According to Osho, incarnate beings—the Master, Krishna, Buddha—are compassionate bridges in bhakti-sadhana: surrender to them launches the journey, quiets doubt, and carries the devotee across the river of fear and confusion. Yet at realization’s threshold, their very form must be released; gratitude remains, attachment ends. Methods, mantras, and even the Master are boats to be thanked and left to step into one’s own light.
A living teacher helps you cross the river, but once you reach the other side, you thank them and walk on your own.