True discipleship opens the vision. It kindles the spiritual fire. It awakens the dormant faculties. It is most necessary in one's journey along the spiritual path. Guru and disciple become one. The Guru blesses, guides, and inspires the disciple. He transmits his spiritual power to him. He transforms and spiritualizes him.
Who is Qualified to approach the GURU?
To approach a Guru, you must be a proper Adhikari (qualified person). Correct understanding, non-attachment to worldly objects, serenity of mind, restraint of the senses, absence of base passions, faith in the Guru, and devotion to God are the necessary equipment with which the aspirant has to approach the Guru.
The Guru will impart spiritual instructions only to that aspirant who thirsts for liberation, who duly obeys the injunctions of the Shastras, who has subdued his passions and senses, who has a calm mind, and who possesses virtuous qualities like mercy, cosmic love, patience, humility, endurance, forbearance, etc. Initiation into the mysteries of Brahman will fructify only when the disciple's mind becomes desire less, and will produce Jnana in it.
GURU-SEVA:
Aspirants should direct their whole attention in the beginning towards the removal of selfishness by protracted service to the Guru. Serve your Guru with divine Bhava(feeling). The cancer of individuality will be dissolved.
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