Satsang is a compound Sanskrit word that means “keeping the company of the Self.” The Self, Awareness, is the true nature of everyone and one keeps company with it by continually meditating on it in many ways. One of the most effective methods involves discussing non-dual teachings with someone who has realized his or her identity as the Self, to get clarity with reference to Self inquiry. The satsangs posted here are the questions of many people around the world who are interested in enlightenment and find that Vedanta is their preferred means of Self knowledge. Since I am a teacher of Vedanta, a time tested means of self inquiry, I am qualified to reply to these questions.Search & Read
ShiningWorld Reader
Thanks
Akil: Hi, James. Since today is Guru Purnima, I thought it would be an appropriate day to express myself.
About a year ago I was struggling with the concepts of karma yoga, i.e. performing actions without expecting a result, or making sure that all actions are done selflessly. Then I came across your online satsangs and book, and things started to make sense. I started to understand the big picture, like what karma yoga really is, what moksa actually is and the difference between knowledge and experience, and why that distinction is so important. At present I still feel that I am at the qualifying/maturing stage, so I am trying to do my life as karma yoga. But basically the point of this mail was to say thanks. Thank you so much for making Vedanta available in an understandable manner. Your teachings have helped me immensely and have given me a clear direction in how to proceed on this path. I wish I could express my gratitude better, but the words seem to be failing me.
~ Again, thank you, Akil
PS: As of right now I don’t have any burning questions, but I was wondering if I could ask them to you if/when they come up.
James: Dear Akil, lovely to hear from you. I am very happy that Vedanta is working. And I appreciate your appreciation. Yes, you can write if you have questions. It may take a while for the response because I have become quite popular and I have to put the letters in a queue, but I will reply.
~ James