The Guru Shishya Parampara, an integral
part of Indian culture, has been the cornerstone of the transmission of
knowledge, values, and wisdom since ancient times. This tradition of mentorship
and spiritual guidance has produced exemplary figures, including Lord Ram and
Lord Krishna. The Guru Shishya relationship is the most pious relationship, and
through this bond, not only are individuals benefited, but it is also a boon to
humanity. In Bharat, we have an unparalleled history of Great Sadgurus and
their dedicated satshishyas (disciples) who have not only paved the path to
spiritual excellence but also enabled the overall development of society as a
whole.
Guru Shishya
Relationship: The Divine Lineage
In the world, there are many
relationships often chosen based on stars, blood, birth, or comfort. These are
usually short-lived and last only as long as the person's life. However, there
is one relationship that is eternal: the one between a Guru and His disciple.
This bond continues to protect the disciple even after death. The wisdom passed
from Guru to disciple ensures the disciple's well-being and guides him on the
path to spiritual excellence.
Revered Asaramji Bapu belongs to one of
the divine lineages of enlightened masters which starts from Lord Narayan. His
lineage represents not only the divine source of his knowledge but also shows
the tracks of Guru Shishya Parampara that have manifested to uplift the overall
well-being of humanity.
This lineage of enlightened masters
includes “Dadu Dayalji,” whose revolutionary ideas and literature brought a
revolution across the nation and gave worship a direction that elevated
society on the path to eternal
bliss. His 52 disciples gained self-realization, one of whom was Swami
Nischaldasji Maharaj, who wrote the renowned scripture ‘Vicharsagar’, which is
very popular for its vedic knowledge in simple words. The same lineage includes
Swami Leelashah Ji Maharaj, whose miracles are known worldwide. His power of
spirituality and services to humanity made him one of the most famous saints of
Sindh. Bapuji, a disciple of Sai Leelashah Ji, has been following this lineage,
spreading the knowledge of Sanatan Dharma, and serving humanity as a whole.
Here is a quick rundown of the divine
lineage:
- Narayan Bhagwan
- Bhagwan
Brahmaji
- Maharishi Vasishtha
- Maharishi
Shakti
- Maharishi
Parashar
- Bhagwan
Vedavyasji
- Shri Shukdev
Muniji
- Shri
Gaudapadacharyaji
- Shri
Govindapadacharyaji
- Shri Adi
Shankaracharyaji
- Shri
Totakacharyaji
- Shri
Raghavanand Swamiji
- Shri
Ramanand Swamiji
- Shri
Kabirdasji
- Sant Shri
Kamaaldasji
- Sant Shri
Dadu Dayalji
- Sant Shri
Banwari Das Ji Maharaj
- Sant Shri
Chabeel Das Ji Maharaj
- Sant Shri
Shyam Das Ji Maharaj
- Sant Shri
Narayandas Ji Maharaj
- Sant Shri
Har Bhagat Ji Maharaj
- Sant Shri
Alakh Das Ji Maharaj
- Sant Shri
Amar Das Ji Maharaj
- Sant Shri
Laxman Das Ji Maharaj
- Swami Shri
Nischaldasji Maharaj
- Swami Shri Keshavanandji Maharaj
- Swami Shri
Lilashahji Maharaj
- Sant Shri Asaramji Bapu
Guru Shishya Tradition
Keeps the flame of knowledge alive
Typically, the term "Guru" is
used synonymously with a teacher or someone who imparts knowledge. In this
sense, every mentor, teacher, or guide can be called a Guru. However, according
to Sanatan Dharma, Sadguru is the king of all the gurus . Sadguru is someone who can impart knowledge that helps a
person understand the ultimate truth of life and reach the pinnacle of
spiritual ecstasy. Asaramji Bapu mentions that, according to ancient
scriptures, the Sadguru is considered above the trinity of “Brahma, Vishnu, and
Mahesha (Shivji)” because He goes beyond them and helps His disciple experience
Parabrahma, the source of the trinity.
A Sadguru illuminates the path to
self-realization and inner peace, preserving and promoting the rich traditions
and values of Sanatan Sanskriti.
Guru and Shishya: A Bond
of Truth, Faith, and Affection
A Guru shares an affectionate bond with
his disciple, built on the foundation of the disciple's faith, the Guru's
kindness, the disciple's devotion, and the Guru's compassion. In this unique
bond, the disciple seeks the Guru's blessings to climb the ladder of success.
