Page 241 - Basic Writings of Sriramchandra
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4.The Guru
Having in view our determined goal and the proper means to achieve it, our next lookout must be to find out the right type of person as our guide, who might successfully take us along the path of realization. In all cases (including those pertaining to worldly attain- ments), we stand in need of the help of a capable guide. It may, however, be possible that after acquiring some knowledge, we may proceed further by our self -effort. But even then we have to depend upon the experience of the teachers of the past contained in their books and writings. In spirituality the case is otherwise. The need of a Guru or Master grows greater and greater as we go on advancing and securing higher stages. Books are of no avail to us in this respect. They may help us to acquire superficial knowledge of things to enable us to deliver eloquent discourses on spiritual topics and to win arguments, but practical approach in spirituality through them alone is impossible. Yogic practices and Sadhanas based on knowledge acquired through books are mostly misleading and even harmful to our spiritual advancement. It is only the helping support of a capable guide that can take us on up to our destination. It is said of Maulana Rumi, a celebrated
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