An authentic Teacher has done more than just acquiring all the necessary knowledge by integrating its different aspects through its personal experience. An authentic Teacher is also filled with wisdom and a boundless compassion, always keeping a very humble and simple attitude.
Such a Teacher is the holder of an authentic lineage dating back to the Buddha himself.
This spiritual friend stands as a true protection against negative experiences and a reliable guide on the positive way, for one’s and other’s sakes. Once he has been found and it’s authenticity confirmed, he remains a guide to be fully trusted.
Trust towards the Teacher is most important as it makes experiences on the Path much simpler and more direct.
Excerpt from:
Bodhicitta L’esprit d’Éveil
The need to follow a spiritual master
Parents, friends and ordinary teachers cannot help you achieve liberation, for they are not free from samsara themselves. To attain enlightenment you must have the guidance of an authentic spiritual master. Without a spiritual master you will get nowhere, like a passenger in an airplane without a pilot.
So do not overestimate your capacities. Having sought and found a qualified master endowed with wisdom, compassion and ability, follow him with confidence, receive his instructions and practice them with diligence.
Excerpt from:
The Excellent Path to Enlightenment
The Excellent Path to Enlightenment
