Whenever there is a concerted attempt to learn the real value of any subject, there are initially three methods available. The first is to learn alone from trial and error. The second is to study writings on the subject and attempt to put them to practise. The third is to learn from someone who may have already practised the first two methods for many years. The fourth is to put all of these three together, only possible when the right guidance of a teacher and true teaching are available.

The best method is to learn from an accomplished master of the subject who has learned from a living and successful handed down tradition which has kept itself up to date. When the subject is the acquisition of self knowledge then right guidance is the appropriate term. This means the method given under the best conditions mentioned above, which includes the company of others who share the same aim.

The Sanskrit term Satsang is a source of this right guidance. It is a scenario in which those who seek to realise the true self within, come together with the grace and guidance of an already Self realised soul to systematically study and put to practise a traditional teaching.

Mevlana recommends SATSANG
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