Guru Shishya

This Jain text, titled "Guru Shishya" and authored by Dada Bhagwan, published by the Dada Bhagwan Foundation, delves into the profound nature of the guru-disciple relationship from a spiritual and practical perspective. The text, compiled by Dr. Niruben Amin, offers insights into the true meaning of a guru, the qualities of a sincere disciple, and the ultimate goal of spiritual enlightenment as expounded by Dada Bhagwan.

Key Themes and Concepts:

• The True Nature of a Guru: The text strongly emphasizes that a true guru is not one who seeks to expand their own power or fame. Instead, a guru embodies humility, considering themselves a disciple of the entire world and the smallest of beings. The "Guru" is considered to be the divine presence manifesting within, referred to as "Dada Bhagwan." This inner divine is the true guide, present in everyone but fully manifest in the enlightened being.
• The Akram Path (The Effortless Path): Dada Bhagwan introduced the "Akram Marg," a spiritual path that bypasses the usual step-by-step progression. It's described as a "lift-way" or "shortcut" to self-realization. This path emphasizes the instantaneous attainment of knowledge, mirroring the experience of Dada Bhagwan himself.
• Self-Identity (Who Am I?): The core of spiritual understanding lies in recognizing one's true self. The text distinguishes between the self ("I") which is absolute, real, and permanent (the soul or Atma), and the worldly possessions and identifications ("my") which are relative, temporary, and external (body, mind, possessions, relationships). True realization is knowing the "I" which is the Atma.
• The Nature of God and Creation: The text posits that God is not the creator of this world in the conventional sense. The world is seen as an eternal, self-operating phenomenon, governed by scientific circumstantial evidence rather than a divine architect. God resides within every living being, not in man-made creations.
• Causality and Agency: It is asserted that no one is an independent doer in this world; all are "Naimittik Kartas" (instrumental doers). Even simple tasks require numerous coincidences to occur. This understanding aims to dissolve the ego's illusion of being the doer.
• The Guru-Disciple Relationship Beyond External Rituals: The text criticizes the emphasis on outward rituals and the misconception of a guru as merely an external guide who bestows blessings. True gurus are those who awaken the inner divine, the "Param Guru." The relationship is about the disciple's internal realization and surrender to the inner Self, guided by the grace of the Gnani Purush (the enlightened being).
• The Importance of Humility and "I Know Nothing": The text highlights "Param Vinay" (ultimate humility) and the attitude of "I know nothing" as crucial qualities for spiritual progress. This stems from the understanding that true knowledge comes from the inner Self.
• The Nature of Knowledge and Spiritual Growth: Spiritual knowledge is not something to be merely acquired from an external source, but rather something to be realized within. The path is described as climbing the ladder of spiritual knowledge, leading to the ultimate state of Kevalgyan (omniscience).
• The Role of "Nimit" (Instrument): While the ultimate spiritual goal is self-realization, the text acknowledges the role of a "Nimit" (an instrument or catalyst) in facilitating this process. However, the focus remains on the disciple's internal receptivity and the intrinsic nature of the Atma.
• The "Akram" Approach to Guruship: The narrative illustrates Dada Bhagwan's perspective on guruship. He insisted on being a disciple of the world to attain knowledge. When asked to take a disciple, he playfully suggested taking Dr. Niruben Amin as a disciple, thereby revealing that the "Param Guru" is the "Sahaj Atma Swaroop" (the Self in its natural state), which is internal. The Gnani's vision of a guru-disciple relationship is about guiding the disciple towards their own inner Self, not about establishing an external hierarchy.
• The Essence of True Devotion: True devotion lies in living according to the teachings of the enlightened one, thereby realizing the Self. The emphasis is on inner transformation rather than external rituals or seeking favors from an external guru.
• The Ultimate Goal of Moksha (Liberation): The overarching aim is to attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This is achieved through self-knowledge and the realization of the pure, unchanging Self.
• Practical Advice on Choosing a Guru: The text provides extensive guidance on discerning a true guru, highlighting qualities like humility, unconditional love, detachment from worldly possessions, and the ability to guide one towards the Self. It cautions against those who are motivated by personal gain or who create divisions among followers. The true guru is one who helps one realize the "Dada Bhagwan" within.
• The Teachings of Dada Bhagwan: The text showcases Dada Bhagwan's direct, scientific, and practical approach to spirituality. His discourses simplify complex spiritual concepts, making them accessible to all. His teachings are rooted in the understanding of the Soul (Atma) and the elimination of ego.

In Summary:

"Guru Shishya" is a profound exposition on the guru-disciple relationship, moving beyond conventional notions of external authority. It points towards the "Dada Bhagwan" within as the ultimate Guru, and the Gnani Purush as the guide who helps one recognize this inner Guru. The book advocates for humility, self-inquiry, and the realization of the eternal Self as the path to liberation, emphasizing that the true spiritual journey is an internal one facilitated by the grace of the Gnani Purush. The text encourages readers to find their own inner Guru and to live in accordance with that inner truth, transcending all external dependencies and ego-driven pursuits.