Guru Purnima: Celebrating Gurus and Divine Wisdom

Introduction:

In the realm of spiritual enlightenment, there exists a sacred day known as Guru Purnima—a reverential celebration, an occasion to express gratitude to the guardians of enlightenment who guide us toward the light of wisdom. Our gurus, our teachers, not only impart wisdom but also ensure that the radiance of understanding reaches our souls, illuminating our journey through life.

But who exactly is a Guru? While we encounter countless teachers who bless us with knowledge, the role of a Guru carries immense responsibility. They are the ones who ensure their disciples can walk the path of righteousness, fulfilling their higher purpose. In a world where everyone seeks guidance to navigate life's complexities, it is essential to note that the Guru finds their disciples (shishyaas). Instead of tirelessly searching for a Guru, one should open their heart and mind, allowing the Guru to find them, for it is a divine connection that transcends time and space.

This article will not only be a dedication to the Gurus worldwide but will also be a self-reflection of the growth I have experienced with the guidance of my Gurus’ presence in my life.

Meaning of “Guru Purnima”:

If we split the term “Guru”, then ‘Gu’ means ‘darkness or ignorance’ and ‘Ru’ means ‘elimination or removal.’ Hence, this particular day is dedicated to those who remove darkness from our lives and lead us to paths of righteousness, i.e. our Gurus.

Overall, it is a day/ festival dedicated to celebrating or showering gratitude to our Gurus, Teachers who are torch bearers of knowledge, who not only impart gyaana but ensures that the light of wisdom reaches us.

It is a time to honor and acknowledge the significant role that Gurus play in guiding and inspiring their students. Every year, we commemorate this great festival of “Guru Purnima” on the full moon day, i.e. Purnima, of the Ashadha month as per the Hindu Calendar. According to the Gregorian Calendar, it occurs in the month of either July or August. This year, “Guru Purnima” is on the 21st July ‘24.

As per “Drik Panchang”, the “tithi” for “Guru Purnima” in the year ‘24 is as follows:

Guru Purnima on Sunday, 21st July ‘24

Purnima Tithi Begins - 05:59 PM on 20th July ‘24

Purnima Tithi Ends - 03:46 PM on 21st July ‘24

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Importance of “Guru Purnima” as per Different Religions:

This occasion of “Guru Purnima”, dedicated to the Gurus/ teachers, is also known as “Vyasa Purnima.” It is believed that the great sage and Guru Veda Vyasa was born on the same day as “Guru Purnima”, hence we celebrate this occasion as his birth anniversary. Veda Vyasa was the author of the great Hindu epic, Mahabharata. He has also divided the Vedas (recited by Lord Brahma) into four and has written the ‘Puranas’ (also called the ‘fifth Veda’). Rishi Veda Vyasa is revered as one of the ‘Maha Gurus’ in Hindu Dharma. Many people believe that on “Guru Purnima”, the prayers reach the Maha Guru directly and he blesses his Shishyas with bliss and removes darkness from their lives.

This day is important from the perspective of Buddhism as well. After migrating from Bodhgaya to Sarnath, Gautam Buddha delivered his first sermon to his first five disciples on the same day of “Guru Purnima.”

According to Jainism, “Guru Purnima” was the day when Lord Mahavira became the ‘Guru’ to his first disciple Gautam Swami. Hence, on this day, the followers of Jainism worship Lord Mahavira.

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Astrological Significance of “Guru Purnima”:

Guru Purnima holds profound spiritual significance in Vedic tradition, celebrated as a day to honor and revere the Gurus who impart wisdom and guide individuals on the path of? enlightenment. According to Vedic Astrology, Jupiter (Brihaspati) is revered as the Guru – the divine teacher and signifier of higher education, spiritual wisdom, and ideals. This celestial connection underscores the day’s importance, as worshiping Lord Brihaspati (Jupiter) on Guru Purnima is believed to enhance one’s spiritual growth and understanding. By aligning oneself with the benevolent energies of Jupiter, devotees seek to cultivate knowledge, wisdom, and moral integrity, embodying the virtues taught by their Gurus.

The celebration of Guru Purnima is not merely a ritualistic observance but a deeply spiritual practice that reaffirms the Guru’s pivotal role in an individual’s spiritual journey. This day is an opportunity for devotees to express their gratitude and devotion to their Gurus, who illuminate their paths with knowledge and spiritual insight. It is also a time for introspection and self-improvement, as individuals reflect on the teachings of their Gurus and strive to embody those lessons in their daily lives. By participating in this sacred observance, one acknowledges the Guru’s influence in dispelling ignorance and leading the disciple toward spiritual awakening and enlightenment.

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Rituals and Observances of “Guru Purnima”:

?On this festival, people follow the following traditional rituals:

• The most important ritual of “Guru Purnima” is to pay respect and reverence to one’s Gurus who have been the ‘guiding light’ in one’s life.
• At many places, people worship Rishi Veda Vyasa as ‘Maha Guru.’ The devotees offer flowers and sweets as ‘prasad’ to Maha Guru and then distribute Charnamrit.?
• Many people also recite the holy text of Guru Gita on this day.
• On this day, the devotees also worship Guru Dattatreya, Guru’s Guru.
• ?‘Pada Puja’, i.e. worshipping the divine feet of Gurus is also a very important practice on “Guru Purnima.”
• Many people are involved in giving spiritual lessons on this day to others and guide them on the right paths. This is called ‘Diksha.’
• The followers of Buddhism observe the eight teachings of Buddha on this day. This practice is known as ‘Uposatha.’
• Buddhist monks start their meditations from this day.

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Guru-Shishya Relationship in Indian Cultures:

There’s a very beautiful couplet (Doha) by Saint Kabir that says:

“Guru gōbinda dō’u kha?ē kākē lāgūm? pāya…

…balihārī guru āpanē gōbinda diyō batāya.”

It literally means that ‘if I have both God and my Guru in front of me, I would bow down to my Guru first as he was the one.......

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