This glossary aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of various terms within the Subud organization and spiritual practice. Links to official websites are provided for further exploration and information gathering.
Applicant
An individual exploring Subud, attending introductory sessions or gatherings to learn about the organization’s principles and potentially engage in the Latihan. For more information on becoming an applicant, you can visit the official Subud website.
Bapak
A term of respect used within the Subud community to address Muhammad Subuh Sumohadiwidjojo, the founder of Subud. Bapak provided spiritual guidance and explanations that form the basis of Subud’s practices and principles.
Congress
Periodic gatherings at local, national, and international levels, where Subud members convene to discuss organizational matters, share experiences, and collectively shape the future direction of the organization.
Group
A local assembly of Subud members who regularly come together to practice the Latihan, hold meetings, and provide support and guidance to one another. Groups often play a pivotal role in fostering community connections and spiritual growth.
Helper
An experienced Subud member who assists newcomers and others in understanding and engaging with the latihan. Helpers provide guidance, support, and explanations to individuals experiencing the practice for the first time.
Jiwa
In Subud, Jiwa refers to the inner or spiritual essence within an individual, often associated with the soul or deeper self. The exploration and nurturing of the jiwa are central to the practice of the Latihan.
Kejiwaan
Deriving from the Indonesian word for spiritual, it is the spiritual dimension or inner aspect of Subud practice, emphasizing the personal spiritual journey and the cultivation of one’s inner being. Sometimes used as shorthand for a kejiwaan event — a meeting intended for members to share in the Latihan and testing in order to deepen their practice.
Latihan
The fundamental spiritual practice of Subud, involving surrendering oneself to the divine and allowing spontaneous receiving to manifest without deliberate control or preconceived notions.
Opening
The first experience of the Latihan. The opening marks the beginning of an individual’s engagement with Subud and the experience of the spiritual exercise.
Quiet
A state of inner calmness or stillness sought before and after engaging in the Latihan. Being in a state of quiet allows individuals to be more receptive to the inner feelings.
Receiving
Spiritual experiences received during the Latihan, which may be in the form of movements of the body, vocal sounds, feelings, or conscious insights or guidance. Receiving often involves personal revelations or intuitive understanding that individuals may encounter during their practice.
SES (Subud Enterprise Services)
A support network within Subud providing guidance and assistance to members interested in starting or developing businesses aligned with Subud principles. To learn more about SES, you can visit their official website.
SICA (Subud International Cultural Association)
An organization within the Subud community that promotes and supports artistic, cultural, and creative endeavors. SICA encourages artistic expression and cultural exchange among Subud members. For further information, visit the SICA website.
SIHA (Subud International Health Association)
An organization focusing on health-related matters within the Subud community, offering resources, information, and support for members’ well-being.
Subud
An international spiritual movement and organization founded by Muhammad Subuh Sumohadiwidjojo in the 20th century. Subud emphasizes spiritual practice, personal development, and the exploration of the divine through the latihan.
Susila Budhi Dharma
The three guiding principles of Subud encompassing Susila (morality), Budhi (spiritual development), and Dharma (surrender to the divine). These principles form the core values of Subud’s teachings and practices.
Susila Dharma
The humanitarian arm of Subud engaged in charitable and social welfare projects, embodying the principle of caring for others and promoting social welfare. For further details, visit the Susila Dharma International website.
Testing
The practice within Subud of seeking guidance or clarity by asking questions or seeking insights through the receiving of the laithan. Testing does not take place during the latihan session but in a separate session. Testing involves submitting questions to the inner self or divine and receiving intuitive responses.
WSA (World Subud Association)
The global organization overseeing the coordination and administration of Subud at an international level, fostering unity and collaboration among Subud groups worldwide. To explore more about WSA, visit the official WSA website.