________________
[ 99
Ch. IX-1 ]
preceptor can be compared with one who would like to break the mountain by his head, or, with one who would rouse the lion from his slumbers, or, with one who would give a stroke against a missile. (8). Who knows, perhaps a man (like Vasudeva) would even break a mountain by his head, or the infuriated lion would not devour, or the edge of the missile may not cut; never, of course, is there release obtainable after despising the preceptor. (9). When, however, the revered preceptor is displeased, by virtue of mental delusion resulting from insult, there is no hope of Release. Hence, a monk, who desires for unobstructed happiness, should find pleasure in being anxious to propitiate his preceptor. (10). Just as a Fire-worshipper would bow down to Fire served with various oblations and Vedic hymns, similarly, a monk, although possessed of infinite knowledge, should, nevertheless, wait upon his preceptor. (11). A monk should be respectful before one from whom he has learnt religious precepts; he should always honour him with folded hands by his head, body, speech, as well as mind. (12).
TRANSLATION
Sense of shame, compassion, self-restraint and celibacy-these are the causes leading to the purification of the soul (from Karma-dirt). A good pupil, bearing this in mind, consequently thinks" I shall ever worship those preceptors of mine who always instruct me for my good." (13). Just as the hot-rayed god viz. the Sun, in the morning illuminates the whole of the Bharata continent, similarly, the preceptor, by his intellect characterized by learning and character, shines like Indra among the gods. (14). Just as the moon, attended with moonlight and surrounded by constellations and stars, shines in the clear cloudless sky, similarly the head of the church shines among the monks. (15). The preceptors are the great reservoirs (of learning), pursuing Liberation, possessed of equanimity
