by Swami Radhanandaji

A great debate, doubts and concerns are churning in the heart of devotees, particularly the sincere and determined aspirants of Truth, Love and God. It is important to note that teachings are vastly superior to teachers since the former is eternal and the latter non­eternal.

by Swami Vivekananda

How, then, are we to know a teacher? The sun requires no torch to make it visible; we need not light a candle in order to see it. When the sun rises, we instinctively become aware of the fact, and when a teacher of men comes to help us, the soul will instinctively know that truth has already begun to shine upon it.

by Swami Yatiswarananda (from "Meditation and Spiritual Life")

From time immemorial the guru or the spiritual teacher has been given the highest place of honor in India and elsewhere. The Hindu scriptures go to the length of saying that the guru is Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesvara, nay, even the Param Brahman (the supreme Spirit) Itself.

by Swami Radhanandaji
There are so many self-proclaimed gurus in the world today. While it's difficult to recognize a true guru from outward appearances, there are some definite signs given in the scriptures, particularly Gitaji.