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Radha Soami Satsang Beas

Radha Soami Satsang Beas (RSSB) is a spiritual organization founded in 1891 by Baba Jaimal Singh in the northern Indian state of Punjab. It is part of a larger movement known as the Sant Mat tradition, which emphasizes inner spiritual practice, personal experience of the divine, and the guidance of a living spiritual teacher or Guru. With millions of followers worldwide, RSSB is one of the most well-known and influential branches of the Radha Soami faith, attracting devotees from diverse backgrounds.

At the heart of Radha Soami Satsang Beas is a path of self-realization and God-realization, which its followers believe can be attained through meditation, ethical living, and the guidance of the Guru. The philosophy espoused by RSSB is centered on devotion to God, the practice of Surat Shabd Yoga (meditation on the inner sound and light), and leading a moral, disciplined life. This article delves into the origins, philosophy, practices, and global reach of Radha Soami Satsang Beas, as well as the social impact and organizational structure of the group.

Origins and Historical Background

Radha Soami Satsang Beas traces its origins to the Sant Mat tradition, a spiritual movement that has roots in medieval India. The Sant Mat path was championed by saints such as Kabir, Guru Nanak, and Ravidas, who preached a direct relationship with God, transcending rituals, caste divisions, and institutionalized religion. In the 19th century, this tradition found a new voice in Sant Shiv Dayal Singh, also known as Soami Ji Maharaj, who is considered the founding master of Radha Soami faith.

In 1891, Baba Jaimal Singh, a disciple of Soami Ji Maharaj, established Radha Soami Satsang Beas as a spiritual center on the banks of the Beas River in Punjab. Baba Jaimal Singh was known for his deep spiritual practice and his ability to guide others on the inner path. The spiritual lineage he established has continued unbroken through a series of Gurus or spiritual masters, each of whom has upheld the teachings and guided the community.

Since its inception, the group has remained apolitical, non-sectarian, and focused on spirituality rather than religious or political agendas. The Gurus of RSSB are considered enlightened beings who serve as spiritual guides, leading their disciples toward a direct experience of God through meditation on the inner divine sound (Shabd) and light.

Core Philosophy of Radha Soami Satsang Beas

The philosophy of Radha Soami Satsang Beas is rooted in the teachings of the Sant Mat tradition. It places emphasis on the inner journey toward self-realization and God-realization, as opposed to outward religious practices and rituals. Key tenets of the RSSB philosophy include:

1. The Importance of a Living Guru: Central to RSSB teachings is the belief in the necessity of a living spiritual master or Guru, who provides guidance on the spiritual path. According to the teachings, only a living master can initiate disciples into the practice of Surat Shabd Yoga and help them navigate their inner spiritual experiences.
2. Surat Shabd Yoga: The primary meditation practice in Radha Soami Satsang Beas is Surat Shabd Yoga, which translates to the “Union of the Soul with the Divine Sound.” This meditation involves focusing on the inner sound and light, which are believed to be manifestations of the divine presence. By concentrating on these inner experiences, practitioners can gradually elevate their consciousness and move closer to realizing their true nature as souls.
3. Rejection of Rituals and Dogma: RSSB teachings reject the need for external rituals, ceremonies, and dogmas. Instead, they encourage individuals to seek direct experience of the divine through meditation and ethical living. This approach is seen as a departure from traditional religious practices that emphasize temple worship, pilgrimages, and other forms of external devotion.
4. Ethical and Disciplined Living: A moral and ethical life is considered essential for spiritual growth. Followers are encouraged to adhere to five principles: vegetarianism, abstinence from alcohol and drugs, honest and ethical behavior, a simple lifestyle, and regular meditation. These principles help create a foundation for spiritual progress and are seen as essential for calming the mind and focusing on meditation.
5. Reincarnation and Karma: RSSB philosophy incorporates the concepts of reincarnation and karma. According to the teachings, souls are bound to the cycle of birth and death (reincarnation) due to their past actions (karma). Through meditation and guidance from the Guru, practitioners can gradually transcend the cycle of reincarnation and merge with the divine.
6. Universal Spirituality: Although RSSB has its roots in the Indian spiritual tradition, it emphasizes universal spirituality that transcends religious boundaries. The teachings are open to individuals of all faiths, cultures, and backgrounds. The Guru is seen as a guide who can help individuals from any religious tradition progress on their spiritual path.

