A Guru, a Mentor & beyond

Maharshi Ved Vyas, the author of Great EPIC Mahabharat & 18 Purans is believed to have born on this day, full moon of Ashad Month as per Hindu calendar. He is also believed to be Avtar of God, who has also credited with the work of reorganising Vedas into four parts viz RigVed, UjurvaVed, Samved & ArthVed. He has been known as Ved Vyas for creation of four distinct Vedas for easy grasp by followers. (Should we call origin of Professions?) So this day is dedicated to honour our Gurus, treating them an “Ansh” (An extremely minute part) of Maharshi Ved Vyas.

           The definition of Guru is:

·        The syllables gu as 'darkness' and ru as 'destroyer', thus meaning "one who destroys/dispels darkness

·        Traditionally, a guru is a spiritual teacher who guides a student on the road to Enlightenment, or finding God.

·        Guru word has found its usage for people as expert say wizard (X is computer Guru).

           Traditional belief puts Guru Status even above God. It is believed that it is who may drive you towards ‘Mokhsa’ (liberation from cycle of life & death) in this life, despite all hurdles, troubles, sorrows & joys. Even it is believed that even if god curses, it is the Guru who may rescue you. On contrary a person who has been cursed by Guru even God  may not be able to help him.

     It made me think of versatility of a Guru and what all aspects or roles are encompassed in it. As I can think some of them are:

1.     A teacher

2.     A Mentor

3.     A Philosopher

4.      A Guide for life

5.     A torch bearer for life

Actually, A Guru can be a mentor (in the sense of a spiritual master) and most good ones are actively mentoring somebody at least. A true Guru will bring you to the Divine within yourself, thus seeing the divine in all life forms, once you realise the Divinity within all, you do not need a Guru as you become one.