Significance of Preceptor
The term Preceptor holds significant meaning across various Indian philosophical and religious contexts. In Jainism, it refers to a teacher whose interpretations shape followers' faith. Similarly, in Hindu texts like Purana and Dharmashastra, the Preceptor is a teacher or spiritual guide responsible for imparting wisdom, leading rituals, and initiating disciples. In Buddhism, especially Mahayana and Theravada traditions, the Preceptor serves as a mentor for guidance during monastic training. Ultimately, the Preceptor is central to education and spiritual growth across these traditions.
Synonyms: Mentor, Instructor, Teacher, Guide
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Preceptor'
In Buddhism, a Preceptor serves as an authoritative monk or mentor responsible for guiding and instructing other monks, particularly during ordination and throughout their monastic journey, emphasizing mentorship and the importance of teachings within the monastic community.
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) A mentor or guide within the Order whose teachings are significant for the monks but can become nullified under certain circumstances.[1] (2) Monks who serve as teachers or mentors for other monks in the community.[2] (3) A teacher or guide in a religious context, especially concerning ordination and monastic training.[3] (4) A mentor or teacher responsible for guiding and tending to the monk for life.[4]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A mentor or teacher, in this context referring to Venerable Sariputta's role as a guide to Rahula.[5]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara
(1) A monk or individual in a position of authority responsible for instructing or guiding other monks.[6]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The designated teacher or guide assigned to the candidate receiving ordination, who provides mentorship during their monastic journey.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Preceptor'
In Hinduism, a Preceptor is an enlightened teacher and spiritual guide who dispels ignorance, imparts wisdom, leads rituals, and is crucial for disciples' understanding of sacred texts and spiritual practices.
From: Padma Purana
(1) A preceptor is a teacher or guide, especially in religious or philosophical contexts.[8] (2) A wise individual who guides and oversees the ceremonial procedures and consecration during the rite.[9] (3) A teacher or mentor revered in the tradition for imparting knowledge, acknowledged as a highly deserving recipient of gifts.[10] (4) A teacher who imparts knowledge and sacred formulas to disciples, and must be a follower of Vishnu.[11] (5) A teacher or spiritual guide who imparts knowledge and wisdom, especially concerning scriptures.[12]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The individual overseeing the rituals who must prepare the site and materials required for the ceremonies.[13] (2) The teacher or spiritual guide who imparts wisdom and conducts the initiation rituals.[14] (3) A person who is bold, competent, pure, devoted, and capable of instructing disciples in the practice of mantras.[15] (4) The preceptor is a spiritual teacher or guide who offers direction in worship practices, underscoring the importance of mentorship in spiritual growth.[16] (5) The individual leading the rituals, responsible for the proper placing and handling of the stone slabs and pitchers.[17]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A teacher or mentor who imparts spiritual wisdom and guidance.[18] (2) A teacher or guide, representing wisdom and mentorship in the narrative.[19] (3) A teacher or guru who imparts knowledge and guidance in spiritual practices.[20] (4) A teacher or spiritual guide necessary for the performance of rites and rituals in the festival context.[21] (5) Spiritual teachers or guides whose approval enhances a devotee's spiritual journey.[22]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A teacher or instructor, particularly within a spiritual or educational context.[23] (2) A spiritual teacher or guide that the devotee invokes and meditates upon during rituals.[24] (3) The noble brahmin whom Cancula seeks as a spiritual guide to lift her from her sins.[25] (4) A teacher who has mastered the tenets and meanings of sacred texts, vital for passing on spiritual knowledge.[26] (5) The teacher who performs purification rites and rituals for the disciple's liberation, ensuring they understand the necessary principles and procedures.[27]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A wise teacher or mentor, in this case referring to Drona, whose loyalty to Arjuna is questioned by Karna.[28] (2) A respectful term used by the king when addressing Narada, acknowledging his wisdom and guidance.[29] (3) The teacher or mentor of Galava, inspiring his actions and decisions regarding the steeds.[30]
From: Linga Purana
(1) A spiritual teacher or guru who guides and imparts knowledge to a disciple.[31] (2) A knowledgeable instructor or guru responsible for conducting the rituals and guiding the devotee.[32] (3) Refers to a teacher, specifically in the context of divine knowledge shared among the gods.[33]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A spiritual teacher or guide who imparts wisdom and traditions to the disciples, influencing their understanding of the divine.[34]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The revered teachers and guides in spiritual practices, acknowledged in ceremonies.[35]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A teacher or spiritual guide whose association is said to enhance learning and humility among kings.[36] (2) A teacher or instructor, specifically one who has formal authority to teach the Veda.[37] (3) An individual generally regarded as a teacher or guide, whose bed, if violated, necessitates expiation.[38] (4) The teacher or guide in spiritual matters, who may bear the guilt of a disciple's transgressions when they condone them.[39] (5) A teacher or instructor, especially one who guides the student academically and morally, and under whom the life-long student should reside.[40]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) A teacher or guide who imparts knowledge, particularly in spiritual or philosophical contexts.[41] (2) A teacher or guide who imparts knowledge, particularly in spiritual or philosophical contexts.[42]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) A knowledgeable guru versed in the Vedas, who guides the Brahmin seeking knowledge of Brahman.[43] (2) A teacher or spiritual guide, crucial for the attainment of knowledge leading to Para Vidya.[44]
From: Kena Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) A teacher or spiritual guide who imparts knowledge about the worship and understanding of Brahman.[45]
From: Sivaprakasam (Study in Bondage and Liberation)
(1) A spiritual teacher or guide who imparts Divine Knowledge and facilitates the enlightenment of the self.[46] (2) A divine guide sent by God to help individuals attain spiritual enlightenment.[47] (3) A visible embodiment of inner light that awakens true knowledge in individuals.[48]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 1: Initiation, Mercury and Laboratory
(1) Teachers or mentors who instruct individuals in the knowledge and practice of Mercurial operations.[49] (2) A wise and knowledgeable teacher or mentor who guides students in their learning.[50]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) A teacher or mentor from whom knowledge is orally transmitted, as experienced by the author.[51]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A teacher or mentor who helps the protagonist, Devadatta, understand the signs conveyed by the princess.[52] (2) A mentor or teacher, who helps the protagonist understand the signs and symptoms of love.[53]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 1: Sutrasthana
(1) A teacher or instructor responsible for guiding students in their understanding of Ayurveda.[54]
From: Mudrarakshasa (literary study)
(1) An instructor or teacher figure who guides pupils and imposes discipline to keep them aligned with the proper path.[55]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Great guides or teachers acknowledged as significant but ultimately must be relinquished if they obstruct the path to God-enjoyment.[56]
Jain concept of 'Preceptor'
In Jainism, a Preceptor is a teacher or guru whose unique interpretations influence followers' faith and behavior. This diversity in teachings fosters varied approaches within the religious community, shaping individual understanding and practice.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A teacher or guru whose differing interpretations and teachings can lead to varying approaches to faith and conduct among followers.[57]
The concept of Preceptor in local and regional sources
The term "Preceptor" signifies a respected guide or mentor, representing authority and wisdom in various contexts, from seeking food guidance to educational mentorship, reflecting its multifaceted role in providing knowledge and support.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) A wise and knowledgeable figure to whom the Leopard refers for guidance and support, specifically in times of fear.[58] (2) A title of respect the Jackal uses when addressing the Wild Cat, seeking guidance on how to find food.[59]
From: Formal Education System in Ancient India
(1) The teacher or mentor in the ancient education system, who provided instruction and practical knowledge to students.[60]