Definition of a Guru
Guru is a Sanskrit word that translates to meaning ‘teacher’ or ‘mentor’, and is an important figure in Hinduism. A Guru is someone who has a deep knowledge of Hinduism and is recognised due to their spiritual authority and unbound wisdom. In Hinduism, students receive traditional knowledge on scriptures and deities from their Guru, and their teachings are often followed as a guide to reduce suffering, obtain spiritual power, and eventually reach ‘moksha’ – a state of liberation which lays the foundations in a human’s Dharma. The fullest of this knowledge can only be attained and imparted through a Guru-Disciple relationship where an ultimate goal of Brahman (Ultimate Reality) is strived for. In this relationship, it is the Guru that has realised Brahman who is respected for guiding a disciple to do the same.
The Guru-Disciple relationship follows a traditional Vedic culture, a direct mentor-mentee connection. The Guru, who is seen as a compassionate observer and a spiritual friend, guides the Disciple in their journey to self-realization, where their soul is illuminated by the guru’s light ultimately leading to liberation and the highest peak of human spiritual growth. A guru is seen to be in a form of a god, a transcendental form of a being chosen to be connected with, and can be treated like a sacrificial object as a token of respect.
Role of a Guru
Gurus have served an integral role in Hindu culture for centuries, playing an important role in the religion’s evolution. They are often considered to be the source of spiritual guidance and are responsible for providing fundamental knowledge regarding the Hindu way of life. Furthermore, it is believed that a Guru can bring inner power and peace to their disciples as well as alleviating any mental or emotional stress they may be facing.
Gurus hold the position of helping their disciples become their best self by teaching them to be virtuous and the benefits that come with being a humble and kind individual. They extend the knowledge of meaningful things in life and act as a beacon of hope and truth.
The guidance of a Guru focuses on allowing the power of faith to gradually shine through and to grow holistically as an individual. The guru is there to instil trust and belief in the disciple by providing remarks such as ‘stop running and start searching wherever you are and everything you need has already been given to you.’
One of the main roles of a Guru is to point knowledge and insight for their disciples. They use stories which hold moral learning and words of wisdom. This allows the Disciple to focus inward, process and understand the meanings of the story.
Significance of a Guru
Gurus are a source of inspiration for their disciples, and for many Hindus, a Guru is a superlative example of how to live a life of faith and joy. By providing their knowledge and guidance, the Guru challenges their Disciple to keep up with their journey of spiritual understanding, allowing their Disciple to reach the supreme peace of Brahman.
Guru’s are capable of providing unconditional love, assistance, guidance and insight. This assistance is central to Hinduism as most of its scriptures and teachings revolve around these core concepts. Hence, a Guru provides an essential function by procuring an opportunity of growth, betterment and achieving moksha.
A Guru can also be seen as mentor or role model. To many, being connected with a Guru means being part of the spiritual family and going on a journey beyond the limited human experiences.
Qualifications of a Guru
In determining who is a fitting Guru, their level of initiation is the primary factor taken into account. In Hinduism, initiation is the process in which Gurus and Disciples reach a mutual agreement to bind their journey in search of the highest understanding of Brahman.
Qualifications such as teachers or spiritual masters also matter deeply. As there is no universal or designated set of standards that are etched in Hinduism, there are numerous teachings and practices concerning alternative forms of spiritual enlightenment. In this regard, various schools exist between which the qualifications of a Guru may vary.
It is believed that a Guru requires two main qualities which are the merits of a spiritual teacher. This includes discipleship, which refers to one’s connection and relationship to God, and service which encompasses providing valuable guidance and knowledge to one’s disciples.
The Guru focuses on liberating their Disciple from any notion of suffering by uncovering any dormant power or giving them insight about their relationship with existence. A Disciple has to be in perfect harmony with the laws of existence and has to be willing to work hard to unlock their deepest potential in order to be called a Guru.
Examples of Gurus
There have been many Gurus throughout the centuries that remain as prominent figures in Hinduism. Examples of great Gurus include Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj, Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj and Sri Aurobindo. All of these Gurus have made significant contributions to Hinduism and have left behind massive legacies that are still revered today.
Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj, born in 1856, was the founder of the Akkalkot Swami Foundation and was considered an incarnation of the God Dattatreya. He is admired for his exceptional powers but mainly for motivating thousands of people to fight for their spiritual purpose. He is recognised as a great source of inspiration for many Hindus, and many refer to him as a living God.
Equally, Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj was an enlightened philosopher and spiritual master who lived from 1897-1981. He was from a humble background and known to speak frankly and show the world the impermanence of the universe. His teachings have moved thousands of people to consider life and the divine power within each of us.
Further, Sri Aurobindo was born in India in 1872 and is known as a distinguished scholar and the author of many books. He reinterpreted ancient Hindu scriptures and was a pivotal figure in the development of integrative yoga. His writings provide deep insight into the subtle workings of the universe.
Receiving Knowledge from a Guru
The path of finding a Guru by which to attain spiritual knowledge has been a popular concept in Hinduism, as without a Guru, it is difficult to uncover one’s dormant potential or develop a deep connection to the divine and the universe. It is believed that there are three ways in which one can receive knowledge from their Guru. The first of these is through direct verbal communication. This may come in the form of conversations, stories, or the sharing of wisdom.
The second is through observation and experience. This often refers to the process in which the Guru provides their Disciple with an example to follow in terms of mindfulness, awareness, and humility.
The third is through initiation. This is the most valued and respected form of knowledge as it serves as a unifying experience that allows for a flow of energy between the Guru and disciple.
Having Faith in a Guru
Guru is considered a sacred and respected figure in Hinduism, and having faith in one’s Guru is considered a basic prerequisite for active discipleship. It is believed that having faith in a Guru is a sign of utmost respect and unconditional loyalty towards them. It is through this faith that the Guru reaches the heart of their Disciple and shines light upon them.
By having faith in a Guru, a Disciple can develop unconditional trust and belief in them as they make progress on their spiritual journey. In this way, the Disciple has an understanding that the Guru’s intentions are genuine and they have the Disciple’s best interests in mind.
A Disciple’s faith in their Guru is proven by the willingness to accept their teachings, follow their instructions, and abide by the Guru’s words. Ultimately, trust and faith are the essence of the Guru-Disciple relationship and are essential to enter the highest spiritual state.
Sympathetic Trust in a Guru
Sympathetic trust is a concept that is highly emphasized in Hinduism, as it allows a Disciple to make their own decisions with the support and guidance of their Guru in order to make sustainable progress. This is seen as an integral part of the Disciple’s spiritual journey as the Disciple learns to accept and trust the instruction of their Guru.
When a Disciple is encouraged to explore and unlock their potential, deeper spiritual awareness and understanding develops, which consequently leads to greater happiness and peace. A Disciple gradually begins to trust and accept the essence of their Guru, as it is believed they have all the answers that are given through devoted practice and strict discipline.
Sympathetic trust is believed to be the highest form of Guru-Disciple relationship, and it allows a Disciple to have insights that comes from within and recognises the essential values of spirituality.
Practicing the Teachings of a Guru
Gurus provide their Disciples with a series of teachings and practices that are intended to help them on their journey to spiritual understanding and enlightenment. Therefore, it is important for Disciples to make a consistent effort to practice the teachings in order to gain maximum benefit from these teachings.
The teachings of a Guru are not only limited to scriptures and specific religious practices, but also extends to everyday life and behaviour. A Disciple can benefit from the advice of their Guru if they make an effort to follow their instructions and practice what is being taught to them.
Otherwise, their spiritual development may stagnate and they will not be able to access the true potential of spiritual growth that should come with having a Guru.
Guru-Disciple Relationship
Having a Guru is often seen as being an essential part of one’s spiritual journey, but it is important to note that Guru-Disciple relationship should not be taken lightly. The Disciple-Guru relationship cannot be established at will and the foundations of it will take time to build.
The Guru-Disciple relationship can only be built when both the Guru and Disciple make an effort to bring in and combine their respective strengths as one body. The Guru has to make sure to bring knowledge and understanding of spiritual matters to the Disciple and the Disciple has to strive to learn and search for liberation, being mindful of their journey at all times.
As the relationship progresses, the Disciple has to make sure to be respectful, seek approval and guidance from the Guru and try to understand the teachings in practice. Once a Disciple has done so, they will find that they are truly blessed to have a Guru and have an endless capacity to learn.
