Understanding Spiritual Principles Teachers Teach

By Paul Wood


When it comes to spirituality, some believe in living life according to the bible. Whereas, there are others who see religion and spirituality as two distinct and different entities. Many of these individuals live by spiritual principles teachers offer students on a variety of spiritual paths.

The seven key principles that most find quite useful are gratitude, humility, optimism, generosity, forgiveness, intention and expectation. In most cases, individuals have found that in living by these principles, success is more likely in all areas of life than otherwise. As a result, many individuals now use these principles as daily mantras and affirmations.

While a guide or mentor may teach one to understand various religious and spiritual concepts, it is not that understanding which is the goal. For, it is a personal experience which an individual undergoes during the process that is the most important aspect and outcome of such teachings. As such, a teacher may or may not be able to help one understand the principles and practices of any said religion or spiritual path, rather might lead the individual to discover what one believes is true according to the individual's true nature.

While school teachers and college professors often teach something specific to a particular subject, those involved in teaching spirituality often lead rather than teach. For example, leading the individual to discover the knowledge that already exist within self rather than teaching something that exist outside.

In the case of an Advaita or Non-dual teacher, the teacher often points the student towards the innate qualities within oneself. In most cases, emptiness, awareness and oneness along with other lessons are taught over time. After which, it can be easier to teach the student how everyone and everything is of one existence regardless of the path which one may choose.

While most refer to generosity in the sense of monetary terms, this is not always the case. For, being generous has a number of definitions. In some cases, this could relate to time, in others sharing food or materials with others. Whatever the case, the importance of being generous is to share with others in need when and where possible.

One of the toughest principles for most is that of forgiveness. Of course, there are small actions and things which are easier to forgive than others. Whereas, it can take a great deal of time to forgive someone who has committed a crime or wrong against oneself or others. Still, it is often important to find the will to do so in order to move on in life. As such, the sooner one can forgive, the sooner one can return a more joyous and exciting life.

Ultimately, there are practices and principles which different mentors, guides and teachers focus on when working with students. Most often, becoming self-aware is the primary goal. Beyond that, each has a distinct method and list of principles based on whatever path or paths one may be teaching at the time. It is generally up to the student to determine whether or not these principles and practices are something that will improve the quality of life over time.




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