What is Subud?
A Brief Explanation

The Subud experience is a spontaneous inner receiving which is initiated and moved by direct contact with the Power of God, which resides within each of us. Each person receives and experiences this in accordance with his or her own unique character, strength, and capacity.

Subud is based on experience. It contains no teaching or theory, no technique to be mastered, no dogma or ritual. Subud members follow only their own inner guidance and experience which is received and moved from within, can be clearly felt, and is willed for each of us by God.

Subud is not a new religion nor is Subud intended to replace one’s religion or to change one’s religious affiliation. There is nothing in Subud that contradicts that which is found in the great religions and Subud members are strongly encouraged to continue to practice the religion of their choice. People from all religions, including clergy members, are also Subud members and many report that their Subud experience has helped to deepen their understanding of and commitment to their religious practice.

Subud has no charismatic leader or hierarchical authority structure. Members are encouraged to think critically, to trust only their own experience, to use their hearts and minds fully and to be actively engaged in the life of their families, work and communities. Subud activities are funded by strictly voluntary contributions and there is no compulsion to contribute.

Subud should not be confused with New Age psychological self-help techniques. In Subud our only intention is simply to surrender everything that is within us and to submit ourselves completely to the Power of God and then wait patiently to receive whatever may be His Will for us.

Although Subud originated in Indonesia in 1932, it is not an "Eastern" spiritual movement. It has since spread to more than 80 countries around the world and people of all religious, national, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds come together in Subud to worship God in complete harmony and without reference to their origins. When we stand before God we are all the same.

Subud does not advertise or proselytize or make efforts to seek out new members. However, the Subud contact is a gift and Grace from God that is meant for all of mankind, and it is freely shared with all who sincerely desire it. All that is required to receive this contact, is a genuine willingness to surrender oneself to the Will of God with true patience, acceptance, sincerity and courage.

Membership in Subud is open to anyone over 18 years of age. People interested in joining Subud are asked to wait for a period of approximately three months, after becoming applicants, before receiving the Subud contact for the first time. During this waiting period they are encouraged to attend applicants meetings regularly, to ask questions and to get to know other members. The decision to embark on the spiritual path which is Subud should not be taken lightly. To avoid disappointment or confusion later, it is important to have a clear understanding of what Subud is and what it is not before making a final decision to join.