________________
17
Ans.
Even the
(3) They observe vows of restraining from
sinful activities. (4) They inspire others on the path of
salvation. (5) They have a truthful and masterly
knowledge of scriptures. Que. 4 : Can we say that the preceptor and the saint
are alike? : Even though they have some similarity, the status of a preceptor is much higher. By acquiring self-knowledge alone, one can become a saint, but for becoming a true preceptor the above- mentioned qualities
are required. Que. 5 : In absence of all the above virtues, can a
person be called 'Guru' ? Ans. : The qualities mentioned above represent a
great, enlightened master and a trendsetter whom we regard as the supreme Guru. If some of the above mentioned qualities are lacking, he may be regarded as a less
enlightened Guru. Que. 6: Is it possible to attain self-knowledge
without having precepts from a Guru ? Ans. : Self-knowledege cannot be attained without
obtaining precepts from a Guru. A special person with previous births' samsakars (impressions) may attain self-knowledge on his own but he also had acquired direct preachings from enlightened preceptors in his previous births.
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