A Chapter of the Akshar-Purushoam Samhita
ENGLISH
A Shastra Explaining the Principles ofA Shastra Explaining the Principles of
Agna and Upasana as Revealed by Agna and Upasana as Revealed by
Parabrahman Bhagwan SwaminarayanParabrahman Bhagwan Swaminarayan
SATSANG DIKSHA
Author
Pragat Brahmaswarup Mahant Swami Maharaj
Pragat Brahmaswarup
Mahant Swami Maharaj
‘Agna and upasana are two wings.
Do not let go of them.
Then Akshardham can be easily reached.
There is no doubt in that.’
- Aksharbrahman Shri Gunatanand Swami
Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Aksharbrahman Gunatanand Swami
(Shri Akshar-Purushoam Maharaj)
Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Bhagatji Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj
Shri Swaminarayano Vijayate
Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Aksharbrahman Gunatanand Swami
(Shri Akshar-Purushoam Maharaj)
Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Bhagatji Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj
Shri Swaminarayano Vijayate
A Chapter of the Akshar-Purushoam Samhita
SATSANG DIKSHA
A Shastra Explaining the Principles of
Agna and Upasana as Revealed by
Parabrahman Bhagwan Swaminarayan
Author:
Pragat Brahmaswarup
Mahant Swami Maharaj
Sanskrit Verses:
Mahamahopadhyay
Sadhu Bhadreshdas
English Translaon:
BAPS Sadhus
Swaminarayan Aksharpith
Ahmedabad
Publisher’s Note
Under the auspices of the Pramukh
Swami Maharaj Centenary Celebrations
1921–2021, we take great pleasure and
pride in presenting the ‘Satsang Diksha’
shastra authored by Pragat Brahmaswarup
Mahant Swami Maharaj.
Bhagwan Swaminaryan nourished and
fostered the timeless traditions of
Hinduism through his contribution of a
called Akshar-
Purushottam Darshan. In so doing, he
introduced a new spiritual pathway to
ultimate moksha for countless souls. In his
moral and spiritual teachings, called the
Shikshapatri and Vachanamrut, Bhagwan
viii Satsang Diksha
of spiritual sadhanas for the experience of
dealings and knowledge. Both the shastras
include the essence of all the Hindu
shastras.
In the past two centuries, the Gunatit
-
tion and knowledge founded by Bhagwan
Swaminarayan, to inspire and bless count-
less aspirants with the experience of the
A concise form of all the spiritual
knowledge and sadhanas propagated by
Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the Gunatit
gurus is presented for all aspirants in the
‘Satsang Diksha’ shastra, authored and
Publisher’s Note ix
Swami Maharaj Swamishri.
He started writing this shastra on the
30
January 2020
completed it on Hari Jayanti 2 April
2020Swamishri wrote this shastra amidst
his unceasing and tireless vicharan, daily
the daily correspondence and administra-
during the early morning. Once Swa-
namely, Pujya Ishwarcharandas Swami,
x Satsang Diksha
-
warupdas Swami, Pujya Anandswarupdas
Swami, Pujya Narayanmunidas Swami,
Pujya Bhadreshdas Swami and others, to
-
shastra is included
in the ‘Akshar-Purushottam Samhita’
shastra, which expounds the teachings of
Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s philosophy and
bhakti tradition in the Sanskrit language.
On Swamishri’s instruction the ‘Satsang
Diksha’ shastra was rendered into Sanskrit
by the Sanstha’s renowned scholar,
Mahamahopadhyay Bhadreshdas Swami.
checked the Sanskrit translation with the
Publisher’s Note xi
the
necessary changes.
On the holy day of Guru Purnima 5
July 2020, in Nenpur, Gujarat, Mahant
Swami Maharaj performed the pujan
rituals of the ‘Satsang Diksha’ shastra and
dedicated
the lotus feet of Bhagwan Swaminarayan,
Aksharbrahman Gunatitanand Swami,
Brahmaswarup Bhagatji Maharaj, Brahma-
swarup Shastriji Maharaj, Brahmaswarup
Yogiji Maharaj and Brahmaswarup
Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
has
blessed future generations with an
teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and
xii Satsang Diksha
feet. We anticipate that this shastra will
clarify and inspire one’s spiritual sadhanas
for attaining ultimate moksha.
We also take great joy in publishing an
English edition of ‘Satsang Diksha’, which
includes an English transliteration of the
English translation of the Gujarati text.
- Swaminarayan Aksharpith
Foreword
‘Satsang Diksha’ is a shastra authored
in Gujarati by Pragat Brahmaswarup Ma-
hant Swami Maharaj, the sixth spiritual
shastra presents the principles of gn and
taught by Bhagwan Swami-
Mahamahopadhyay
shastra is a part of the ‘Akshar-
Purushottam Samhita’ shastra, which ex-
Swaminarayan’s principle teachings and
xiv Satsang Diksha
-
ate countless so
-
ciple of Akshar-Purushottam for the
purpose of attaining the highest moksha.
way of life in consonance with the eternal
Vedic principles of Akshar-Purushottam.
by countless satsangis from the time of
Bhagwan Swaminarayan to the present.
For the spiritual nourishment and growth
of the Satsang Bhagwan Swaminarayan in-
spired an unceasing parampar and legacy
of Aksharbrahman Gunatit gurus.
and are the two princi-
Foreword xv
ples of satsang taught by Bhagwan
Swaminarayan. He explained and elabo-
rated upon these two principles in his
-
discourses by the paramhansas.
Aksharbrahman Gunatitanand Swami
discoursed about and consolidated the
narayan, spiritual sadhanas and principles
Brahmaswarup Bhagatji Maharaj
propagated that Gunatitanand Swami was
Aksharbrahman and Bhagwan Swami-
narayan was Parabrahman Purushottam.
xvi Satsang Diksha
Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj tolerated
colossal hardships and opposition to
enshrine the principle of Akshar-
Purushottam taught by Bhagwan
Swaminarayan in the form of murtis in the
central shrines of shikharbaddh mandirs.
Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj fostered
the Satsang with the nectar of samp,
and . He spearheaded and
established the BAPS children and youth
forums and Sunday satsang assemblies to
of and Brahmaswarup
Pramukh Swami Maharaj made Herculean
organization. He inspired the writing of
Foreword xvii
to 1,000 youths and
Presently, the organization is helmed
by Pragat Brahmaswarup Mahant Swami
Maharaj, the sixth spiritual master in the
Gunatit guru
enlightened with the fundamental princi-
ples of satsang. His teachings of one God,
one guru and one principle, and the
Since the time of Bhagwan
Swaminarayan the Sampraday has seen
xviii Satsang Diksha
the creation of shastras that nourish the
principles of and among its
followers. Also, shastras related to
philosophy, spiritual sadhana, bhakti, dos
in disseminating and consolidating the
summarize the teachings of all the shastras
of the Sampraday, Mahant Swami Maharaj
had long wished that a single shastra be
made. He thus discussed this with the
in doing the sev of writing such a shastra.
‘Satsang Diksha’ includes
a wide range of essential topics: Bhagwan
Swaminarayan is Parabrahman Purush-
ottam Narayan, supreme, the all-doer, and
Foreword xix
manifest on earth; the Gunatit guru is Ak-
sharbrahman, the embodiment of Narayan
because he is eternally God-realized, and
the ideal for all spiritual aspirants to at-
tain the
and for him are the essence of
-
coming aksharrup
this shastra. In addition, it includes con-
templation of certain thoughts as part of
one’s internal sadhana, namely, thoughts
about Parabrahman’s attainment ,
Bhagwan’s doership , Bhag-
wan’s pleasure , , ephemeral
nature of the world, through asso-
xx Satsang Diksha
and introspection.
‘Satsang Diksha’ also encompasses as-
pects like abstaining from discouraging
talks, not looking at others’ faults and sid-
ing paksh
the purpose of establishing mandirs and
-
-
ing niyam
attending the weekly satsang , doing
personal daily puja and , per-
forming and other rituals before the
ghar mandir and doing daily .
, which is part of this
-
Foreword xxi
-
sonally consolidate the satsang principles
related to and in one’s life,
-
icate oneself for the two principles.
‘Satsang Diksha’ -
sence of all that is to be understood and
practised in Satsang as propagated by
Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the Gunatit
guru and also all that is being
On the sacred day of 5 July 2020,
Ashadh sud
Brahmaswarup Mahant Swami Maharaj
performed the pujan rituals of this shastra
xxii Satsang Diksha
As a tribute to Pramukh Swami Maha-
raj’s Centenary Celebrations, Pragat
Guruhari Mahant Swami Maharaj dedi-
cated this shastra, ‘Satsang Diksha’, at the
holy feet of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and
the Gunatit gurus.
Pragat Brahmaswarup Mahant Swami
Maharaj has truly blessed the entire
Satsang fellowship by writing this shastra
established by Bhagwan Swaminarayan
-
main indebted to him for his contribution
and grace.
Foreword xxiii
-
hamahopadhyay Bhadreshdas Swami for
translating the ‘Satsang Diksha’ into San-
skrit. Our sincere appreciations to
Aksharananddas Swami, Brahmasetudas
-
English.
May we truly attain the Swaminarayan
satsang by daily reading, contem-
Sadhu Ishwarcharandas
5 July 2020
Ahmedabad
Pronunciation Guide
Sanskrit Transliteration
In Sanskrit, a word is pronounced ex-
actly as it is written.
Consonants to be pronounced similar
to English sounds.
‘a’
in a word is always pro-
nounced
as a
short
‘a’.
Vowel sounds can be short denoted by
a i u or long .
a,
i, u, t, d, n are explained below.
Pronunciation Guide xxvii
Vowel Written as Pronounced
short a a As in but, hut
long a aa As in bat, car
short i i As in bit, fit
long i ee As in beet, feet
short u u As in foot, put
long u oo As in boot, moon
Sounds pronounced by touching the
tongue to the roof of the mouth are de-
noted by a dot under the letter .
Dental sounds pronounced by touching
xxviii Satsang Diksha
the tongue against the teeth, are denot-
ed by a normal letter without any
symbols t, d, n.
Gujarati Transliteration
For Gujarati words, only the ‘short a’
and ‘long a’
nouns.
-
tained in the English translation text are
collated in the Glossary.
H
Shri Swaminarayano Vijayate
H
Satsang Diksha
Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj sarvane
May Swaminarayan Bhagwan, who is
Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj himself,
1
bestow ultimate peace, bliss and happiness
on all.
Purushottam Maharaj are synonyms and refer to the one
supreme entity – Parabrahman, Paramatma.
2 Satsang Diksha
moksha, not
merely a means for indulgence in sense
pleasures. Rare and perishable, this body
is not repeatedly attained. 2
to
Satsang Diksha 3
Naiva sa paramam lakshyam
3
only
birth. 3
deh
–
Kartum Bhagavato bhaktim
asya dehasya lambhanam.4
4 Satsang Diksha
5
attained by practising satsang.
2
mumukshus should always practise satsang.
4–5
2
Satsang Diksha 5
6
For this reason, Parabrahman Swami-
narayan himself manifested in this world
7
been composed with the pure intent that
mumukshus
satsang.
6 Satsang Diksha
–
Satyasya cha guroh sangah
8
9
One should know that the true meaning
of satsang is to associate with the ,
Satsang Diksha 7
which is true; to associate with
Paramatma, who is true; to associate with
the guru, who is true; and to associate
with true shastras. One who practises this
9
dradh
8 Satsang Diksha
10
and
Paramatma are clearly expressed in this
shastra. 11
Satsang Diksha 9
All males and females are entitled to
satsang, all are entitled to happiness and
all are entitled to . 12
10 Satsang Diksha
In Satsang, superiority or inferiority
on gender. All can attain moksha through
-
scribed for them. 13
tyajine paraspar
–
Satsang Diksha 11
All men and women of all castes are for-
and
moksha. Do not attribute notions of supe-
riority and inferiority based on varna. All
persons should shun their ego based on
12 Satsang Diksha
is superior and no one is inferior by birth.
on caste or class and should joyfully prac-
tise satsang.
