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सत्संगत्वे नि:संगत्वं,
नि:संगत्वे निमोहत्वं । निमोहत्वे निश्चलचित्तं,
निश्चलचित्ते जीवन्मुक्तिः ॥
During the practice of this holy association, the following points should be observed scrupulously for a successful outcome:
Timings: The aspirant must regularly attend Satsanga, say initially twice a week, and then gradually increasing it to daily sessions. Furthermore, he should also periodically spend a few days in a pilgrimage center or a monastery (Ashrama) as a preparatory state for the forthcoming period of intensive spiritual discipline (Sadhana).
(ii)
Alertness: The aspirant should visit the Satsanga with due devotion and attention, give up the dogmas and be really humble with the highest degree of reverence for the teacher. He should carry out the teacher's instructions unreservedly for progressive self-improvement. During these sessions, he should preferably take notes so that the grasp of the subject becomes firm and clear.
(iii)
Patience and perseverance: In the initial stages of Satsanga, the mind does not take interest in such gatherings, but with gradual training it concentrates on the sermon.
(iv)
Priority: In early stages, involvement in routine worldly activities apparently prevents aspirant from devoting enough time for Sadhana. When priority is given to this holy association and ordinary worldly affairs are subordinated to it, enough time becomes available.
Zealous search: During the pursuit of this holy association, the aspirant should make a genuine and zealous search for a truly enlightened preceptor). If he is fortunate enough to get such a great master with true vision, and is able to act scrupulously in consonance with his instructions, he will not only grasp the basic tenets of spiritual truths within a few months, but will also be able to achieve an aggressive and unprecendental progress in the path of salvation(6. 7. 8).
In addition to the direct company of the masters as mentioned above, other sources of holy association include idol-sight, idol-prayer, idol-worship, and scripture-worship. Among various forms of such devotional practices, the ritual known as Pooja is very inspiring, joyful and popular. It has been rightly acclaimed as a very useful, interesting and purifying daily routine by many aspirants in most parts of the world. It has also been enjoined as a daily ritual
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