Truth
Is a divine attribute, and the foundation of every virtue. To be good and true, is the first lesson we are taught in Masonry. On this theme we contemplate, and by its dictates endeavor to regulate our conduct. Hence, while influenced by this principle, hypocrisy and deceit are unknown among us; sincerity and plain dealing distinguish us; and the heart and the tongue join in promoting each other’s welfare, and rejoicing in each other’s prosperity.
Truth is the foundation of all Masonic virtues; it is one of our grand principles; for to be good men and true, is a part of the first lesson we are taught; and at the commencement of our freedom we are exhorted to be fervent and zealous in the pursuit of truth and goodness.
It is this ‘truth’ that is at the Root of the word “Satsang.”
Truth is the foundation of all Masonic virtues; it is one of our grand principles; for to be good men and true, is a part of the first lesson we are taught; and at the commencement of our freedom we are exhorted to be fervent and zealous in the pursuit of truth and goodness. It is not sufficient that we walk in the light, unless we do so in the truth also. All hypocrisy and deceit must be banished from among us. Sincerity and plain dealing complete the harmony of a Lodge, and render us acceptable in the sight of Him unto whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid. There is a charm in truth, which draws and attracts the mind continually towards it. The more we discover, the more we desire; and the great reward is wisdom, virtue, and happiness. This is an edifice founded on a rock, which malice cannot shake or time destroy.
Satsang
The word ‘satsang’ is a compound word of ‘sat’ and ‘sang’ meaning ‘Truth’ and ‘Commune’, and in the truest masonic spirit, when conjoined ‘Good and Virtuous Company.’
Satsang can mean being in the company of a guru, or in company with an assembly of persons who listen to, talk about, and assimilate the truth. Traditionally, it involves listening to or reading scriptures, reflecting on, discussing and assimilating their meaning, meditating on the source of these words, and bringing their meaning into one’s daily life.
Bhaja govindam Verse 9 says
Sat-sangatve nissangatvam nissangatve nirmohatvam
Nirmohatve nishchala-tattvam nishchala-tattve jivanmuktih
Meaning, good and virtuous company (Satsang) gives rise to non-attachment. From non-attachment comes freedom from delusion. With freedom from delusion, one feels the changeless reality. Experiencing that changeless reality, one attains liberation in this life.
SRI M says, “The most important sadhana here is to worship the Guru, look at Him, meditate upon Him, and also follow the teachings that He has given, the most important of which is to consider all other living beings as part of yourself, because, if you don’t have that, then all this worshiping is of no use”.
Allegorically speaking, Lodge SATSANG will have as its founding purpose the following interpretation of the above verse, “The most important sadhana here is to worship the Guru (MASTER), look at Him, meditate upon Him, and also follow the teachings that He (THE RITUAL) has given, the most important of which is to consider all other living beings (BRETHREN) as part of yourself, because, if you don’t have that, then all this worshiping is of no use”.