Practices and Meditation

The core spiritual practice of Radha Soami Satsang Beas is Surat Shabd Yoga, which is a form of meditation focused on the inner sound and light. Initiates are taught specific techniques to still the mind, withdraw their attention from the external world, and focus inward on the spiritual realms. The ultimate goal of this practice is to achieve union with the divine and escape the cycle of birth and death.

Meditation Instructions

1. Daily Meditation: Disciples of RSSB are expected to practice meditation for at least two and a half hours each day. This is considered the minimum requirement for making spiritual progress. The meditation involves sitting in a comfortable position, closing the eyes, and focusing on the third eye center (located between the eyebrows). The practitioner listens to the inner sound and visualizes the inner light, with the aim of moving beyond the physical body and entering higher spiritual realms.
2. Mantra Recitation: During meditation, practitioners silently repeat a mantra given to them by the Guru at the time of initiation. This mantra, known as “Simran,” helps to still the mind and draw attention inward.
3. Group Satsang: In addition to individual meditation, followers attend group Satsangs (spiritual discourses) where the teachings of the Guru are discussed, and participants can strengthen their commitment to the path. Satsangs are held at RSSB centers around the world and provide a sense of community for followers.
4. Vegetarianism and Ethical Conduct: The practice of meditation is complemented by a vegetarian diet and adherence to the five principles of ethical living mentioned earlier. Followers believe that a pure and disciplined lifestyle helps to purify the mind and body, making it easier to concentrate during meditation and connect with the divine.

Radha Soami Satsang Beas (RSSB) conducts regular spiritual gatherings known as “Satsangs,” where the teachings of the Radha Soami faith are shared, and devotees are encouraged to practice the path of inner spiritual realization. These Satsangs form the core of the organization’s outreach and community-building efforts, offering followers an opportunity to come together, meditate, and reflect on the teachings of the living Guru.

RSSB Schedule and Format of Satsangs of Radha Soami Satsang Beas

1. Daily and Weekly Satsangs:
   RSSB organizes daily and weekly Satsangs at its various centers worldwide, including its headquarters in Beas, Punjab, as well as satellite centers in India and across the globe. The Satsangs typically last for about an hour to two hours. These gatherings are held early in the morning or late in the afternoon, depending on the local center’s schedule.
2. Annual Bhandaras (Special Gatherings):
   The Dera Beas, which is the main spiritual center, hosts several large gatherings annually called “Bhandaras.” These Bhandaras attract thousands, and sometimes hundreds of thousands, of followers who come to listen to discourses and spend time in spiritual reflection. These special events usually mark important dates, such as the birth or death anniversaries of the past Gurus.
3. Meditation Sessions:
   In addition to the Satsangs, the RSSB centers also hold meditation sessions, where followers are encouraged to practice Surat Shabd Yoga. These meditation sessions are scheduled daily, usually before or after the Satsang gatherings. Practitioners meditate in silence, focusing on the inner sound and light, as taught by the Guru.
4. Initiation Ceremonies:
   For those seeking initiation, RSSB conducts formal ceremonies where new disciples are initiated into the meditation practice by receiving a mantra from the Guru. Initiations are held at the Beas Dera and other centers at specific times, usually during larger gatherings or Bhandaras.

