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meeting with a true saint. Then we will be able to do the second category of satsang and will have a good fortune of listening to the words of realized beings who presently reside among us. As we continue in association with a great saint, and with the saint's blessings, we will gradually begin to meditate and undertake the prescribed spiritual disciplines. By diligently practicing these disciplines, we will one day, experience the first category of satsang—the association with the Supreme. When we have thus accomplished the highest category of satsang, our life's ultimate purpose will be fulfilled. We will now examine some of the scriptures and the sayings of saints in this regard:
In the Yajur Veda, satsang is known as the Buddhi yoga (dhiyam). This is the yoga of intellectually discerning the truth. The Yajur Veda elaborates on the significance of the Buddhi
yoga:
O Dear Aspirants! In order to realize the essential form of the Supreme Being, first practice the Buddhi yoga (satsang), then Mānas yoga (practice mantra and focus on the Divine form), and the Yoga of Light (Dristi yoga). By these practices you will establish the ground for the realization of Divine Union.
In the Maha Upanishad, satsang is considered essential for Liberation:
On the gate of liberation are found four gate keepers endowed with wisdom. These four are: discipline,
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