Archival Glossary & Lexicon

A disciple or initiate of Osho. Neo-sannyasins took new names (often prefixed 'Ma' for women or 'Swami' for men) and traditionally wore orange/maroon clothing.

A gathering in the presence of a spiritual teacher. In Osho's communities, satsang typically involved silent sitting, music, and discourse.

A private or semi-private audience with Osho. During Pune ashram years, darshan sessions were intimate meetings where disciples received personal guidance.

A five-stage active meditation technique introduced by Osho in 1970, combining rapid breathing, cathartic movement, jumping with arms raised, sudden stillness, and celebratory dance.

A four-stage evening meditation involving shaking, dancing, sitting still, and lying down. One of Osho's most widely practiced techniques.

An intentional community organized around shared spiritual practice and communal living. Osho established communes in Pune and Oregon.

An incorporated city built by the Rajneesh movement on a 64,229-acre ranch in Wasco County, Oregon (1981–1985). Population peaked at approximately 7,000.

Osho's central concept: a synthesis of material enjoyment (Zorba, from Kazantzakis' novel) and spiritual awakening (the Buddha). Rejected the false choice between worldly success and spiritual depth.

Sanskrit title meaning 'The Blessed One' or 'God.' Used by Osho from 1971 to 1989 (as Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh) before adopting the name 'Osho.'

A necklace of 108 wooden beads with a locket containing Osho's photograph, worn by sannyasins as a symbol of initiation.

A form of group therapy used at the Pune ashram involving confrontational techniques aimed at breaking down emotional defenses. Controversial for lack of professional boundaries.

A legal plea in which a defendant does not admit guilt but acknowledges that sufficient evidence exists for a conviction. Osho entered an Alford plea to immigration fraud charges in 1985.