Devotion to Guru

Sri Siddharameshwar Maharaj

The greatness of the "True Master", the Sadguru, is beyond measure. One whose faith in the Guru diminishes after he attains Knowledge, does not get the joy of the "Highest Bliss". The diminishing of the faith in the Guru is the cause of failure. One should not even drink water without first offering it to the Guru. All actions and things to be enjoyed should be offered to the Guru and only then, whatever is left over should be taken. The word "Are" in the great statement "You Are That" (Tat Tvam Asi), is only possible to be achieved by the Grace of the Guru. The service to the Sadguru is the highest. That devotion allows you to reach the state that has no equal in the world. At the time of reaching "That", there is a change in the intellect, and an illusory thought enters the mind that asks, "What importance has the Guru?" Never abandon your devotion to the Guru. It is only by having deep Faith in the Guru that you are going to achieve realization and see everything happening according to your wish. You must actually feel, and experience the meaning of the word "Are" (asi). Recognize yourself as Brahman, and arrive at final contentment. Self-Knowledge is felt to be difficult to attain only because devotion is lacking. Devotion to Brahman with quality and form (saguna devotion) in the shape of the Guru, is very difficult. The devotee suffers loss even if there is the slightest laziness in his efforts. Laziness must not be allowed in relation to one's devotion.