Gruhastha
Householders and renunciants are all
entitled to moksha. Between them neither
is inferior or superior, because house-
Satsang Diksha 13
of Bhagwan.
3
3
14 Satsang Diksha
Akshara-guru-yogena
Akshara-guru-yogena
4
(19)
4
Satsang Diksha 15
Sahajanand Shri Hari
brahma-swarup Gunatit guruno pritie ka-
For the moksha of one’s , a mumukshu
Shri Hari and the Aksharbrahman Guna-
tit guru.
5
20
Swaminarayan Bhagwan through the association of the
without sins, I am fearless and I am blissful.”
5. ‘Gunatit guru’ refers to the Aksharbrahman guru, who is
beyond .
16 Satsang Diksha
Upon taking the refuge of satsang, one
should always wear a double-stranded
wooden kanthi around the neck and
accept the niyams of satsang. 21
Satsang Diksha 17
In this world, cannot be
fully realized in life without the Brahma-
swarup guru.
22
uttam nirvikalp nishchay na thai shake
Without the Aksharbrahman guru,
. ‘Brahmaswarup guru’ refers to the Aksharbrahman guru.
18 Satsang Diksha
nishchay
in Paramatma cannot be attained and
one’s .
23
trividh
Without the Brahmaswarup guru, perfect
bliss cannot be attained and the three
Satsang Diksha 19
types of misery
also cannot be eradicated.
24
-
refuge of the manifest Aksharbrahman
guru, who enables one to attain all objec-
25
beings, the deities and personal shortcomings.
20 Satsang Diksha
Sarva satsangioe sarve
dur-vyasanono
rogonu
All satsangis should always renounce all
harmful addictions, as addictions cause
numerous illnesses and miseries.
Satsang Diksha 21
substances, such as alcohol, bhang and
tobacco. One should also refrain from
smoking.
Sarve stri
22 Satsang Diksha
in any form of gambling or adultery.
Satsangis
onions, garlic or hing. 29
Satsang Diksha 23
One should consume water, milk and
other drinkable items only
-
ages that are forbidden
consumed. 30
Satsangis
24 Satsang Diksha
31
32
Satsang Diksha 25
–
33
34
birds and bugs or other insects and
26 Satsang Diksha
adharma. 33–34
35
35
yagna, satsangis
harm goats or any other innocent animals.
35
Satsang Diksha 27
36
When yagnas are held, they should only be
conducted without harming any beings
and according to the Sampraday’s princi-
ples.
Yagnano shesh ganine ke pachhi
37
Satsangis
28 Satsang Diksha
is considered to be the remnant of a yagna
38
One should not swear, insult or commit
other forms of subtle harm or injury.
Satsang Diksha 29
39
wealth, power, prestige or
desire for a man or woman or anything
-
lence out of ego, jealousy or anger. 39
4
30 Satsang Diksha
-
lence pains Swaminarayan Bhagwan, who
resides within that person. 40
4
from heights, hanging oneself, consuming
poison or any other means. 41
Satsang Diksha 31
4
No one should kill oneself or others out of
grief, shame, fear, anger or due to illness
sake of dharma. 42
4
32 Satsang Diksha
43
A mumukshu
moksha or
merits. 43
44
44
Satsang Diksha 33
Bhagwan is the all-doer, compassionate
and the protector of all; at all times, he
44
4
45
-
cial. His wish alone is my . He
alone is my liberator. 45
34 Satsang Diksha
4
46
-
ties will certainly be destroyed. I will sure-
ly attain peace, supreme bliss and
happiness.
4
47
Satsang Diksha 35
manifest form of Akshar-Purushottam
Maharaj. With his strength, I will surely
4
48
With the strength of such thoughts, a
courage and remains joyous due to the
strength of Bhagwan.
36 Satsang Diksha
4
49
-
cate in places prohibited by the shastras
and society. 49
-
Satsang Diksha 37
and internal purity. Shri Hari
purity and is pleased with those who are
pure. 50
Satsangibhih praboddhavyam
Satsangis should always wake up before
. ‘Shri Hari’ is another name for Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
38 Satsang Diksha
routines, they should put on clean clothes.
51
and perform personal daily puja facing
east or north. 52
chandan vade urdhva-pundra tilak karvu
Satsang Diksha 39
4
kumkumena cha chandrakam.53
54
While chanting the Swaminarayan mantra
and remembering the guru, apply a U-
shaped tilak made from chandan
that has
Bhagwan and a kumkum chandlo to the
40 Satsang Diksha
forehead. One should also apply a tilak-
chandlo of chandan to the chest and both
arms. 53–54
55
While remembering Bhagwan and the
guru, women should imprint only a kum-
kum chandlo
should not apply a tilak. 55
Satsang Diksha 41
56
57
42 Satsang Diksha
58
refuge of satsang should meditate on their
while contemplating upon the glory
9
One should identify one’s with
Aksharbrahman and perform
with a calm and focused mind.
9
this mantra is as follows: “I am akshar
Purushottam.”
Satsang Diksha 43
Bhagwan ane brahmaswarup guru ja mok-
-
59
Only Bhagwan and the Brahmaswarup
guru can bestow moksha
should only meditate upon them and per-
form their . 59
-
-
44 Satsang Diksha
murtis on a clean cloth in a way that one
can easily do their darshan.
In the centre, one should arrange the
murtis of Akshar and Purushottam, that is,
Gunatitanand Swami and the one who
Satsang Diksha 45
transcends him, Shriji Maharaj.
paryant pratyek guruoni murtio
One should then place the murtis of each
guru up to Pramukh Swami Maharaj and
the murtis of the gurus whom one has per-
46 Satsang Diksha
63
Shriji Ma-
Mantra.
