Satsang is a Sanskrit term meaning ‘association with truth’ or ‘company of the wise’ referring to gatherings where spiritual teachings are shared in community. These sacred assemblies bring together seekers and teachers to explore spiritual truths through discourse chanting meditation and questions. The underlying principle is that spiritual growth accelerates in the company of others on the path.
Traditionally satsang involves sitting with a realized teacher (guru or acharya) absorbing wisdom through their presence teachings and the collective energy of the gathering. The format typically includes spiritual discourse scriptural study call-and-response chanting and periods of meditation or contemplation. Questions from participants often drive the discussion allowing teachings to address practical concerns of spiritual life.
Many yoga traditions consider satsang an essential practice alongside asana and meditation particularly emphasizing its importance for maintaining inspiration when facing obstacles on the spiritual path. The Bhagavad Gita and other texts highlight how spiritual company strengthens resolve clarifies understanding and protects against doubt and confusion.
In contemporary yoga communities satsang has evolved to include various formats—from traditional guru-led gatherings to more democratic circles where wisdom is shared collectively. Many modern teachers emphasize that true satsang creates a field of elevated consciousness where deeper truth becomes tangible beyond intellectual understanding alone.
