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The role of a preceptor

CHENNAI: Spiritual knowledge is infinite and subtle and there are many kinds of preceptors in the tradition who adopt unique methods to inspire and cause awakening in the disciples. Some preceptors who are realised souls may not be eloquent in expression; but yet are capable of imparting wisdom through their sacred silence or presence or way of life. Only those disciples who are on the higher spiritual plane can learn from such preceptors. Some other preceptors may be scholars who can expound philosophical ideas and the nuances of dharma with clarity. But God realisation is not possible with mere theoretical discussions.

Adi Sankara’s role as a preceptor shines because he was both a Jnani and a scholar well versed in the scriptures and the Sastras, said Sri B. Damodhara Dikshitar in a lecture. Believed to be an incarnation of Siva, Adi Sankara has created a tremendous influence in the religious and philosophical thought by establishing the Vedic Dharma that had fallen into the hands of non believers and other religious sects who even misinterpreted and distorted it.

Tradition venerates the Supreme Being as the primordial Guru with the lineage of preceptors drawing inspiration from the Lord to impart the essence of spiritual knowledge. The path of such preceptors is like the highway that can be taken without any fear. The value of guru-sishya relationship gains tremendous significance.

A preceptor is shown to be selfless and has the welfare of the disciples in mind at all times. When Sage Viswamitra sought Dasaratha with a request to send Lord Rama and Lakshmana to the forest, Dasaratha hesitated initially. It was left to Sage Vasishta to divine the selflessness of Vishwamitra (who had the interests of the princes and the king in mind primarily rather than his own needs) and persuade the king to accede to the sage’s request.

In the effort to attain the goal, every individual aspirant moves at one’s own pace. While there is no definite period or time frame indicated for the ultimate achievement, it is made clear that attaining the goal depends on one’s sincere effort and determination to renounce worldly attractions (vairagya).

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