10
One should bow with folded
hands and with .
10
into one’s puja.
Satsang Diksha 47
4
64
65
Shri-Hare Purushottama;
48 Satsang Diksha
11
-
11
this mantra is as follows:
“O Sahajanand Shri Hari! O Purushottam! O Akshar-
brahman Gunatit gurus! Please shower compassion upon
me and awaken. Please come forth from my , to
presence and darshan.”
Satsang Diksha 49
66
67
and a steady mind,
one should perform while chanting
-
shan of the murtis-
tinuing to do darshan of the murtis, one
should stand on one leg with arms raised
50 Satsang Diksha
and perform .
68
One should then perform of
the murtis while contemplating upon Ak-
-
Satsang Diksha 51
69
, males should
perform and fe-
.
-
One should perform an additional dandvat
52 Satsang Diksha
hurting or harbouring ill-will towards
-
should pray with
while chanting the Swaminarayan mantra
dhun.
Satsang Diksha 53
gaman mantrathi Akshar-Purushottam
way, one should re-install Akshar-Purush-
ottam Maharaj within one’s by recit-
ing the Punaragaman Mantra.
12
12
conclude one’s puja.
54 Satsang Diksha
73
Akshara-Purushottama.
13
13
this mantra is as follows:
“O Purushottam Narayan together with Aksharbrahman! I
.
Now, please reside within my .”
Satsang Diksha 55
4
yatra santi arer guroho.74
then daily read shastras that encompass
the teachings and instructions of Shri
Hari and the gurus.
56 Satsang Diksha
75
performing puja in this way should one
76
Satsang Diksha 57
77
If one is incapable of doing puja because
another.
-
58 Satsang Diksha
78
satsangi in a household should keep
same day that he or she is born.
Satsang Diksha 59
sarvaih satsangibhir gruhe.79
All satsangis should place a beautiful man-
dir within their homes where they can
satsang. Within the mandir, one should
murtis of Akshar-Purushottam and the
Gunatit gurus of the tradition.
60 Satsang Diksha
satsangis
should perform the and sing the stuti
before the ghar mandir.
Satsang Diksha 61
While performing the , one should de-
‘Jay Swami-
narayan, Jay Akshar-Purushottam…’ with
a steady mind and while clapping.
83
to the murtis in the ghar mandir
62 Satsang Diksha
-
4
84
One should not consume foods, fruits,
-
ing them to Bhagwan. Foods and other
items that may be impure should not be
eaten.
Satsang Diksha 63
85
While sitting in front of the ghar mandir,
-
centration, sing kirtans, chant and engage
in smruti
according to one’s preferences.
64 Satsang Diksha
86
Family members should gather daily for
and engage in bhajan, discus-
-
-
-
Satsang Diksha 65
87
88
Shri Hari inspired the creation of mandirs
-
tect pure and bhakti. He instruct-
ed that, along with Bhagwan, one should
-
66 Satsang Diksha
89
Aksharbrahman is Bhagwan’s supreme
-
-
Satsang Diksha 67
mok
sha
constructed and the murti of Aksharbrah-
man is also ceremoniously consecrated
with Purushottam Bhagwan in the central
shrines of these mandirs. 90–91
-
68 Satsang Diksha
brahma sahit Purushottam Bhagwanne
Similarly, Aksharbrahman and Purushot-
tam Bhagwan are also always consecrated
in the central shrines of mandirs in homes
and other places. 92
anukul samaye pratidin bhaktie karine
Satsang Diksha 69
93
satsangis
darshan. 93
4
94
All satsangi men and women should al-
ways dress in a manner that safeguards
their dharma. 94
70 Satsang Diksha
95
attend the weekly assemblies held at a
nearby mandir or centre. 95
-
Satsang Diksha 71
96
Akshar, is the manifest form of Paramatma
Parabrahman Purushottam Hari.
97
worthy of
supreme
72 Satsang Diksha
98
Gunatitanand Swami is the manifest form
Aksharbrahman is manifest
Satsang Diksha 73
99
In the Sampraday’s tradition of gurus that
began with Gunatitanand Swami, only the
present form of Aksharbrahman is our
guru. 99
74 Satsang Diksha
Our is the same, our guru is the
same and our is also the same –
thus, we are always united. 100
One should know and realize
Akshar-Purushottam , which is
Vedic, eternal and the form of brahma
. 101
Satsang Diksha 75
-
Mumukshus-
tities – jiva, ishwar, , Aksharbrahman
eternal and true. Swaminarayan Bhagwan
76 Satsang Diksha
himself established this clear .
–
4
Among these entities, Akshar and Purush-
ottam are the two who are eternally be-
yond . Jivas and ishwars attain moksha
by associating with them.
brahmathi par chhe ane Aksharbrahma
pan
te Paramatmani nitya
Satsang Diksha 77
superior to Aksharbrahman. Furthermore,
Paramatma with . 105
-
praka
78 Satsang Diksha
Bhagwan is eternally the all-doer, with
form, and supreme; he always remains
manifest for the moksha of mumukshus.
-
wan always remains present with all of his
Aksharbrahma gurune vishe dradh priti
Satsang Diksha 79
for the Aksharbrahman guru.
80 Satsang Diksha
Aksharam Brahma vigneyam
beyond this world and auspicious. Shri
Hari himself bestowed this mantra. All
understand that ‘Swami’ refers to
Satsang Diksha 81
Aksharbrahman, and ‘Narayan’ refers to
Purushottam, who is superior to
Aksharbrahman. 109–110
guruhari Pramukh Swami Maharaje
4
82 Satsang Diksha
Uchyate darshanam divyam
Satsang Diksha 83
spread it throughout the world. Shastriji
Maharaj enshrined it in the form of murtis.
jivancharitra texts
was
securely established by guruhari
Pramukh Swami Maharaj in his own
may be
imbibed in one’s life through the
association of the manifest guruhari. It is
this eternal and moksha-bestowing
‘Akshar-Purushottam Darshan’. 111–114
84 Satsang Diksha
, one should engage in
enthusiasm. 115
Identify one’s , which is distinct from
Satsang Diksha 85
the three bodies, as brahmarup and always
to Parabrahman.
perform bhakti without dharma.
