Lord Shiva (Teacher) and Goddess Parvati (Disciple)
Significance
The fundamental text across monastic orders for establishing the sacred relationship between disciple and master.
A fundamental text in traditional monastics detailing the nature of the Guru, the mystery of the Guru-disciple relationship, and how meditating on the Guru awakens self-realization.
Key concepts
The Guru defined as the dispeller of darkness ('Gu' = darkness, 'Ru' = dispeller)
Identity of the true Guru with the Trimurti and absolute Brahman
Purification of the disciple's mind through devotion and service to the preceptor
Meditation on the inner feet (Paduka) of the master to awaken self-realization