The Opening: your first experience of the spiritual practice
If you have read the page Our Spiritual Training, you will know that Subud centers around the practice we call the Latihan, a word that comes from Indonesia and simply means exercise or training. When someone joins Subud, their first experience of this Latihan is referred to as their opening. It is often a time of profound significance as it marks the start of a spiritual journey. A journey of developing a deeper connection to a higher power or divine presence.
What to expect in your opening
The opening is not merely a ceremony or ritual, it is a first experience of the Subud spiritual practice. It differs from the typical group Latihan session , however, in two key aspects. First, it’s focused on supporting the new member specifically. Second, it’s held at a time when the regular group isn’t around, involving only a small number of experienced members. These experienced participants, known as helpers are often familiar from prior meetings with new applicants.
Every opening is different. There is no telling what someone will receive in their opening. Some experience strong movements straight away while for others it’s much more subtle. The important thing to remember is that it is just the beginning of a process that will develop over time.
A Subud Opening: Step by Step
- Before your arrival, the helpers gather for a Latihan to prepare themselves to accompany you in your first Latihan.
- When you arrive at the venue, you are invited to join them in the space.
- Everyone sits in silence, allowing their thoughts to quieten.
- After about 15 minutes, a helper says a few words in dedication and announces “Begin”
- The helpers then engage in their own Latihan with sounds and movements, while you remain surrendered and attentive to your experiences.
- After half an hour, someone calls, “Finish.”
- Everyone sits quietly for another 15 minutes
- Congratulations and welcome. You are now a Subud member.
After your opening
After becoming a Subud member, you are considered as much a part of the community as any other member. There is no probationary period. You will be given a membership form to enter your details on the Subud Britain membership database and choose preferences of how Subud Britain may keep in touch with you; you can anticipate receiving your membership card by post.
You are welcome to attend any group Latihan sessions and connect with fellow members.
We encourage you to take a look at the page Life of a New Member to see the opportunities that await you.