86 Satsang Diksha
from bhang, alcohol and other such sub-
Satsang Diksha 87
stances, as well as gambling, swearing and
119
or anyone other than Parabrahman and
bhakti. 120
88 Satsang Diksha
When faced with criticism, shame, fear or
-
tion towards him, or the guru. 121
Satsang Diksha 89
-
be one’s great fortune and with the goal of
attaining one’s moksha. 122
One should not let time pass wastefully
90 Satsang Diksha
123
4
One should perform tasks while engaging
. By
doing so, one will not become attached to
one’s actions, be burdened by them or
124
Satsang Diksha 91
One should fruitfully use time by
performing , listening to discourses,
smruti, meditating, studying, singing
kirtans of Bhagwan and engaging in other
125
92 Satsang Diksha
One should take the refuge of satsang to
attain ultimate moksha.
satsang to attain the pleasure of Swami-
narayan Bhagwan and the Gunatit gurus.
Satsang Diksha 93
Purushottam here in this life. With the
always relish the bliss of satsang.
94 Satsang Diksha
discourses, meditation, austerities, pil-
Satsang Diksha 95
enmity or for the attainment of worldly
with faith, pure intentions and the wish
to please Bhagwan. 129–130
Bhagwan or the guru, since both Akshar
and Purushottam are beyond and di-
131
96 Satsang Diksha
-
wan and the guru, renounce feebleness,
Bhagwan. 132
Satsang Diksha 97
upon and repeatedly recall the incidents
of Swaminarayan Bhagwan. 133
Mumukshuoe pratyaksh Aksharbrahma
4
pratyakshasya mumukshubhihi.
Mumukshus should always associate with
the manifest Aksharbrahman guru with
. 134
98 Satsang Diksha
guru is the only means to attaining the
state and realizing Bhagwan. 135
Satsang Diksha 99
-
man guru and to experience Parabrahman,
of the Aksharbrahman guru.
sevan karvu ane temne vishe pratyaksh
One should associate with one’s guruhari
through thought, word and deed and
should realize him as ‘Narayanswarup’ –
100 Satsang Diksha
the manifest form of Narayan Parabrah-
man.
A satsangi
discouraging words. One should always
speak encouraging words.
Satsang Diksha 101
continuously speak of the glory of Brahman
and Parabrahman and the greatness of
those who are associated with them. 139
Mumukshue satsangione vishe suhrad-
4
102 Satsang Diksha
Mumukshus should keep , divya
and toward satsangis140
Paramatma Parabrahma Swaminarayan
41–14
With discretion, one should always keep
Satsang Diksha 103
the paksh of Paramatma Parabrahman
Swaminarayan Bhagwan, the Aksharbrah-
141–142
Bhagwan ane brahmaswarup guruni
43–
144
104 Satsang Diksha
One should always obey the commands of
Bhagwan and the Brahmaswarup guru.
One should realize their inner wishes and
should be followed without laziness,
immediately, and always with joy, enthusi-
asm, and an eagerness to please
them. 143–144
Pratidin sthir chitte antardrashti karvi ke
4
Satsang Diksha 105
kim kurve’ham iheti cha.
With a composed mind, one should
to accomplish in this world and what am I
doing?” 145
4
106 Satsang Diksha
each day without laziness.
-
47–14
Satsang Diksha 107
Swaminarayan Bhagwan is the all-doer,
14
reason, I am joyous, greatly fortunate, ful-
4
14. Creator, sustainer and destroyer.
108 Satsang Diksha
In this way, with a composed mind, one
attainment of Paramatma, his greatness
and attaining his pleasure. 149
-
Realizing one’s to be distinct from
the three bodies,
15
the three states,
and
15 sthul gross, sukshma subtle and causal.
waking, dream and sushupti
deep sleep.
Satsang Diksha 109
-
brahman. 150
-
nent nature of the world and on one’s
as eternal and . 151
, and – the three
.
110 Satsang Diksha
One should understand that all which has
happened, which is happening, and which
will happen is solely due to Swaminarayan
152
Satsang Diksha 111
One should daily pray to Swaminarayan
Bhagwan and the Brahmaswarup guru
153
4
112 Satsang Diksha
When one experiences impulses of ego-
tism, jealousy, lust, anger, and other base
akshar
154
Also, one should remain strong in the be-
lief that Swaminarayan Bhagwan himself,
who is the destroyer of all base instincts,
is always with me. 155
Satsang Diksha 113
vivekibhir mumukshubhihi.
swadharma and
renounce pardharma. Swadharma means to
114 Satsang Diksha
mumukshu should
realize that pardharma is disregarding
their instructions and acting wilfully.
apparently bene-
-
Satsang Diksha 115
gress the niyams of satsang or cause one to
lapse from dharma.
-
those who are senior in age, possess
expressing other forms of regard. 159
116 Satsang Diksha
One should always respect the learned,
seniors and teachers. According to one’s
capacity, one should honour them with
good words and other such deeds.
Satsang Diksha 117
and other merits. One should encourage
them in noble works according to their
abilities.
118 Satsang Diksha
One should speak words which are true,
defamatory, harsh or hateful.
4
Satsang Diksha 119
-
ers.
-
120 Satsang Diksha
results in the displeasure of Bhagwan and
the guru.
If extremely necessary, it is acceptable to
authorized person.
Satsang Diksha 121
that is hurtful or damaging to others or
With
122 Satsang Diksha
In happy times do not get carried away
and in unhappy times do not become
Swaminarayan Bhagwan’s wish.
