F*ck the Modern Guru
Time and time again, Yoga teachers who accept the title of “Guru” have been found guilty of manipulation, abuse and a laundry list of organized crime. They’re often assisted in these endeavors by their devotees. It’s giving cartel.
A “Guru” could have existed more truthfully in the ancient past; way before money, fame or technology existed. In the ancient past, a Guru would have only a few students to whom they would pass down knowledge. They would receive no payment — just donations, meals or a bed to sleep on — because the teachings don’t belong to them, they belong to the lineage.
A real Guru wouldn’t have a credit card let alone a Rolls Royce. They would be fully celibate unless married, let alone having relations with multiple students. Their name would be whispered among spiritual families and seekers, not praised from the mountaintops. They would remain humble and devoted to the teachings rather than their selfish desires.
Chances are some of these ancient Gurus were also f*cked up, while others were true saints and did right by the practice. There are good and bad humans everywhere. Any Guru is as human as you or I.
The modern Guru is a contradiction to everything Yoga preaches: moderation, humility, self-discipline, awareness, compassion, spiritual growth over material growth, and remaining in selfless service of others. A Guru seamlessly becomes a Cult leader because they are primarily in service of themselves.
If you see a Yoga teacher with exorbitant wealth from their teachings, run. A Yogi can be financially healthy, but a Yogi billionaire is the purest contradiction. If you see a yoga teacher who discourages you from studying from other teachers or lineages, run. Diversity of knowledge is how we stay balanced in a convoluted landscape.
F*ck the modern Guru for putting a bad reputation on Yoga. F*ck the modern Guru for making outsiders believe that Yoga is demonic or a cult. F*ck the modern Guru for tarnishing things like wearing white clothing, chanting mantras, giving hands-on adjustments, and using spiritual symbols. To anyone who has used the sacred practices of Yoga to manipulate or hurt innocent people: F*ck you. You’re not forgiven.
