Gurus and Chelas
Guru Om,
The Guru Chela relationship is an interesting topic. It’s impossible to even broach the topic without a quick overview of the field and ideas associated with it.
Today, in the English language, the usage of the word Guru has been corrupted to mean only “expert.” Thus one can be a financial Guru, a computer Guru, etc., ad nauseum. Actually, once upon a time, the word was only used to refer to a qualified “spiritual guide” who embodied the functional meaning of the word Guru. The Sanskrit word “Guru” reflects the concept of Dark to Light. More specifically translated, it invokes “one weighty or heavy with knowledge”.
The Guru is often symbolized by a flame, the light of a lamp. The light is intended to light up the scene and to turn the dark situation into one filled with brightness and clarity. This flame is not the situation; nor does it tell you where to proceed or which way to go. Thus, in the dark zones of the mind and the confusing labyrinth of the occult world, a reliable lamp can turn obscurity into brilliant illumination.
That is, if you develop the correct relationship and use it properly.
I, like many others did not consider myself to be the equal to my Guru. How could I? There was no evidence that this was true. This was not because of lack of confidence on my part or evidence of a submissive nature. No, it was because my experience was that my Guru was more spiritually advanced than I. If this were not the case, what motivation would there be in the Guru/Disciple relationship?
One can reasonably expect to Attain what one’s Guru has Attained, at least at some point. If one’s Guru has not Attained what one seeks, then the relationship may well be more on the level of everyday human interaction. In fact, if this is the case, how or why is it possible or desirable to view this individual as any type of Guru?
If someone claims to be a Guru, should we take them seriously? Perhaps better to take a serious look first and then slowly attempt to come to some rational consideration of what the Guru has to offer. Whether or not it is in line with what we are seeking and whether or not it is possible or desirable to develop some form of relationship.
Unfortunately, the Guru scene has become clogged with fakes and heretics of every description. One can only consider that this may be the case because too many people are gullible to some degree. This creates the environment for weeds to flourish and discrimination to dull.
I am aware of one heretical sect who proposes that the summit of attainment is reflected by “killing the Guru.” That is, after doing a few practices, the half baked disciple then tells Guruji to “bog off,” because they “got it.” Now in the case of dodgy guru types, this may not be a bad approach. At the same time, wouldn’t it be more dignified to realize that one has made a mistake and hooked up with a fake, and politely excuse oneself from their presence? Live and learn?
I believe this process, “Live and Learn” is more in line with the concept, Guru. Different people are seeking different things. One must have some idea of what one is seeking if one has any hope of finding it.
If one finds their Guru, I think it is likely that the karmic link in respect to deep relationship and the Spirit will only deepen over time. It is not likely for a sincere Disciple to douse the flame which has illumined the Path, no matter how bright their own.
Finally, one would do well to consider the Guru/Disciple relationship a part of a greater phenomena. It should not be confused or limited by its association with the identity of any one individual, sect, creed, teaching, initiation, title or charter.
A Guru is and can only be a Disciple of the Light.
Think on these things,
Kapilnath