Satsang Diksha 123
anyone. One should always be well-
mannered and remain calm.
action, thought or writing.
124 Satsang Diksha
Householder satsangis
Shvashurah pitruvat sevyo
Satsang Diksha 125
her own father and mother-in-law as her
own mother. A father- and mother-in-law
should care for their daughter-in-law as
they would for their own daughter.
4
126 Satsang Diksha
Householders should diligently nurture
their sons and daughters through satsang,
One should speak pleasantly at home. One
should renounce bitter speech and not
harm others with malicious intent.
Satsang Diksha 127
Householders should joyously eat meals
to guests according to their means.
128 Satsang Diksha
occasions, one should perform additional
discourses and remember Akshar-
Purushottam Maharaj.
One should always impart to
one’s sons and daughters by teaching them
Satsang Diksha 129
-
From when a child is in the womb, one
should instil
Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj by reading
the sacred texts of satsang and through
other noble acts.
130 Satsang Diksha
wrong intent. In the same manner, wom-
wrong intent.
Satsang Diksha 131
Except in emergency situations, married
with women other than their wife.
Similarly, married
remain alone with men other than their
husband, except in emergency situations.
132 Satsang Diksha
A male should not touch a female who is
-
spectfully touch one who is closely relat-
ed. Similarly, a female should not touch a
she may respectfully touch one who is
closely related.
Satsang Diksha 133
4
In emergency situations, it is not a fault to
always obey the niyams.
134 Satsang Diksha
other media that contain obscene scenes
which destroy one’s dharma and .
Satsangis should not associate with people
adulterous.
Satsang Diksha 135
should not associate with immoral women
niyams.
136 Satsang Diksha
One should not listen to talks or songs,
one’s lustful desires.
and other assets should always be con-
ducted in writing, in the presence of a
Satsang Diksha 137
witness and by
such niyams.
-
ing and by following other such niyams.
190
138 Satsang Diksha
Satsangis
with immoral persons and should be com-
passionate towards those who are meek
191
Satsang Diksha 139
-
192
should not be spent wastefully. One
should spend according to one’s income.
193
140 Satsang Diksha
4
One should always accurately keep ac-
counts of one’s income and expenditure in
194
Satsang Diksha 141
one-tenth or one-twentieth of one’s in-
and to attain his blessings. 195
money and other possessions according to
142 Satsang Diksha
their needs, circumstances and means.
According to one’s means, one should
other sustenance for one’s domesticated
animals and birds.
-
Satsang Diksha 143
One should not betray the trust of or
wealth, objects, land or other commodities.
144 Satsang Diksha
One should pay employees the amount of
money or other forms of remuneration
199
A satsangi should not commit betrayal.
One should uphold one’s promise. A
pledge should not be broken. 200
Satsang Diksha 145
Rulers should follow dharma that is nec-
for the people, foster their growth and
146 Satsang Diksha
safeguard
-
fence, electricity, food, water and other
201–202
A person should be assigned suitable tasks
such factors. 203
Satsang Diksha 147
4
One should happily reside in a country
where one can worship Bhagwan and
204
148 Satsang Diksha
A person who migrates elsewhere for
educational, economic or other gains
niyams. 205
In the country one resides, one should
-
Satsang Diksha 149
patience and joyously worship Akshar-
Purushottam Maharaj within.
150 Satsang Diksha
-
and addictions. 209
Satsang Diksha 151
Students should study with concentration,
210
152 Satsang Diksha
From childhood, one should strengthen
-
fearful. 211
From childhood, one should practise
Satsang Diksha 153
to one’s mother and
father.
During adolescence and early adulthood,
one should exercise greater self-control
and refrain from improper physical
destroy one’s energies physical, mental
and spiritual.
154 Satsang Diksha
4
are appropriate and lead to good out-
entertain one’s mind or gratify others.
214
Satsang Diksha 155
should daily perform puja and do satsang.
215
156 Satsang Diksha
In this world, the company one keeps has
one should always keep the company of
-
pany.
Satsang Diksha 157
One should renounce the company of
those who are lustful, ungrateful, dishon-
est, hypocritical or deceitful.
158 Satsang Diksha
One should not associate with those who
deny Bhagwan and his incarnations,
to Paramatma or
a form, to be formless. Do not read such
texts.
Satsang Diksha 159
One should renounce the company of
those who decry mandirs and Bhagwan’s
murtis
and other such righteous conduct. 220
One should not associate with those who
oppose taking refuge in a guru, Vedic texts
160 Satsang Diksha
or the path of bhakti. 221
such a person is intelligent in worldly ac-
222
Satsang Diksha 161
One should not associate with those who
ridicule faith in spiritual matters and
promote logic alone. 223
4
Satsange’pi kusango yo
Mumukshu
kusang
162 Satsang Diksha
associate with it. 224
Harau gurau cha pratyakshe
niyams or see
human traits in the manifest form of
Bhagwan or the guru. 225
-
Satsang Diksha 163
speak only ill of others, are wilful or
disobey the guru.
164 Satsang Diksha
One should not associate with those who
defame noble works, sacred texts or
satsang.
Gurau Harau cha satsange
One should shun the company of those
Bhagwan, the guru or satsang.
Satsang Diksha 165
One should respectfully associate with a
-
tion in Akshar-Purushottam and who is
discerning. 229
166 Satsang Diksha
One should respectfully associate with
those who do not doubt the words of
Bhagwan or the guru, and are trustworthy
and wise. 230
One should respectfully associate with
those who always eagerly follow com-
mands with enthusiasm and determina-
231
Satsang Diksha 167
One should respectfully associate with
-
wan and the guru. 232
168 Satsang Diksha
One should respectfully associate with
those in satsang who eagerly imbibe the
. 233
4
Satsang Diksha 169
One should respectfully associate with a
person whose conduct and thoughts aim
solely to please the guru. 234
One should study and teach the Sanskrit
-
cording to one’s abilities and preferences.
