Frequently Asked Questions
Om Amriteshwaryai Namah!
Because Amma comes from India, you will find that many typical satsang practices come from the Hindu tradition; however, Amma says that Her religion is Love and thus not limited to any one tradition or creed.
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 from “sat” meaning Truth or Absolute Existence, and “sang” meaning association with. Thus satsang literally brings an association with the Truth. A regular satsang practice deepens our closeness with Amma all year-round, 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 meditation…This will bring inner purification and strengthen the sense of unity and brotherhood…Participation in satsangs will make our hearts full with thoughts of God.”
2. 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. When the 108 names are chanted, they are often done in unison, call and response with each Sanskrit name, or call and the response with the mantra ‘Aum Amriteshwaryai Namaha’, or ‘Salutations to the Embodiment of Divine Bliss’.By chanting the 108 names, we can develop concentration and focus on the Divinity within, as well as invoke Amma’s subtle presence and blessings
3. Why do we sing bhajans?
Bhajans are devotional songs which can help us gain one-pointedness of mind and increase our devotion. At 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, bhajan sung with one-pointedness, will benefit the singer, the listener and also Mother Nature. Such songs will awaken the listeners’ minds in due course. If bhajan is sung without concentration, it is a waste of energy. Bhajan is a spiritual discipline aimed at concentrating the mind on one's Beloved Deity. Through that one-pointedness, one can merge in the Divine Being and experience the Bliss of one's True Self.”
4. What is arati?
Arati is a traditional form of worship from India. It involves waving 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
5. Why do we meditate?
“Children, you can find the secret of bliss when you think of the nature of the Self. The waves of the mind will subside. Everything is there in you already.”In the diverse spiritual traditions of the world there are different forms of meditation 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 meditation 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.
6. What is prasad?
Prasad is a Sanskrit term describing “God’s gift.” When Amma gives darshan (blessing) in the U. S., She gives out Hershey’s kisses in keeping with a tradition that dates back to the first U.S. 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.
7. 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 may be 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 speak with the satsang leader.
8. 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 by email or phone.
Further teachings by Amma relating to satsang and spiritual practices as well as wonderful stories relating to Her life are included in the “Awaken Children” series, Eternal Wisdom series, Lead Us To The Light, Swami Ramakrishnananda’s series, Swamini Krishnamrita Prana’s book, teachings on www.amritapuri.org and all the books available on www.theammashop.org .
Once again, welcome! Please feel free to contact the satsang leader with any further questions you may have and if there is anything we can do to make your satsang experience more enjoyable, please don’t hesitate to let us know. May your life be filled with Amma’s Love and Grace!