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DictionaryguruSpiritual teacher
noun

guru

GOO-roo/ˈɡuːruː/

A respected teacher who guides others spiritually.

The guru guides his students in meditation.

A spiritual teacher guides three seated students in meditation beside a lamp and prayer beads.
Etymology
guruSanskritheavy, weighty; venerable

Sanskrit guru connects literal weight with being venerable or worthy of honor, hence an honored teacher. English broadened the spiritual-teacher sense to include influential mentors and experts.

In context

Mahatma Choa Kok Sui & Charlotte Anderson1:19
He is always looking at his spiritual teacher. He is constantly meditating on the avatar. Therefore, he has an enormous degree of oneness with his guru
About the Teachings of Our Master-PPM Sharanagathi Talk with Practice 9x

More examples

  • The guru leads his students in meditation each morning.
  • She asks her guru for guidance when her faith wavers.
  • Several gurus gather to discuss their spiritual traditions.

Forms

guru · gurus

Similar words

teacher
A broader term for someone who teaches any subject.
swami
A Hindu religious title, often for a monk or teacher.