guru

Guru is a Sanskrit term meaning "teacher" or "dispeller of ignorance." The root gu- meaning darkness and ru- meaning remover, together signify one who dispels spiritual darkness. In traditional usage, a guru is a trusted guide in matters of spiritual practice and moral development, often within a formal guru–shishya (teacher–disciple) relationship. The guru’s role extends beyond imparting knowledge to directing the disciple’s experiential realization, and in many traditions the guru is regarded as a conduit of spiritual grace.

In Hinduism, the guru is central in many lineages. The guru–shishya parampara emphasizes transmission of teachings through direct instruction, initiation, and practice. The guru may be part of a lineage (sampradaya) and is sometimes viewed as a living embodiment of the truth taught.

In Sikhism, the term guru denotes the ten human Gurus who founded the faith, with Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru after the line of human Gurus ended. The scripture itself is regarded as the guru and guide for Sikhs, who emphasize devotion, righteous living, and social justice.

In Buddhism, the teacher is also called a guru or lama in various traditions, where guru yoga or devotion to a realized teacher is part of practice. Tibetan Buddhism, for example, places great importance on the guru's guidance.

In contemporary usage, "guru" can refer to any expert or mentor who provides guidance. It also appears in popular culture to denote a charismatic leader, which has led to criticism of unscrupulous or commercialized figures who claim spiritual authority.

See also: Gurukul, Satguru.