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## The Proper Worship of Gurudev-Dvijayati
(439) A seeker of liberation should always strive to benefit others. A seeker should always actively engage in actions that benefit other beings in this world and the next, using their body, mind, and wealth to the best of their ability. Thus, a seeker is compassionate and devoted to the welfare of others.
**And**
"Guru, Devatas, Vipras, and Tapasvi Yatis who are rich in austerities, are all great souls who should be worshipped with a sincere heart." (151)
**Meaning:** Gurus, Devatas, Vipras, and Tapasvi Yatis who are rich in austerities - all these great souls are worthy of worship with a sincere heart.
**Discussion:** Gurus, Devatas, Vipras, and Tapasvi Yatis who are rich in austerities - all these great souls are worthy of worship with a sincere heart. Gurus include mothers, fathers, art teachers, their relatives - brothers, sisters, etc., as well as elders who teach Dharma, Devatas, and other teachings, those who are knowledgeable and elderly. These noble people are the category of Gurus who are worthy of worship. Their worship should be done in the following ways:
(1) Bow to them three times a day, and when the opportunity arises, bow to them with utmost devotion in your heart.
(2) When they arrive, greet them with respect, i.e., stand up and go to meet them, offer them a seat, and when they sit down, offer them water, etc. Behave with humility in their presence. Do not speak loudly in their presence. Do not listen to gossip about them.
(3) Offer them the best clothes, etc., to the best of your ability, and always serve them.
(4) Refrain from any actions that are harmful to them, and engage in actions that are beneficial to them. Do this with propriety, i.e., do not cause them any pain.
**Meaning:** These qualities - mothers, fathers, Devatas, Vipras, and Yatis who are rich in austerities - are all worthy of worship. They are great souls who should be worshipped with a sincere heart. This means that they should be worshipped with a devoted heart, with a heart that is obedient to their teachings.
"The abandonment of what is harmful to them, and the engagement in what is beneficial to them, is what is called propriety, and it is said that Dharma should not cause pain."
(See reference) Shri Yogabindu, Shwe 110-115.