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Atma-Siddhi
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scriptures, is pure, and is adept at speech. There is no one like a living true teacher, without the teachings of whom soul knowledge is not born. Where association of a living true teacher is difficult, scriptures that engage in analytical study of soul serve the purpose of soul-liberation. Or else if the true teacher so advises, one should intently and impartially study scriptures without paying attention to particular school of thought they belong to. Soul attains liberation through control of delusion-born self-freedoms and these can be controlled quickly in association with a living true teacher. By following other means, the delusions are doubled. Right belief is entailed in forsaking delusion-born self-freedoms/obstinate views and living in accordance with the goal established by the true teacher. The mighty foes of pride, etc. do not get demolished through delusion-born self-freedoms, but are destroyed only with a slight effort by taking shelter of a true teacher. Those who follow the teachings of a true teacher have to show reference to him to attain perfect knowledge, even though the teacher himself may not yet have achieved perfection. Reverence to the true teacher is one of the root-causes of liberation, but few people know it. Association with an untrue teacher is damaging. Whatever one learns from an untrue teacher causes more delusion and sinks one in dangerous mundane existence. Upon reflection a liberation-seeking soul recognizes this fact. A soul absorbed in own whims takes this fact otherwise.
It is a common experience that one needs a guide, counselor, teacher, or guru in different realms to muddle through life. As a child, mother and father are needed to help one develop personal identity, gain good habits and behaviors, and learn the art of living. Teachers, role models, and professional guides are needed later for educational, livelihood, and progress purposes. Learning from others is a life-long process for all of us. Of all the guides, counselors, teachers, and gurus, greatest importance is accorded to the spiritual master referred to in this work as the noble true teacher. The true teacher helps one live properly, navigate the
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