The Siva Samhitii divides sadhakas (pupils or aspirants) into four
classes. They are (1) m.fdu (feeble), (2) madhyama (average), (3)
adhimatra (superior) and (4) adhimatratama (the supreme one). The
last, the highest, is alone able to cross beyond the ocean of the manifest
world.
The feeble seekers are those who lack enthusiasm, criticise their
teachers, are rapacious, inclined to bad action, eat much, are in the power
of women, unstable, cowardly, ill, dependent, speak harshly, have weak
characters and lack virility. The Guru (Teacher or Master) guides such
seekers in the path of Mantra Yoga only. With much effort, the sadhaka
can reach enlightenment in twelve years.
Of even mind, capable of bearing hardship, wishing to perfect the
work, speaking gently, moderate in all circumstances, such is the
average seeker. Recognising these qualities, the Guru teaches him Laya
Yoga, which gives liberation. (Laya means devotion, absorption or
dissolution.)
Of stable mind, capable of Laya Yoga, virile, independent, noble,
merciful, forgiving, truthful, brave, young, respectful, worshipping his
teacher, intent on the practice of Yoga, such is a superior seeker. He
can reach enlightenment after six years of practice. The Guru instructs
this forceful man in Hatha Yoga.
Of great virility and enthusiasm, good looking, courageous, learned
in scriptures, studious, sane of mind, not melancholy, keeping young,
regular in food, with his senses under control, free from fear, clean,
skilful, generous, helpful to all, firm, intelligent, independent, forgiving,
of good character, of gentle speech and worshipping his Guru, such is
a supreme seeker, fit for all forms of Yoga. He can reach enlightenment in three years.
The syllable gu means darkness and ru means light. He alone is a Guru who removes
darkness and brings enlightenment.) The conception of a Guru is deep
and significant. He is not an ordinary guide. He is a spiritual teacher
who teaches a way of life, and not merely how to earn a livelihood.
He transmits knowledge of the Spirit and one who receives such
knowledge is a sisya, a disciple
The sisya should above all treasure love, moderation and humility.
Love begets courage, moderation creates abundance and humility
generates power. Courage without love is brutish. Abundance without
moderation leads to over-indulgence and decay. Power without humility
breeds arrogance and tyranny. The true sisya learns from his Guru
about a power which will never leave him as he returns to the
Primeval One, the Source of His Being.