The False Guru Test

File under: Reference

One of our favorite posters to Sarlo's GuruRatings list shared this yesterday. While we find many more indicators of false gurus than are listed here, it's a good overview of what makes up the difference between self-important narcissists in love with their self image and those who simply see the truth and share it outside of any lust for name and fame. We especially like this advice:

Avoid any group that focuses on the "master" themselves rather than the teachings or spiritual practices. This will be a hindrance to your self-realisation for your focus will be drawn outside of yourself, and usually indicates that there is not a lot more on offer than guru worship.

The ugly specter of occlusion that is guru worship in the West exposed as a primary impediment to self-realization. Good stuff.