235
170 Satsang Diksha
-
One should daily read the Vachanamrut,
Swamini Vato and the jivancharitras of the
Gunatit gurus with adoration.
Satsang Diksha 171
-
narayan Bhagwan and the Gunatit gurus
satsangis
satsangis should, with a calm mind, listen
to, contemplate on and repeatedly recall
them daily with -
tion.
172 Satsang Diksha
words that go against the Sampraday’s
principles or raise doubts. 239
4
Satsang Diksha 173
Swaminarayan Bhagwan in one’s heart,
according to the guru’s instructions. 240
41–24
174 Satsang Diksha
and
other fasts, as well as chanting the
Swaminarayan mantra, performing
, listening to spiritual dis-
,
and the wish to please Bhagwan. 241–242
4
Satsang Diksha 175
During this time, one should also regular-
ly read and teach the Sampraday’s shastras
according to one’s preference and ability.
243
44
satsangis
244
176 Satsang Diksha
4
-
narayan and the Aksharbrahman gurus
-
tion. 245
4
Satsang Diksha 177
According to their means, satsangis should
special days related to Shri Hari and the
gurus.
kirtan karvu ane visheshe karine mahi-
4
satsangis
sing kirtans to the accompaniment of in-
struments and especially discourse on the
glory [of God and guru].
Chaitra sud nomne divase Ramchandra
178 Satsang Diksha
4
On the day of Chaitra sud 9, one should
pujan to Ramchandra Bhagwan. On
vad
pujan to Krishna Bhagwan.
Shivratrine vishe Shankar Bhagwannu
sud chothne divase
4
Satsang Diksha 179
pujan to
sud 4,
pujan to Ganpati. 249
Aso vad chaudashne divas Hanumanjinu
On Aso vadpujan to
the deities of any mandir that one comes
across. 250
180 Satsang Diksha
251
Akshar-Purushottam Maharajne vishe
Satsang Diksha 181
one should not disrespect any other deity.
252
religions, or their followers.
182 Satsang Diksha
always treat them with respect. 253
4
shastras or sadhus. One should honour
them appropriately according to one’s ca-
pacity. 254
Satsang Diksha 183
bhaktyartham eva kevalam.
other austerities are undertaken, they
should be performed only as bhakti and
with the intent to solely please Bhagwan.
255
184 Satsang Diksha
-
sumed.
-
-
during daytime destroys the merits earned
by the austerity of fasting.
Satsang Diksha 185
If one desires to go on a pilgrimage to the
-
186 Satsang Diksha
narayan or the Aksharbrahman gurus, one
should do so according to one’s means and
preferences.
One may go on a pilgrimage to Ayodhya,
Mathura, Kashi, Kedarnath, Badrinath,
Rameshwar and other sacred places ac-
cording to one’s means and preferences.
Satsang Diksha 187
-
certainly follow its disciplines. Males
should not touch females and females
should not touch males.
188 Satsang Diksha
Niyamam anusrutyaiva
At the mandir, males and females should
always dress according to the norms of
satsang.
for the darshan of Bhagwan or the
guru.
Satsang Diksha 189
4
During a solar or lunar eclipse, all satsang
is-
190 Satsang Diksha
gage in Bhagwan’s bhajan. During that
time, one should not sleep or eat, but sit
in one place to sing kirtans dedicated to
Bhagwan and undertake other forms of
Grahanni mukti thaye sarva janoe sa-
and soak the clothes they are wearing.
Satsang Diksha 191
donations.
One should perform rituals related to
birth, death and according to the
Satsang tradition.
192 Satsang Diksha
If one has acted immorally, one should
piously atone to please Bhagwan.
One should follow the rules described for
emergencies only in times of crisis. Do not
-
Satsang Diksha 193
When agonizing calamities arise, one
act to protect oneself and others.
194 Satsang Diksha
When faced with circumstances that may
result in death, one who is wise should act
according to the guru’s teachings to pro-
sarvaih satsangibhir janaihi.
Satsang Diksha 195
and abilities, all satsangis should genuinely
act, atone and engage in dealings accord-
ing to the traditions of the Satsang and
the guru’s instructions.
4
196 Satsang Diksha
niyams
-
bhuts, prets or .
Satsang Diksha 197
On auspicious and inauspicious occasions,
one should recite the sacred ‘Sahajanand
198 Satsang Diksha
, karma and
Satsangis should always renounce inappro-
priate indulgence in the sense pleasures,
addictions and superstitions.
Satsang Diksha 199
Akshar-Purushottam Maharajne sarva-
, karma and other fac-
tors to be the doers. One should realize
Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj as the all-
doer.
-
-
Vipattishu dhared dhairyam
200 Satsang Diksha
Maharaj.
-
Satsang Diksha 201
brahman guru. All sadhus should always
brahmacharya.
-
Renunciants should renounce money and
202 Satsang Diksha
4
nirlobhatvam sadaiva cha.
Purushottam Maharaj, renunciants should
,
nirlobh, , nissneh, , and the
4
Satsang Diksha 203
Renunciants should identify their
to Swaminarayan Bhagwan with
.
204 Satsang Diksha
Renunciation is not merely self-denial; it
renunciation is for attaining Akshar-
Purushottam Maharaj.
and are
bestow utmost bliss.
Satsang Diksha 205
206 Satsang Diksha
strengthen and in their life
according to this shastra earn the pleasure
of Bhagwan and become a recipient of his
sthiti
master
-
wan, ultimate moksha and bliss.
Satsang Diksha 207
Attaining oneness with Aksharbrahman
-
ottam is considered to be mukti. 291
-
-
208 Satsang Diksha
Here, in this way, and
been concisely described. One should ob-
tain further details from the Sampraday’s
shastras. 292
4
Satsang Diksha 209
Satsangis should daily read this ‘Satsang
293–294
Paramatma Parabrahma Swaminarayan
210 Satsang Diksha
was
established by Paramatma Parabrahman
Swaminarayan Bhagwan and spread by
based on this .
