Commitment—the
Importance of Discipleship
While a widespread search might be necessary for some seekers
in the beginning, a single-pointed determination is needed
to reach the goal of Self-realisation. Some spiritual seekers
are soon led to their masters and path; others require a
much longer time to sort things out. Each seeker has his
own past, his own karma. The seeds of spiritual yearning
sprout in their own time.
Yogacharya Dharmadas
It is said, "When the disciple is ready, the master
appears." Great masters have a magnetism that attracts
many people. But only some of them are able to receive the
fullness of their master's teachings and grace.
Here we need to distinguish followers from disciples. The
followers of a master are pleased to be with him and feel
uplifted by his presence and words. To them the master gives
a message of encouragement and inspiration. The disciples
of a master, however, are those willing to follow not only
the master's physical presence but also—more importantly—his
metaphysical advice. They accept his discipline and undertake
the rigorous work to reach perfection.
A story is told about a Chinese emperor whose minister
brought back reports from the northlands of an enormous
monastery where thousands of monks lived. They had created
a place of peace and incomparable beauty. The emperor decided
to visit, and when he met the abbot he commented, "What
a beautiful place you have created here. How many disciples
are there?" The abbot responded, "Residents are
in the thousands; disciples, perhaps one or two".
It is the commitment and receptivity of the disciple that
attracts the guru's grace and is necessary in order to receive
initiation into the higher practices on the path of Kriya
Yoga. To help you deepen your understanding of this concept,
one of our courses (Level III) is dedicated to discipleship.
Programmes are offered at Ananda Sangha, and you are also
welcome to come at any time to talk with one of the acharyas.
A catalogue of books and talks on discipleship as well
as meditation and Kriya Yoga resources is available at our
Web site, www.anandaindia.org
.
Related:
What is Kriya Yoga?
Steps Towards Kriya Initiation
Your Questions on Kriya Yoga
Answered
The Kriya Yoga Masters
What Kriyabans Say
Quotes on Kriya from Paramhansa
Yogananda
