Miscellaneous - Religion   

Grace that enlightens

CHENNAI : In the spiritual progress of an aspirant, the guidance of a preceptor is indispensable. The Guru Sishya relationship that prevailed was responsible for the unique manner in which knowledge (scriptures, fine arts, architecture, literature or philosophy) has been handed down through generations.

The hymn Guru Gita found in Skanda Purana highlights Guru Bhakti and Guru Seva, the practice of which helps the disciple to cultivate humility, love and loyalty.

The Guru's grace is extolled as capable of enlightening a deserving disciple with attainment of the highest knowledge Brahama Jnana, said Sri S. Ganesa Sarma in a lecture.

The manner in which Satyakama (son of Jabala) attained enlightenment while serving Sage Gautama, illustrates the importance of faithful service to the preceptor. This lad had spoken the truth about his birth and had impressed the sage who initiated him into Brahmacharya to enable him to study the scriptures. The traditional system expected the disciple to pay for his learning in the form of service to the Guru.

During Satyakama's return to the sage's hermitage after remaining committed to the work entrusted to him (taking care of cows), a bull, the fire, a swan and a waterfowl had offered to teach him the sacred truth. The sage realised that there was no need to impart any further knowledge to this lad.

When Ekalavya learnt the nuances of archery from the statue of Dronacharya since the preceptor had refused to accept him as his disciple, the implication is that absolute humility, total dedication, hard work, quest for excellence and devotion to the master can help one to imbibe even the toughest knowledge.

Such was his Guru Bhakti that he unhesitatingly gave up his thumb that left him unable to use what he had learnt.

The extent of Bhakti the disciple shows towards the preceptor is the benchmark for acquiring knowledge through the Guru's grace, while he should also be prepared to strive to attain it.

One cannot hope to attain mastery with mere scholarship, effort, performance of penance, sacrifice, renunciation or worship of deities, if one lacks humility in his approach to learning.

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