Satsang Diksha 211
moksha to the mumukshus, the
compassionate Parabrahman Swami-
narayan Bhagwan manifested on this earth
both in this world and beyond.
212 Satsang Diksha
Sarvatra Paramatma Parabrahma Swami-
of Paramatma Parabrahman Swami-
-
where. 299
Satsang Diksha 213
May all grief, the three types of miseries,
calamities, distresses, ignorance, doubts
and fears of all be destroyed. 300
good health, happiness, utmost peace and
ultimate moksha. 301
214 Satsang Diksha
sarvadaiva parasparam.
May no one harm or hate others. May
302
Akshar-Purushottamne vishe sarvane
-
Satsang Diksha 215
4
Bhavantu balinah sarve
following dharma and attain the pleasure
of Sahajanand Paramatma. 304
216 Satsang Diksha
are peaceful, righteous and engrossed in
path of spirituality. 305
-
Satsang Diksha 217
May mutual unity, , friendship,
among all people.
sambandhe karine satsangne vishe sarvane
-
man and Parabrahman, may all strengthen
and towards the
Satsang.
218 Satsang Diksha
-
May all identify their as aksharrup
-
janand.
Vikram Samvat 2076na Magh shukla
-
yo ane Chaitra sud navmie Swaminarayan
Satsang Diksha 219
Magha Maha sud 5 30 January 2020
-
ed on Chaitra sud 9 2 April 2020 , on
-
narayan Bhagwan. 309–310
220 Satsang Diksha
Pramukh Swami Maharajna janma
4
Satsang Diksha 221
On the occasion of Pramukh Swami Ma-
haraj’s birth centenary celebrations, this
-
tion as a tribute to: 1 Parabrahman Saha-
janand Shri Hari – the focus of ,
2 Mul Akshar Gunatitanand Swami, 3
222 Satsang Diksha
Bhagatji Maharaj – the embodiment of
wisdom, 4 Yagnapurushdasji Shastriji
Maharaj – the protector of the true sid
, 5
blissful embodiment of Aksharbrahman,
Yogiji Maharaj and Guru Pramukh
Swami Maharaj, who is humble and re-
311–314
Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj sakal vish-
Tanotu sakale vishve
Satsang Diksha 223
May Swaminarayan Bhagwan, who is
Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj himself,
spread supreme bliss and auspiciousness
throughout the entire world. 315
. Here, Swaminarayan Bhagwan and Akshar-Purushottam
Maharaj are synonyms and refer to the one supreme entity
– Parabrahman, Paramatma.
224 Satsang Diksha
shastra which explains the principles of
and
Swaminarayan. It has been written by
Pragat Brahmaswarup Mahant Swami
Maharaj in Gujarati in his own
handwriting and rendered into Sanskrit
Bhadreshdas.
Glossary
adharma unrighteousness
a spiritual and moral ordinance
or command
aksharrup the state of oneness with Akshar-
brahman
piece of cloth that is used to sit on
one of the four stages of life
soul
an intense emotional bond that
culminates in oneness
bhut
state of oneness with the Akshar-
brahman guru; understanding
226 Satsang Diksha
brahmarup the state of oneness with Akshar-
brahman
the knowledge of Akshar and Pu-
rushottam
state of oneness with Akshar-
brahman
chandan sandalwood
a round mark that is usually ap-
plied to the forehead and may be
accompanied by a tilak
a type of austerity that is based
on the phases of the moon
a four-month period that in-
cludes the Indian monsoon sea-
son and other months, during
are undertaken
-
Glossary 227
understanding a person or an ob-
a day of fast that occurs approxi-
dharma
and bhakti
ghar mandir a mandir in one’s home
gathering of family members to
guruhari the Aksharbrahman guru
hing asafoetida, a spice
ishtadev chosen deity or object of worship
ishwar sentient being that carries out
tasks related to the creation, sus-
tenance and destruction of the
228 Satsang Diksha
jiva an individual or soul
jivancharitra biography
time
kanthi
stringed together and worn
around the neck as a symbol of
refuge in God and guru
kusang bad company and other forms of
the understanding of greatness or
glory
rosary, prayer beads
a form of mental worship
-
-
ignorance
moksha ultimate liberation from the cycle
of births and deaths
Glossary 229
mumukshu genuine spiritual aspirant
murti sacred image
nirlobh
nishchay
nissneh
desire for tasty foods
niyams
paksh -
cate and to protect
a type of prostration
tradition
pardharma not obeying the commands of
God and guru, but acting wilfully
230 Satsang Diksha
circumambulation
destiny, fate
pret
pujan a form of worship
understanding the as exis-
tent (sat/sach), sentient (chid) and
blissful ()
spiritual organizations
prostration; also known as
or dandvat
satsang association of the Satpurush
(Aksharbrahman)
satsangi one who practises satsang
-
ceased
a principle or teaching
Glossary 231
smruti remembrance or recollection of
God and guru
stuti
sud bright half of a lunar month
fraternity, kinship or fellowship;
also,
swadharma one’s duties
turning rosary while standing on
one leg with arms raised
tilak a religious mark applied to the
body, usually the forehead, arms
and chest
faithful worship, philosophical
understanding
vad dark half of a lunar month
detachment
varna caste, community
yagna
A Chapter of the Akshar-Purushoam Samhita
ENGLISH
A Shastra Explaining the Principles ofA Shastra Explaining the Principles of
Agna and Upasana as Revealed by Agna and Upasana as Revealed by
Parabrahman Bhagwan SwaminarayanParabrahman Bhagwan Swaminarayan
SATSANG DIKSHA
Author
Pragat Brahmaswarup Mahant Swami Maharaj
Pragat Brahmaswarup
Mahant Swami Maharaj
‘Agna and upasana are two wings.
Do not let go of them.
Then Akshardham can be easily reached.
There is no doubt in that.’
- Aksharbrahman Shri Gunatanand Swami
