what is a guru

A guru is a term used in Hinduism to describe a personal spiritual teacher and guide. The word "guru" means "mentor, guide, expert, or master" in Sanskrit. Traditionally, a guru is someone who has deep knowledge that can lead to moksha (liberation or enlightenment), and has direct experience of Divine vision or grace, which has been assimilated into their way of being. A guru guides the spiritual progress of their students, known as shishya, through their spiritual, psychological, and practical insight. At an individual level, a guru can be a teacher of skills, a counselor, one who helps in the birth of mind and realization of ones Self (Atma), who instills values and experiential knowledge, an exemplar, an inspiration, and who helps guide a student's spiritual development. At a social and religious level, the guru helps continue the religion and Hindu way of life. A true guru can be identified as someone who has gained spiritual insight, attained a high level of enlightenment, or has risen above the ordinary, and who is ready to act as a spiritual guide to impart the necessary knowledge to students who are ready.