Satsang is a Sanskrit word that means being near the Truth. It means simply being in the presence of an Enlightened Master, being in the energy field. You may get lost in his words, but if you are alert and open, the silence that the words carry will penetrate you. And as you become more open, as you allow his music to enter you, then soon you will reach the source. You will arrive home.

You may not understand the words of the Buddha, but the music will envelope you. This is the melody of the source. The words cannot tell the Truth, but they carry the fragrance of the Buddha, they carry the beat of the heart, they carry the music of the source. All you do is allow the fragrance to enter you.

Satsang is to sit in the presence of the Master, whether in silence or in speaking. If there is too much silence then you may get bored and leave, so the Master speaks and answers questions. But this is simply to make it easier for you to stay in his presence. The questions and answers may give you some indication, some guidance, some encouragement, but the purpose of Satsang is simply to be near the Truth, near the Master.

Umi holds silent Satsangs each weekday morning and speaking Satsangs on Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. At these times, everyone is welcome to sit silently or to ask questions.