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Study the Dharma. Those who are capable of eradicating the roots of karmic actions, who are seekers of the perfect knowledge (Kevala Jnana), who are courageous, patient, and have conquered their senses, do so.
Commentary: The desire to listen to the teachings of the Guru, or the service to the Guru, is called Shushrusha. One who performs this service should serve the Guru. The Sutra-kar describes the two main qualities of the Guru: He is Su-prajna (possessing excellent wisdom), meaning he is knowledgeable about his own philosophical principles (Swa-samaya) and the principles of others (Para-samaya), and is a scholar of the scriptures (Geetarth). He is also Su-tapaswi (possessing excellent austerity), meaning he practices both external and internal austerities. A seeker of liberation (Paraloka-arthi) should serve such a knowledgeable and righteous Guru. As it is said:
"One becomes a partaker of knowledge, firm in vision and conduct. Those who are fortunate do not abandon the Guru's abode."
The Sutra-kar describes those who follow this path: They are "Veera" (heroes), meaning they are capable of destroying karmic actions, are tolerant of hardships, are patient, and are not disturbed by afflictions. They are "Dhira" (steadfast), meaning they are guided by wisdom and are on the path to liberation. They are "Aapt-prajna-anveshi" (seekers of perfect knowledge), meaning they are free from attachment and aversion and seek the perfect knowledge (Kevala Jnana) as taught by the omniscient. They are also seekers of self-knowledge (Aatma-prajna-anveshi), meaning they seek the knowledge of the self and the welfare of the self. They are "Dhritiman" (possessing fortitude), meaning they have a love for restraint and are able to bear the burden of the five great vows due to their fortitude. Their austerity leads them to a good path (Su-gati). As it is said:
"He who has fortitude, has austerity; he who has austerity, has a good path. Those who have fortitude, austerity is indeed difficult for them."
They are also "Jita-indriya" (those who have conquered their senses), meaning they have conquered their senses through the victory over attachment and aversion. Such disciples or Gurus who serve others are distinguished by these qualities.