Gurus Engaging in Misdeeds?

 In Hinduism, a spiritual guru enjoys more respect than even parents because he not only gives his disciples a spiritual rebirth but also leads them on the path of liberation. Hence, he is even considered God in human form, and at times even ritually worshipped. Unfortunately, this sentiment is often exploited by fake gurus who assume the role of a spiritual master without necessary qualifications and engage in misdeeds.

 https://www.hinduwebsite.com/buzz/ten-signs-of-a-fake-guru.asp

Misdeeds?

I watched a 2024 Andre Duqum podcast last evening as he interviewed this very charsimatic and calming personality dressed like a vedic monk...someone I never seen before. I was immediately drawn to the interviewee.  His persona seemed so "trustworthy" and attractive because it seemed so "humble". He spoke with such quiet conviction. I seen the powerful charisma in him. I wanted to look at him and I wanted to listen to him...and I wanted to believe him. That was when the first red flag was planted in my gut.  I asked out loud, "Is this a form of subtle hypnosis? Is he authentic or a cult leader?" 

I watched Andre interview him.  Though he was a pleasant, professional and receptive interviewer...I noticed that the expression on his face was not one of complete openness...especially over the discussion on the monk's experience of "samadhi" after one meditation experience.  Another little red flag. 

Then the monk, (who will remain unnamed for now in respect for the podcaster) began to speak of this organization he headed and his definition of "bhakti" which really meant- devotion to him as the guru.  That was the biggest red flag. I needed to investigate more. So, I did research today.

The first thing I discovered was that though he dressed like a vedic monk...he was called a "neo-Hindu religious leader". He wasn't accepted amongst traditional hindu leaders.  That was a very big flag. Then I seen that he went beyond the notion of "Tat Tvam Assi" to call himself ...in a sense...an incarnation of God. Not so humble! Red flag! Finally, I began to read that there were allegations made against him. Most of the publicized  allegations were against his right hand man who he himself publically claimed to be an incarnation of Shiva. Hmm! He was God and this disciple was Shiva? In his disciple's ashram, which I assume would be under his control, horrific abuse was said to have occurred. I went on to listen to the testimony of people who "escaped". 

It was brutal and it stirred up my interest in cults again. It  made me question, once again, the problem with devotion to a guru who has such charisimatic abilities. 

Oh man...how does one trust someone claiming to be a spiritual leader out to serve our best interests and spiritual growth? Truth is - we can't.

Be careful with those professing that the "sweetness of bhakti" is best experienced by serving another human being with a hungry ego.

Hmm! All is well.