Guru is God, say the scriptures. In Vedic tradition, the Guru is looked upon as one no less than a God. The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Current English defines it as “Hindu spiritual teacher or head of religious sect; influential teacher; revered mentor”.

Basically the guru is a spiritual teacher leading the disciple on the path of “god-realization”. The guru is considered to be a respected person with saintly qualities who enlightens the mind of his disciple and an educator from whom one receives the initiatory mantra.The teacher, along with the mother and the father are considered to be the most venerable gurus of an individual.

The Guru is God Himself manifesting in a personal form to guide the aspirant. Grace of God takes the form of the Guru. To see the Guru is to see God. The Guru is united with God. He inspires devotion in others. His presence purifies all. The Sadguru is Brahman Himself. He is an ocean of bliss, knowledge and compassion. He is the fountain of joy. He removes all your troubles, sorrows, and obstacles. He shows you the right divine path.

Guru is God. A word from him is a word from God. He need not teach anything. Even his presence or company is elevating, inspiring, and stirring, His very company is self-illumination. Living in his company is spiritual education. The Granth-Saheb (the holy book of the Sikhs) extols the greatness of the Guru. Man can learn only from man, and hence God teaches through a human body. In your Guru, you have your human ideal of perfection. He is the pattern into which you wish to mould yourself. Your mind will readly be convinced that such a great soul, is fit to be worshipped and revered.

For a beginner on the spiritual path, a Guru is necessary. To light a candle, you need a burning candle. An illumined soul alone can enlighten another soul. The sadhak who is under the guidance of a Master or Guru is safe from being led astray. Satsang or association with the Guru is your shelter from all temptations and unfavourable forces of the material world.

Lord Krishna’s guru was Sandeepani, Lord Rama’s Vasishtha, Brihaspati was the guru of the Gods. Many a time, would-be disciples have had visions, in which they were told where they could find their guru.

From one doctor, you get a prescription. From two doctors, you get consultation. From three doctors, you get your own cremation. Thus, it is prudent on the spiritual path, to stick with one Guru and have faith that he will monitor and guide your progress.

–Seema Mishra