गुरू ब्रह्मा गुरू विष्णु, गुरु देवो महेश्वरा
गुरु साक्षात परब्रह्म, तस्मै श्री गुरुवे नमः
Importance of Guru Purnima in Different Religions
Hinduism: In Hinduism, Guru Purnima is celebrated in honor of Vyasa, the sage who is credited with composing the Mahabharata and classifying the Vedas. Devotees express gratitude towards their gurus for imparting knowledge and guiding them on the path of righteousness. Rituals include offering flowers, fruits, and sweets to gurus and seeking their blessings. Ved Vyas was born on the Purnima of Ashadha. In hinduism a Guru is known as the one who removes ignorance or dark from the life of their students.
Buddhism: For Buddhists, Guru Purnima commemorates the day when Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon at Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh. This event, known as Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, marks the establishment of the Sangha (community of monks) and the dissemination of the Dharma (teachings of Buddha). Monks and followers spend the day in meditation, reflecting on the teachings of Buddha.
Jainism: In Jainism, Guru Purnima is observed to honor the gurus who have attained spiritual wisdom. The day is marked by rituals and ceremonies that pay respect to these enlightened beings. It is also a time for followers to renew their vows and commitments to their spiritual journey.
Sikhism: While Sikhism does not traditionally celebrate Guru Purnima, the concept of the guru is central to Sikh teachings. Sikhs revere their ten gurus, starting with Guru Nanak, who laid the foundation of Sikhism. The Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhs, is also regarded as a perpetual guru.
Historical Roots of Guru Purnima
Vedic Traditions: The roots of Guru Purnima can be traced back to Vedic times, where the guru-shishya (teacher-student) relationship was of paramount importance. The Vedas, the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism, emphasize the role of the guru in imparting spiritual and practical knowledge. This tradition underscored the significance of the guru in guiding individuals toward enlightenment and self-realization.
Yogic Traditions: In yogic traditions, Guru Purnima is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The day is considered highly auspicious for starting new spiritual practices and seeking the blessings of one's guru. Yogis believe that the grace of the guru is essential for spiritual progress and liberation. Many yoga schools and ashrams organize special events, including meditation sessions, satsangs (spiritual discourses), and rituals.
Other Traditions: In addition to Vedic and yogic traditions, Guru Purnima holds significance in various other spiritual paths. For instance, in the Nath tradition, it is celebrated as the day when Lord Shiva, considered the Adi Guru (first guru), imparted the knowledge of yoga to the Saptarishis (seven sages). This highlights the universal importance of the guru across different spiritual disciplines.
The Relevance of Guru Purnima
In the contemporary world, the essence of Guru Purnima remains relevant. It serves as a reminder of the importance of teachers and mentors in shaping our lives. In a broader sense, it encourages us to seek wisdom, embrace lifelong learning, and honor those who guide us.
Guru Purnima is a profound celebration that transcends religious boundaries, honoring the timeless bond between the guru and the disciple. Whether through the wisdom of the Vedas, the teachings of Buddha, the spiritual insights of Jain gurus, or the guidance of Sikh Gurus, the festival underscores the universal need for a guiding light in our lives.
As we celebrate Guru Purnima, let us express our gratitude to our mentors and teachers who illuminate our path with their knowledge and wisdom.By understanding the historical roots and religious significance of Guru Purnima, we can appreciate the enduring impact of the guru in our spiritual and personal growth.
