Is holy congregation (Satsang) necessary?
In Sikhism, great emphasis is laid on Satsang. By joining congregational prayers and making contact with saints the devotee comes to divine knowledge. The inspiration given by good people leads to the development of the spiritual personality. Holy people preach purity through personal example and kindle the heart with universal love. They warn the individual of the five great vices. Psychologically, the association with holy men helps as a deterrent against evil thoughts and deeds. Just as a tree which grows near a sandalwood tree acquires the fragrance of sandal, just as a metal when touched with philosopher’s stone is transmitted into gold so in the same way, an ordinary man becomes ennoble and heroic in company of holy men. In the company of The Truthful, a devotee learns the value of “The Truth”. Joining the company of Saints is also conductive to the discipline of mind. One learns how to serve the community and the community and work for the good of humanity. One acquires the tech