Satsang List and Global Centers of Radha Soami Satsang Beas

1. Dera Beas (Punjab, India):
   The headquarters of Radha Soami Satsang Beas is located on the banks of the Beas River in Punjab. Satsangs at the Dera are conducted regularly, with an influx of devotees during the annual Bhandaras. These large-scale events can attract over a million visitors over the course of a few days. The Beas Dera serves as the focal point of the organization, and the current Guru, Gurinder Singh Dhillon, often delivers discourses here.
2. Centers Across India:
   RSSB has hundreds of Satsang centers spread across India, including major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. Each center has a fixed Satsang schedule, often held on weekends and special occasions. The sessions are usually led by appointed representatives of the Guru, who convey the teachings and guide meditation practices.
3. International Centers:
   RSSB has a growing presence worldwide, with centers in North America, Europe, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East. Countries such as the United States, Canada, the UK, and Australia have numerous Satsang centers where regular gatherings are held. The schedules for these international centers are designed to accommodate the diverse local communities, often on weekends and public holidays. For example, in the United States, Satsangs are held in cities like Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and San Francisco.
4. Online Satsangs:
   With the increasing number of devotees worldwide, especially during the pandemic, RSSB has also adopted online platforms for broadcasting Satsangs. These online gatherings are accessible to followers who may not be able to physically attend the centers. While the teachings and meditations are conducted in local languages, English translations are often available.

Radha Soami Satsang Beas offers a structured schedule of Satsangs, meditation sessions, and other spiritual activities that are designed to help followers deepen their understanding of the teachings and maintain regular spiritual practice. The organization’s extensive network of centers across India and internationally ensures that followers worldwide can attend regular Satsangs and stay connected with the teachings, regardless of their geographical location. With a strong focus on discipline, ethics, and meditation, the RSSB schedule is crafted to support the spiritual growth of its devotees.

Spiritual Leadership of Radha Soami Satsang Beas

Radha Soami Satsang Beas is led by a spiritual master, who is referred to as the Satguru. Since the establishment of RSSB, the spiritual leadership has passed through several Gurus, each of whom is considered an enlightened being with the ability to guide others on the path of spiritual awakening.

• Baba Jaimal Singh (1839–1903): The founder of RSSB, Baba Jaimal Singh, was a disciple of Soami Ji Maharaj and the first Guru of the Beas branch. He established the Dera (spiritual center) in Beas, which became the headquarters of the movement.
• Baba Sawan Singh (1858–1948): Succeeding Baba Jaimal Singh, Baba Sawan Singh is regarded as one of the most influential Gurus in the history of RSSB. Under his leadership, the movement grew significantly, and many Western seekers were attracted to the teachings. Baba Sawan Singh also initiated several prominent Western spiritual teachers, including Julian Johnson.
• Baba Charan Singh (1916–1990): Baba Charan Singh was known for his compassionate leadership and deep commitment to the teachings of the Radha Soami path. He expanded the organization’s global reach and initiated a large number of disciples.
• Gurinder Singh Dhillon (1954–Present): The current spiritual head of RSSB, Gurinder Singh Dhillon, assumed leadership in 1990. He has continued to guide the organization and oversee its expansion internationally. Under his leadership, RSSB has grown to become a global movement with millions of followers around the world.

Global Reach and Influence of Radha Soami Satsang Beas

Over the decades, Radha Soami Satsang Beas has expanded its presence far beyond India, with centers in North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. As globalization has increased and the world has become more interconnected, the movement has attracted followers from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds.

International Centers of Radha Soami Satsang Beas

RSSB operates hundreds of Satsang centers worldwide, where followers can attend spiritual discourses, meditate, and participate in community activities. Some of the most notable centers include:

• Beas, India: The main spiritual center, or Dera, is located in Beas, Punjab. This large complex includes meditation halls, accommodation for visitors, and facilities for community service. It is also the residence of the current Guru, Gurinder Singh Dhillon.
• USA: RSSB has established several centers across the United States, with large congregations in California, Texas, and New York. These centers serve as places of gathering for followers to practice meditation, attend discourses, and participate in spiritual retreats.
• UK and Europe: In Europe, RSSB has a significant presence in the United Kingdom, as well as in countries such as Germany, France, and Spain. The European centers serve the growing number of followers in these regions, many of whom are second or third-generation immigrants from South Asia.

Social Service and Charity

Radha Soami Satsang Beas places a strong emphasis on service to humanity, which is seen as

an extension of spiritual practice. The organization is involved in a variety of charitable activities, including education, healthcare, disaster relief, and environmental conservation. Followers are encouraged to engage in selfless service, or “seva,” as a means of purifying the mind and developing compassion for others.

