we will notify you my email. To be placed on the Special Events email list, please send a requesting email to lasatsang@yahoo.com.
11. How can I find out more about Amma ?
You can find out more about Amma by visiting her website at amma.org.
12. I hear Amma tours the United States. Will Amma come to my City?
You can see what cities Amma will visit by connecting to Amma.org and click on Amma's 2007 N. American Tour.
