Significance of Gurudakshina
Gurudakshina, within Vaishnavism and other traditions, refers to the offerings or gifts given by students to their teachers as tokens of gratitude for guidance and education. This concept emphasizes respect and appreciation for the teacher's mentorship, manifesting in various forms such as fees or traditional offerings. Gurudakshina symbolizes the relationship between a disciple and their guru, reflecting acknowledgment of teachings received and often occurs upon the completion of their studies across different cultural and historical contexts.
Synonyms: Offering, Donation, Gift, Contribution, Tribute, Honorarium
In Dutch: Gurudakshina; In German: Gurudakshina; In Finnish: Gurudakshina; In Spanish: Gurudakshina
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Gurudakshina'
Gurudakshina in Hinduism represents a student's fee or gift to a guru, symbolizing respect and gratitude for teachings received, often given at the end of education, reflecting traditional values of acknowledgment and appreciation.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A traditional offering or gift made to a guru by their student as a token of gratitude for guidance.[1] (2) The offering or service a student gives to a teacher, which Balarama and Krishna desired to provide to Sandipani Muni.[2]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) The traditional fee given by students to their teacher, in this context referring to Drona’s request from his students.[3] (2) A gift given to the teacher by students upon completion of their studies, reflecting appreciation and respect.[4]
The concept of Gurudakshina in local and regional sources
Gurudakshina is a traditional offering or fee paid by students to their teachers as a gesture of gratitude and respect upon completing their education, signifying appreciation for the teacher's mentorship and guidance.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A traditional Indian term referring to a gift or offering made to a teacher or guru in gratitude.[5] (2) The fee or offering given to a teacher, in Duryodhana's case it refers to the request from his teacher Drona to give half of his kingdom to the Pandavas.[6] (3) A traditional offering or fee paid by students to their teachers after completing their education as a gesture of gratitude.[7] (4) A traditional offering or fee given to a teacher or guru by a student, signifying respect and gratitude.[8]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The gift offered to the Guru by the disciple as a symbol of their relationship, and the completion of the initiation, as referenced in the text.[9]