RSSB runs several charitable hospitals and schools, primarily in India, where medical care and education are provided to underserved communities. Additionally, the organization has been involved in relief efforts during natural disasters, such as earthquakes and floods, providing food, shelter, and medical assistance to affected populations.

Conclusion

Radha Soami Satsang Beas is a spiritual organization rooted in the Sant Mat tradition, with a focus on inner spiritual practice, ethical living, and the guidance of a living Guru. Over the past century, RSSB has grown into a global movement, attracting millions of followers from diverse backgrounds. Through its teachings, practices, and emphasis on universal spirituality, RSSB offers a path to self-realization and God-realization for individuals seeking a deeper connection with the divine.

As the world continues to grapple with materialism, conflict, and spiritual confusion, the teachings of Radha Soami Satsang Beas offer a way to transcend these challenges by turning inward and realizing the inherent divinity within all beings. Through meditation, ethical conduct, and the guidance of the Guru, followers of RSSB strive to experience the ultimate truth and achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

FAQs

1. What is Radha Soami Satsang Beas (RSSB)?
   • RSSB is a spiritual organization that follows the teachings of Sant Mat, focusing on meditation and the inner spiritual journey.
2. Who founded Radha Soami Satsang Beas?
   • RSSB was founded by Baba Jaimal Singh in 1891.
3. Where is the main center of Radha Soami Satsang Beas located?
   • The main center is located on the banks of the Beas River in Beas, Punjab, India.
4. Who is the current head of Radha Soami Satsang Beas?
   • The current head is Jasdeep Singh Gill.
5. What are the core teachings of Radha Soami Satsang Beas?
   • The core teachings include meditation, living a moral life, and following a lacto-vegetarian diet.
6. What is the purpose of meditation in RSSB?
   • Meditation is practiced to connect with the inner self and achieve spiritual realization.
7. What are the four vows taken by initiates in RSSB?
   • The four vows are to adhere to a lacto-vegetarian diet, abstain from alcohol and drugs, lead a pure and moral life, and practice daily meditation.
8. What is the initiation process in RSSB?
   • The initiation process involves applying for initiation, meeting the Master’s representative, and taking the four vows.
9. What is the role of the Master in RSSB?
   • The Master guides and supports the disciple on their spiritual journey, helping them achieve self-realization and God-realization.
10. What is the significance of the Beas River in RSSB?
    • The Beas River is considered a sacred place for meditation and spiritual practice.
11. What is the Sant Mat path followed by RSSB?
    • Sant Mat, or the path of the saints, focuses on the inner spiritual journey and the practice of meditation.
12. What is the Radha Soami movement?
    • The Radha Soami movement is a spiritual tradition that emphasizes the union of the soul with its Lord through meditation and spiritual practice.
13. What is the role of the Master’s Radiant Form in RSSB?
    • The Master’s Radiant Form is believed to guide and support the disciple on their spiritual journey.
14. What is the significance of the Satguru in RSSB?
    • The Satguru, or perfect living Master, is central to the teachings and practices of RSSB, guiding disciples on their spiritual path.
15. What is the goal of RSSB?
    • The goal is to achieve self-realization and God-realization through meditation and spiritual practice.
16. What is the role of the Master’s Representative in RSSB?
    • The Master’s Representative helps guide and support disciples, ensuring they follow the teachings and practices of RSSB.
17. What is the significance of the Beas Dera in RSSB?
    • The Beas Dera is the main center of RSSB, where disciples gather for meditation and spiritual practice.
18. What is the role of the Seekers’ Guide in RSSB?
    • The Seekers’ Guide provides information for those interested in applying for initiation and following the teachings of RSSB.
19. What is the role of the RSSB website?
    • The RSSB website provides information about the organization, its teachings, and how to apply for initiation.
20. What is the role of the RSSB community?
    • The RSSB community supports and encourages disciples on their spiritual journey, providing a network of like-minded individuals.