The Vajra Parrot Squawks!

(A picture of an alleged fake spiritual teacher)

A few people have asked lately about finding and relating to a spiritual teacher. It's a difficult subject (in the Buddhist world we have our fair share of tricksters, hucksters, bandits and con-men (often with fancy robes or titles)) and I can't really give definitive advice, but I can offer a few pointers that I myself use/have used.

Many teachers of all philosophical/religious persuasions look good on paper (some really are accomplished masters of bullshit, so there's no surprise there) but how do we decide whether these self-proclaimed gurus are worth listening to?

Answer: we check them out and use our intellect and all the resources at our disposal. In this era of mass-communication there is no reason for people to be trapped and taken in by cults or charlatans.

* In general, authentic teachers with insight walk the walk and don't just talk the talk. Is there any scandal about the person you are checking out? What's the word on the street/internet about this person? Is he or she renowned or reviled? (Remember also that, sometimes, even genuine teachers have enemies who fabricate vitriol about them - bear this in mind when doing your research.)

* Genuinely accomplished teachers don't boast about special attainments - doing so is actually a breakage of vows from the Buddhist perspective - nor insinuate that they are any different to you or me. People have asked, for example, the Dalai Lama whether he is an enlightened being, his answer is that he is a simple monk - there's no nudge-nudge, wink-wink in his response leading you to draw a different conclusion.

* They enjoy the respect of other renowned teachers but they don't boast about their connections, real or imagined.

* They don't have inflated egos, nor draw attention to their importance, real or imagined.

* They are respectful of others.

* They are straightforward and in the present moment, and not enmeshed in fantastical alternate realities or distractions (especially about themselves).

* They are generous, patient and kind.

* They don't ask for money, nor expect it.

* They are in control of themselves and their emotions.

* They are not bullshitters, nor do they promulgate exaggerated legends about themselves.

* Their conduct is in accord with what they teach, and what they teach is in accord with authentic tradition.

Really, any relationship is built on rapport, and this is no different with a spiritual teacher. As this is a very important relationship to anyone who feels the necessity to cultivate it, it's important to expend some energy to find out about them and see whether they are who and what they claim to be. There really is no point wasting valuable time listening to the squawking of vajra parrots who are mere tin pot copies of worthwhile mentors, even though they may, to all appearances, superficially at least, resemble the real thing.

Caveat emptor!