[Riprincattiva]

When one has realized the greatness of what the Buddha taught maybe she/he is eager to join joyfully to a Sangha and with a teacher. This can lead us sometimes into an unhealthy relationship with a "guru" or a teacher. It is important to have in mind this pitfalls that are along the path mostly when we are beginners. We can develop dependency and attachment and transform it into a hiding spot that will prevent us form spiritual matureness mostly when "the teacher" is attached and develops some sort of unwholesome identification with problems and progress of her/his learner. The best way to honour a teacher is just with the diligent practice of the Dhamma.

Verse 205 of the Dhamapada touches this delicate issue and is illustrated by the story of Venerable Tissa:

"He has savoured the taste of solitude. He has also experienced the flavour of tranquility arising from the absence of blemishes. Enjoying the sweetness of the joy of realistic awareness he is unaffected by blemishes and is bereft of evil."

Comments are wellcome...

[layedgebiamma]

That the "Free are the Purest" is surely a tautology. We could not be free if we were not pure.
So who here's free?

[Tauntenue]

So who here's free?

At least not me yet Frank dear,

I have a book where I found this Verse appropriate for what time to time is discussed about the meaning of having a teacher. It is not the first time this topic has been set to be discussed. Opinions are form those who do not have any sort of teacher to those that have a vary near relationship with a Dhamma teacher... What is interesting is that in words of historical Buddha the best way to honour a teacher is through the practice of the Dhamma and nothing else. This is illustrated by the attitude of Ven. Tissa.

So I tried to find an English version on internet so to give the link and I found that one... and yes, the title sounds very tautological...

[enasseneiff]

My teacher encourages my practice of the dharma within the tradition - and not dependancy on him.

I concur with that experience. Actually, most of the questions I ask are put back on me, in some way or another. The effect is that I am much more likely to think about things myself than ask questions. Kinda funny, cause he likes to laugh at me when I ask questions that feel serious to me.