gurudiksha

Gurudiksha is a term used in Indian spiritual traditions to denote the initiation, blessing, or instruction given by a guru to a disciple. The word combines guru, meaning teacher, with diksha, meaning initiation or consecration, and is commonly used to describe the formal or informal process by which a disciple commits to and receives guidance from a spiritual teacher.

In many lineages, gurudiksha encompasses both the reception of teachings and a commitment to specific practices, ethical precepts, and disciplines. The form can range from a formal ceremony or vow to a more informal acknowledgment of the guru's authority and guidance. It may include study of scriptures, meditation or prayer techniques, and service (seva) as expressions of devotion and discipline.

In Sikh tradition, the term gurudiksha is not a standard technical term; the Sikh initiation into the Khalsa is the Amrit Sanchar ceremony, while gurudiksha may be used more broadly to refer to accepting the guru's guidance or blessings. Across Hindu, Jain, and other Indian traditions, diksha is commonly used to denote initiation into a spiritual order or path, and gurudiksha can be understood as the guru-led aspect of that process.

Overall, gurudiksha underscores the guru–disciple relationship as a pathway to spiritual development, with practices and expectations shaped by the specific tradition and teacher. See also Diksha, Amrit, Guru–disciple tradition.