Guru Purnima is the sacred Vedic holy day in which the guru is honored and celebrated. In this special livestream celebration of Guru Purnima, Sri Dharma Pravartaka Acharya speaks about the nature and importance of true gurus, and shares the life-stories and teachings of several important gurus in the lineage of the International Sanatana Dharma Society.
“Only one who has a Acharya can know the truth.” (Chandogya Upanisad 6.18.2)
“Just try to learn the truth by approaching a spiritual master. Inquire from him submissively and render service unto him. The self-realized soul can impart knowledge unto you because he has seen the truth.” (Bhagavad Gita, 4.34)
“He who has supreme faith in God and the same faith in his guru is a knower of Brahman, who reaches supreme beatitude. Such is the teaching of the Veda.” (Satyayaniya Upanishad, 40)
“Pleasing the guru by rendering personal service attentively for a long time, the aspirant shall always listen with great attention to his exposition of the truths of the Upanishads.” (Narada Parivrajaka Upanishad, 6.22)
“Worthy of adoration is the guru who leads one to Brahman, the spirit dwelling in all bodies.” (Niralamba Upanishad, 30)