The Guru Principle A Guide to the Teacher-Student Relationship in Buddhism

A clear-headed and relatable guidebook for navigating the student-teacher relationship in Buddhism, written by one of the first female Buddhist teachers in the West. Drawing on over fifty years of personal experience as both a student and a teacher, Shenpen Hookham addresses the opportunities and challenges facing modern Dharma students who wish to study with a teacher. With honesty and clarity, she discusses the roles of the teacher, practices related to the guru, and commonly asked questions, offering a pragmatic and compassionate handbook for entering this sacred relationship with open eyes and an open heart.
Why You Should Read?
Gain a clear understanding of the Buddhist view of the guru, essential for a beneficial student-teacher relationship.
Learn from the candid experiences of a pioneering female teacher who has navigated this path for over five decades.
Find practical answers to common questions and challenges faced by Western Dharma students.
Bridge the gap between traditional texts and the real-world practice of the teacher-student relationship.
About the Author
Lama Shenpen Hookham
is one of the first female Buddhist teachers in the West, with over fifty years of experience as both a student and a teacher. She is the author of several books on Buddhism and is known for her clear, relatable teaching style. Her work focuses on making the Dharma accessible to modern practitioners while honoring traditional wisdom.