The relationship between a Perfect Guru (Master) and a disciple is an inevitable outcome of the intrinsic condition in the life of an aspirant. From the spiritual point of view, it is the most important relationship that a person can enter. Love that constitutes the core of discipleship stands by itself among the different types of love that prevail in ordinary social relations.
The love that the aspirant has for the Master is really the response evoked by the greater love the Master has for the aspirant: it is to be placed above all other loves. The fundamental requisite for a true disciple is an unquestioning love for the Master. All other streams of love ultimately join this great river of love for the Master and disappear in it. To serve the master is to serve one’s own Self in every other self.
Force of Faith
The aspirant, before he desires the grace of the master, should deserve it. The supply of divine grace comes only when he is fit to receive it. Guru’s grace descends upon those who feel utterly humble and faithful to him. Faith is confidence and trust in Guru. Faith is the firm conviction of the truth of what is declared by the preceptor by way either of testimony or authority, without any other evidence of proof. The disciple who has faith in the guru argues not, thinks not, reasons not and cogitates not. He simply obeys, obeys and obeys.
A disciple without devotion to his guru is like a flower without fragrance, a well without water, a cow without milk or a body without life. A true aspirant rejoices in the practice of guru Bhakti Yoga. Without taking recourse to this yoga one cannot practise the other yogas. Whatever may be acquired by asceticism, renunciation, charity, auspicious acts or by other yogas, all these are speedily acquired by practising Guru-Bhakti yoga. It is the magic wand in the hands of the disciple to cross the ocean of Samsara.
Shraddha or faith is that power which sustains the aspirant on the path towards perfection. It supports him during tests and pitfalls and in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Therefore, always keep alive your Shraddha and Bhakti in your Gurudeva. Let your faith be crowned with success.
