Only an enlightened teacher possesses the wisdom to lead students beyond conventional boundaries, unveiling the illusions that obscure truth
CELEBRATING TEACHERS’ DAY
Effective teaching transcends the mere transmission of knowledge; it guides students toward the realm of true enlightenment. The role of a teacher is not limited to imparting information but extends to connecting learners with the essence of that knowledge. While it is common for educators to introduce students to the external world, a teacher’s true calling lies in guiding them to introspect, understand their unique identities, perceive their surroundings with clarity, and cultivate a vision for transforming society.
Knowledge is not simply bestowed or absorbed; it is a profound concept, deeply rooted in the human experience, and it evolves through the continual exercise of discernment between the real and the unreal – a relentless pursuit of truth. However, there are moments when this discerning power is obscured by the mind, clouding an individual’s perception. At times, one might mistake the illusion of smoke for the presence of fire or a mere rope for a venomous snake. When such misjudgments seep into educational practices, students may gather facts without grasping deeper realities—akin to those who churn water in vain, seeking butter that isn’t there.
Only an enlightened teacher possesses the wisdom to lead students beyond conventional boundaries, unveiling the illusions that obscure truth. Such a teacher fosters true comprehension by skillfully applying diverse epistemological approaches, allowing knowledge to be perceived in its purest form.
In today’s knowledge-centric societies, where ambition often drives individuals to seek guidance beyond themselves, there exists a yearning for direction grounded in a higher purpose. This quest mirrors the relationship between a teacher and a student—where the teacher, with grace and insight, leads the learner on a path that resonates with their deepest inclinations. Such guidance flows naturally from advanced teachers who tirelessly seek to instill qualities of humility and devotion, both internally and externally, in their students.
Enlightened individuals possess an inner radiance, requiring little external validation. In contrast, the minds of ordinary people often seek external stimuli, quickly forming connections with the outer world. To redirect this outward focus inward, a teacher must manifest externally, displaying the myriad intricacies of the heart and mind—akin to the divine wonders and wisdom of the cosmos. Thus, a visionary teacher exists both within and without, capable of motivating students by exerting external influence while simultaneously drawing them inward, transforming them into true learners who are centered and balanced.
Teacher with an awakened soul embodies purity and perfection, guiding students along the path of integrity and growth.
This journey marks the beginning of an individual’s ascent toward spiritual enlightenment, transcending the limitations of mundane understanding. Such teachings offer profound insights that extend beyond the confines of natural and social sciences, even in the face of the challenges posed by AI. Encountering such a remarkable teacher, even once in a lifetime, is a rare blessing—an experience that can impart wisdom far surpassing that which thousands of books could ever convey. On Teachers’ Day-2024, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to one such teacher who has exemplified these virtues and more profoundly influencing my world and worldview.
(The author is a regular columnist of Rising Kashmir and can be reached at: [email protected])
