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Vision & Mission
Ultimate salvation is our final goal. It is gained by understanding the supreme, eternal and unmatched philosophy and principles of Bhagwan Swaminarayan as preached by Jeevanpran Bapashree. It is our mission to spread this sacred philosophy to as many as possible.
Our Beliefs
SMVS’s unique identity lies in firmly adhering to the eternal and original principles of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and following the beliefs stated in the predominant scriptures of the Swaminarayan sect, namely, the ‘Shikshapatri’ and ‘Vachanamrut’. Thus, thousands of individuals get inspiration to act according to the beliefs of SMVS. Here is a brief description of those foundational beliefs:
Spiritual Practices
The spiritual path has unique activities, penance, and endeavors to obtain closeness to God. By performing these activities, the soul obtains experiential knowledge of itself. When the soul learns about itself and its source of life, God, a new fascination awakens. A longing to join God arises within the soul. Philosophical knowledge and spiritual activities combine to give the fruits of divine experiences, which help elevate the soul into the ranks of an Anadimukta.
Philosophy
Every organization’s philosophy is deeply rooted in its guiding principle. The principle of SMVS is a clear reflection of the organization’s entire philosophy. Let’s understand the organization’s philosophy through this principle. 1. What is Siddhānt / principle? Siddhānt, or principle, refers to what is meant to be achieved at the conclusion of Upasana, devotion, worship, or spiritual practice. What is a Siddhānt Sutra / Principle Statement? A Siddhānt Sutra, or Principle Statement, is the statement where the organization’s core principle is explicitly stated. What is the Siddhant Sutra of SMVS? SMVS’ Siddhant Sutra is: ‘To understand the supreme Upasana of Lord Swāminārāyan and attain the ultimate status of an Anādimukta is Kāran Satsang.’ What is the reason behind SMVS’ principle? The establishment of SMVS is to carry forward the principles taught by Lord Swāminārāyan, further expanded by Abjibapashri, and to instill these values in people for generations to come. To uphold these principles, Abjibapashri clarified the distinction between Kārya Satsang and Kāran Satsang, encouraging less emphasis on Kārya Satsang and a greater focus on Kāran Satsang by cultivating a Kāran-focused mindset. Therefore, it is natural for SMVS’ Siddhānt Sutra to align with this path.
Spiritual Commandments
Bhagwan Swaminarayan has given His sants and devotees special rules to adhere to and to live by after becoming His disciples. For sants, it involves detachment from worldly life and following five vows that ensure cleanliness in daily life. For devotees, the rules are such that they can live happily even though they are in worldly life. These commandments are their ideals and boundaries.
Principles
Along with upholding an elevated level of knowledge and principles, it is equally important to take care of several spiritual and social values. Religious respect, courtesy, and humanity are fundamental values the SMVS organization is active on. All the individuals who become a part of this organization are given the inspiration to accept and follow these ideals. Through these ideals, all individuals can enjoy the true happiness of life by improving their speech, behavior, thoughts, and virtues.
Founder and Tradition
In 1987, Shriji Maharaj, Himself established the SMVS organization through Gurudev Bapji. Gurudev Bapji always emphasized to all the sants and devotees that “The true founder and owner of this SMVS organization is God Swaminarayan.” The Guru ancestry of SMVS is commonly known as the ‘Golden Lineage of Karan Satsang’. Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Himself has established this grand tradition by initially declaring sadguru Gopalanand swami as His spiritual heir. Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s 6th spiritual heir in this grand tradition is Gurudev Bapji, who resided until 2019. Currently, the 7th spiritual heir of Karan Satsang and the Guru of the SMVS organization is HDH Swamishri. Let us get a brief introduction of each of this lineage members.
Establishment of Karan Satsang:
To propagate the belief of the Omnipresence of god, Abajibapashri cleared the distinction between Karya and Karan. Karya is a means to reach the goal. It includes; Diocese, Acharya, guru, sants, temples, and celebrations of festivals. Karan is the final destination, which is Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s Murti. In order to remain focused on the Karan, Abjibapashri established Karan Satsang to unite with Murti.
History
In 1969-70, Gurudev Bapji lived at the Ahmedabad temple. Gurudev Bapji would propagate the original principles of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, as explained by Bapashree, despite facing many hurdles. To propagate these principles to a larger audience of devotees and aspirants, Gurudev Bapji started conducting religious assemblies at the open ground of the Maleksaban stadium in the Bapunagar area of Ahmedabad.
