Guest guest Posted October 2, 2004 Report Share Posted October 2, 2004 STUDY GROUP on SPIRITUAL INSTRUCTION Chapter 1 INSTRUCTION [upadesa] V4. Q. IF IT BE TRUE THAT THE GURU IS ONE'S OWN SELF (ATMAN), WHAT IS THE PRINCIPLE UNDERLYING THE DOCTRINE WHICH SAYS THAT, HOWEVER LEARNED A DISCIPLE MAY BE OR WHATEVER OCCULT POWERS HE MAY POSSESS, HE CANNOT ATTAIN SELF-REALIZATION (ATMA-SIDDHI ) WITHOUT THE GRACE OF THE GURU ? M. Although in absolute truth the state of the Guru is that of oneself it is very hard for the Self which has become the individual soul (jiva) through ignorance to realize its true state or nature without the grace of the Guru. All mental concepts are controlled by the mere presence of the real Guru. If he were to say to one who arrogantly claims that he has seen the further shore of the ocean of learning or one who claims arrogantly that he can perform deeds which are well-nigh impossible, "Yes, you learnt all that is to be learnt, but have you learnt (to know) yourself? And you who are capable of performing deeds which are almost impossible, have you seen yourself?", they will bow their heads (in shame) and remain silent. Thus it is evident that only by the grace of the Guru and by no other accomplishment is it possible to know oneself. ------ anu Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.