Adi Shankaracharya's spiritual guide, Bhagwadpada Govindapadacharyaji
, mentions:
Guru
Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwara,
Guru
Sakshat Parabrahma, Tasmay Shri Gurave Namah
Bapuji has explained this verse in his
discourses, noting that just as Lord Brahma created the universe, the Guru
instills good values, virtues, and knowledge in the disciples. Just as Lord
Vishnu is the preserver, the Guru nourishes spirituality and cultural values
within the disciple. Just as Lord Shiva is the destroyer, the Guru annihilates
diseases, sins, and weaknesses from the disciple's heart. The Guru is
Parabrahma, which means that the guru’s grace is everywhere and always after
mantra diksha (initiation), guiding him through
all aspects of life, preventing bad deeds, and appreciating good ones.
This relationship is not only divine but
also enchanting, making it special for every disciple.
Guru Shishya parampara :
Application to the Modern World
A life without a Guru is like a ship
without a rudder, drifting aimlessly in the vast ocean of existence. Just as a
lamp illuminates a house, the wisdom of the Guru illuminates the heart. This
relationship provides spiritual benefits and enables holistic development.
Guide for Life
Bapuji mentions that the Guru Shishya
relationship is like that of a SIM card and a satellite. No matter where the
SIM goes, the satellite connection can reach it and pave its path to glory. The
only difference is that the SIM has a validity limit and there may be a
connectivity issue but the Guru’s blessing and Guru Mantra have no expiry date
& connectivity problem and take care of the
disciple even after death.
Barricades Degradation
It is a proven fact that a person who
stays in contact with His Guru is less prone to degradation. He does not get
carried away by temptations, stays steadfast, and makes wise decisions, thereby
contributing to his growth.
Enhances Emotional and Mental Strength
Having a Guru in life enhances mental
stability, which helps in career, spirituality, handling family matters, and
even studies. Such people are less prone to depression, suicide, anxiety, and
anger issues.
Health and Spiritual Well-Being
A Guru is a guide for holistic
development, including spirituality and health. The Guru nourishes the disciple
with boundless knowledge, helping create harmony with nature. This not only
builds strong spiritual power but also promotes good health.
Revolution In World
Gurus like Asaramji Bapu are
revolutionary saints whose initiatives and guidance lead millions of disciples
on the path of cultural development. This, in turn, contributes to the
development of the nation and humanity. They uphold the principle 'Nar Sewa Hi
Narayan Sewa' (Serving Humans is Serving God) and significantly contribute to
the upliftment of humanity as a whole.
True Essence of Guru
Shishya Parampara
The Guru Shishya Parampara is indeed a
boon to humanity. It embodies the true essence of spiritual mentorship,
fostering a deep connection between the guru and the disciple. This
relationship is not merely educational but transformational, leading to the
disciple's overall development. It bridges the material and spiritual worlds,
offering a holistic approach to life. The Guru Shishya Parampara, as
exemplified by Sant Asharam Bapuji and his illustrious lineage, continues to be
a beacon of light in a world often shrouded in ignorance. It is a testament to
the enduring power of spiritual guidance and the profound impact of a guru on a
disciple's life. The teachings and practices of this tradition are vital for
achieving true happiness and fulfillment, making it an indispensable part of
Indian culture and Sanatan Sanskriti.
In the heart’s sacred
shrine, a lamp burns bright,
Guiding souls through
the darkest night.
With a guru’s wisdom,
our spirits soar,
Finding peace, we seek
no more.
Guru Purnima: A Day for Guru Or One’s
Inner Self
Guru Purnima is the day dedicated to
expressing gratitude to the Guru. It is a day to pledge our commitment to
spiritual excellence. On this day, disciples visit the Guru's place to refine
their inner selves. The Guru blesses the disciples, preparing them to progress
on their path of personal development.
Asaramji
Bapu’s message for Gurupurnima
Gurupurnima is about becoming a Guru.
Humility makes us small, but knowledge, renunciation, wisdom, and the desire to
attain God make us a Guru. A Guru is someone who is rich in supreme happiness,
abundant knowledge and united with the highest God. God did not create the
universe to make you a slave; God created the universe to make you a lover. You
belong to God, and God is yours. Don't crouch down and beg. Devo bhutva devam yajet: "Become a
god and worship the god.
On the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima
millions throng the 400+ ashrams of Asaramji
Bapu to express their deepest gratitude and
respect.
For more information: https://ashram.org/festivals/gurupoonam/