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(9)
What does Satsang mean?
Answer: The
word ‘satsang’ can be broken down to ‘sat’
and ‘sang.’ ‘Sat’ means  truth
and ‘sang’ means company. Thus, literally ‘satsang’
means keeping ‘true company.’ This means keeping
company of the true sadhu, Pramukh Swami Maharaj and obeying
his commands. In practice, it is not practical to remain
physically in the company of Pramukh Swami Maharaj all the
time. So, as per his wish, if we attend the weekly satsang
assemblies in our local center, and keep the company of
other devotees and sadhus wherever possible, that is also
known as ‘satsang’.
Also, the word ‘Satsang’ is often used to mean
the organisation (BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha) as a whole.
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(10)
What are niyams?
Answer: A ‘niyam’ is a rule.
By taking a ‘niyam’ we promise Shriji Maharaj
and  Pramukh
Swami Maharaj to follow a certain code of behavior to earn
their blessings. An example of a niyam is doing puja every
day. By following this niyam we promise to God and the Satpurush
that we will pray every day, no matter what. Therefore, by
continuing to follow the niyams we take, God and the Satpurush
become pleased and we progress in Satsang. Shriji Maharaj
has written the Shikshapatri, in which he has specified all
the basic ‘niyams’ all devotees must observe.
In addition to these, Prumukh Swami Maharaj also specifies
certain ‘niyams’ which are to be observed by all.
For example, daily family assembly (ghar sabha), giving Satsang
Examination, etc.
Some ‘niyams’ are to be observed by all for life.
Others are for specified periods. You should consult the sadhus
or senior devotees at your center for further guidance. |
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(11)
Why should we attend Bal/Balika Sabha regularly?
Answer: By attending Bal/Balika Sabha regularly,
we experience peace within our
 lives
and we progress in Satsang. Attending Bal/Balika Sabha is
important because not only do we get to learn about the greatness
of God, but we also get to learn about the greatness of other
devotees. We get to meet other kids just like us, who live
pure lives to please Shriji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
We get to make new friends, learn about our Hindu culture
and traditions, and find out how we can live a spiritual life
that will lead us to Akshardham. We should regularly attend
Bal/Balika Sabha so we can continue to experience peace and
happiness by staying within the rules of Satsang.
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(12)
Who were the paramhansas?
Answer: The
paramhansas were the highest order of sadhus initiated by
Bhagwan
Swaminarayan. Their devotion and dedication towards Shriji
Maharaj, despite facing many hardships, was exemplary. They
practiced strict spiritual disciplines and
moved continuously throughout society carrying the message
of purity to people of all backgrounds. They helped to abolish
superstitions, addictions and wrong practices. They also helped
in times of famine and drought. |
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