The Arul Sattam

The Arul Sattam

Shri Reddiapatti Swamigal developed the Arul Sattam based on the 3 premises, which he identified as the main cause of unhappiness in this earthly world –

1. Lack of faith in the Divine’s grace

2. Practice a way of life against the course of nature

3. Unable to contain the wants of life and living

The results of all these is that we are constantly chasing to acquire materialistic pleasures and hence find ourselves in perpetual dissatisfaction. We are thus bound to lead a life filled with frustrations and constantly endeavour to seek peace and solace outside. Little do we realise that all the peace is only within us. The adoption of Arul Sattam will open our eyes to this dimension and we can through our constant efforts find total happiness within us.

The code as laid down by Shri Reddiapatti Swamigal comprises 16 principles –

1. An unshakeable faith in the omnipresent

2. Head bath everyday in COLD water

3. No consumption of HOT water

4. Absolute belief in one form of the Divine

5. No abuse of any religion or faith

6. Strict vegetarianism. No eggs even

7. Abstain from the 5 ViCeS - Intoxicating products, Lying, Lust, Himsa and Stealing. Intoxicating products include - alcohol in any form, smoking, chewing tobacco. Himsa in Sanskrit means doing harm to anyone, which also includes the very bad act of killing

8. No medicines (use only The Holy Ash - vibhuthi - and cold water bath twice a day to relieve sickness

9. No dependence of astrology or any form of knowing the future

10. No prarthanas (prayers) - wearing of amulets, lucky rings or seek favours in reciprocation for a donation or a service to God

11. No court to law settle disputes; settlement should be achieved through mutual talk and divine help

12. No mourning over the dead; bury them

13. Fast frequently at least once a week every friday

14. Meditate every day either in the morning or before retiring to bed

15. Total Surrender to the divine

16. You will recieve his benefaction; these should be kept as a secret