Ask Osho!

Are Mahavira's teachings on asharan and his act of making disciples mutually contradictory?

Synthesized from Source definition

"A true master shows you the way, but the journey is yours alone; seek no refuge in others, for the path must be walked by your own feet."

Core Insight:
According to Osho, Mahavira’s ‘asharan’ (seek no refuge) and his accepting disciples only seem contradictory. The awakened appear paradoxical because they mirror life. ‘No refuge’ warns against clinging; discipleship means learning directions from one who sees farther, then walking yourself. A master can point the way like to a river, but no one can walk for you.
A teacher can show you the path, but you must do the walking—don’t cling to the teacher and stop.
Why this matters practically
- Encourages self-reliance and responsibility in practice rather than dependence on a guru.
- Prevents spiritual stagnation by using guidance without clinging to milestones or personalities.
- Fosters discerning listening—absorb what helps, then act from your own understanding.
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