The word ‘Guru’ is used in many different contexts today. We hear the word Guru being attached to many words such as “computer Guru” or “finance Guru” which generally suggests that a person is master of his or her profession.

In truth, the word ‘Guru’ is derived from the Sanskrit language and has a deep spiritual meaning.

Let’s analyse the term Guru by understanding the two syllables “Gu” and “Ru”:

The Guru is part of God and is the One Who, with His radiance, dispels the darkness of ignorance in His disciple.

The unseen aspect - is also known as 'The Guru Principle'. The Guru is the Teaching Principle of God. This is the aspect of God that performs the function of guiding us to grow spiritually.

Imagine a time when you were at a crossroad in your life or undergoing a crisis where you desperately needed some sound advice. Then almost magically, in the nick of time, you stumble upon a quote or a book or a stranger who helps you out with uncanny insight that immediately lifts the veil of gloom and suddenly everything seems clearer. At that time, moved by immense gratitude, you feel like kissing the book or hugging the perplexed stranger, profusely thanking them! This is just one example of the many ways the unseen aspect of the Guru influences and guides us. In reality it is He Whom we should be thanking.

The seen aspect - is the physical form of ‘The Guru Principle’. While the Guru Principle is not a person, throughout the ages, this aspect of God has shone through certain individuals who have walked the earth. These enlightened souls act as a beacon of spiritual knowledge and guide mankind to higher levels of spiritual growth. Some examples of these enlightened souls are Saint Francis of Assisi, Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Swami Paramhansa Yogananda and Swami Vivekananda.