In the Hindu tradition, many spiritual seekers search for an enlightened master from which to unlock the deepest wisdoms about our world and ourselves. These masters are known as satgurus, and are said to have achieved a state of self-realization and come to understand ultimate truth.
Most of us do not have the privilege to learn (at least in person) from such an enlightened master, however without one our journeys of self-realization and transcendent peace are not in vain. To transcend the ego and connect with our deepest natures we can find teachers everywhere, in our everyday lives.
The Sanskrit word upaguru translates to "nearby teacher" and conveys a concept that, when internalized, can transform any of your daily interactions and experiences into a profound lesson towards your self development. It only requires one to be aware and sincere.
The idea of the upaguru is that anyone or anything can be your guru, or teacher, in that moment. Just as a satguru ('true guru') would have assistant teachers known as upagurus... the universe is the ultimate satguru, and its constituent elements serve their roles as its upagurus. All things function as teachers—yourself included. This does not mean that the lesson will be obvious, but if you sincerely ask the question "What can I learn from this?" you will often find a profound answer.
Upagurus Come in Different Forms
People We can learn qualities like kindness, love, respect, and benevolence from those whose company we enjoy. More challenging relationships are powerful teachers for things such as patience, unconditional love, acceptance, or how to let things go. In either case there is always a new perspective to understand which can broaden your outlook, deepen your wisdom, and open your mind.
Nature The elements and living creatures of the world follow a natural order that conveys truth about our reality. The Daoist way is to study and become attuned to this natural law, and then to stop exerting effort attempting to swim against the cosmic current of life. Martial artists have often studied the patterns of animals and nature to inform their practices.
Yourself Observing your own thoughts, emotions, actions, and nature are all learning opportunities. If you can witness yourself with some level of non-attachment (adopting a perspective of curiosity, not judgement), you might be surprised at the insights gained, both about yourself and the wider world.
"It is only necessary to realize that each person can offer us, at any given moment, exactly what spirit wants us to learn. When the moment is gone and the insight revealed, the upaguru returns to being friend, spouse, or stranger." - Deepak Chopra, The Path to Love (page 183)
Reflection/Journaling Prompt
Who or what was your most recent upaguru? What might you be able to learn from them?