Radha Soami is a spiritual movement that originated in the 19th century in Punjab, India. It claims to be based on Sikh teachings, but has diverged from mainstream Sikhism and has distinct beliefs and practices.
The Basics of Sikhism: The fundamental beliefs and principles of Sikhism, such as the unity of God, the importance of the Guru, and the authority of the Guru Granth Sahib.
History of Sikhism: The historical roots of Sikhism, including the life of Guru Nanak, the development of Sikh scripture, and the growth of the Khalsa.
Radha Soami Teachings: The teachings of Radha Soami, including the concept of the inner light, the practice of meditation, and the pursuit of spiritual awakening.
Radha Soami Philosophy: The philosophical underpinnings of Radha Soami, including the belief in a single spiritual reality and the importance of the soul in attaining spiritual enlightenment.
Radha Soami Practices: The various practices associated with Radha Soami, including Simran (chanting the name of God), Sewa (voluntary service), and Sangat (communal worship).
The Concept of Naam or Shabad: The meaning and significance of Naam or Shabad (divine sound) in Radha Soami, the importance of meditation and the use of sound in spiritual practice.
The Role of the Guru: The importance of the Radha Soami guru in spiritual practice, including the role of the guru in providing spiritual guidance and support.
The Concept of Seva: The meaning and significance of Seva (selfless service) in Radha Soami, the importance of serving others as an expression of divine love.
The concept of Mayas and Karma: The concept of Maya and Karma in Radha Soami, the idea that the physical world is an illusion (Maya) and that our actions have consequences (Karma).
The Khalsa: The role of the Khalsa (Sikh community) in the history and development of Sikhism, including the principles of the Khalsa and the importance of the Khalsa in Sikh society.
Radha Soami Satsang Beas (RSSB): One of the largest organizations of the Radha Soami sect, founded by Baba Jaimal Singh Ji Maharaj in 1891.
Dayalbagh Satsang: Founded by Shiv Dayal Singh in the mid-19th century, this organization places emphasis on the concept of "Radhasoami" or the union of the soul with the divine.
Radha Swami Satsang Dinod (RSSD): Based in Haryana, India, this organization is influenced by the teachings of Radha Swami Dayal, who emphasized the importance of sound meditation to achieve spiritual liberation.
Spiritual Science Research Foundation (SSRF): An international organization that combines aspects of the Radha Soami philosophy with elements of Hinduism and Buddhism.
Sant Mat: A spiritual path originating in India that emphasizes meditation and inner enlightenment, with influences from the teachings of the Radha Soami sect.
Ravidassia: A Sikh sect founded by Guru Ravidas in the 15th century, which incorporates Radha Soami teachings into their beliefs and practices.
Kabir Panth: A religious movement that originated in the 15th century, founded by the poet-saint Kabir, which incorporates elements of both Hinduism and Sufi Islam, as well as influences from the Radha Soami teachings.