Abstract
The guru occupies a central and frequently discussed topic in Indian philosophy. They embody various identities and roles and are significant in different ways across the Indian philosophical traditions. Most commonly, the guru is revered as a teacher or spiritual guide. However, beyond this role, they possess unique identities and characteristics distinguishing them from other followers. This work focuses on exploring the identity and role of the guru within Bhagavān Swaminarayana’s Akṣara-Puruṣottama Darśana.
This work begins by exploring the Bhagavad Gītā’s articulation of ‘guṇātīta’ to signify transcending the qualities of māyā. Bhagavān Swaminarayana’s teachings in the Vacanāmṛta identify this attribute as characteristic of the guru. Furthermore, the Upaniṣads and the Prasthānatrayī-Svāminārāyaṇa-Bhāṣya expand on the ontological identity of the guru as Akṣarabrahman, his unique relationship with Parabrahman, and his metaphysical functions. Collectively, these insights, along with those from letters authored by the tradition’s teachers, convey the guru’s distinctive identity and function within the philosophical framework of the tradition.
This analysis demonstrates the multifaceted role of the guṇātīta guru within the Akṣara-Puruṣottama Darśana. It portrays the guru not only as an ideal spiritual guide but also as a role model for aspirants and an authoritative interpreter of scriptural revelation. Additionally, the guru is seen as the earthly manifestation of Akṣarabrahman and a vessel for Parabrahman, serving as an intermediary of grace and facilitating experiences of spiritual bliss. By emphasizing the guru’s crucial role in guiding followers toward final liberation, this study highlights their indispensable presence in the tradition’s spiritual and philosophical domains.