Initiator and Guru
By Srila B B Tirtha Maharaj
The words ‘initiation’ and ‘diksha’ are not synonymous. The Oxford English Dictionary says, ‘initiation’ means admitting or introducing somebody to membership of a group, often by means of a special ceremony. The definition of ‘diksha’ is given in Hari-bhakti-viläsa: “the procedure by which self-effulgent (divine) knowledge that eradicates the cause of all sins”.
Divine knowledge comes through revelation. One who has realised the Supreme can impart that self-effulgent knowledge to others, provided the aspirant submits to the Supreme and to his guru. The initiatorguru must have two qualifications, says the Mundaka Sruti: he must be well-versed in the scriptures, and he must have realisation of Divinity.
Credit: timesofindia.speakingtree.in