H.E. Professor Samdhong Rinpoche on 'The True Teacher' organised by Ladakh Public School/2024

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On 22nd June, 2024, His Eminence Professor Samdhong Rinpoche delivered a profoundly insightful talk on the topic "The True Teacher" to an audience of over 300 educators. This significant event, organized by Ladakh Public School, marked the largest gathering of principals and teachers from the 11 CBSE schools of the Sahodaya Complex in Leh.
In his address, Rinpoche emphasized that a true teacher is fundamentally a true learner. He elaborated on the 10 qualities of a true teacher as outlined in Pramitayana, offering deep reflections and guidance on the essential
characteristics that educators should embody. These qualities, rooted in ancient wisdom, provide a comprehensive framework for teachers striving to inspire and nurture their students effectively.
Summary of The Talk
The True Teacher:
Speaker : Professor Samdong Rinpoche
Venue: Ladakh Public school
We are living in a social system shaped by post-modern civilization, where consumerism reigns supreme. This environment encourages incessant comparison and competition among individuals. In such a society, everyone is seen as a competitor rather than a collaborator. This shift has led to what can be described as a form of decivilization, where communal harmony is sacrificed for personal gain.
The True Teacher: A Return to Authentic Education
1. Fortunate to Be Uneducated by Post-Modern Standards In many ways, those who remain untouched by the influences of post-modern education are fortunate. They are untainted by the rampant consumerism and competition that have come to define our era.
2. Reviving the Nalanda Education System We must look back to our roots and seek to reestablish the Indian Nalanda education system. This ancient model of learning, which thrived on holistic education, can offer a counterbalance to the fragmented and superficial knowledge prevalent today.
The Essence of Teaching
Teaching, at its core, is about sharing knowledge and wisdom from oneself to others. In India, the term "guru" is used to denote a teacher, emphasizing the deep respect and spiritual connection between the teacher and the student. The relationship between a guru and their chela (disciple) is sacred. In Buddhist tradition, the terms "Acharya" and "Upadhyaya" are used, and a teacher is also referred to as "Kalyanamitra," meaning a virtuous friend.
Principles of True Teaching
1. Egalitarian Approach A true teacher must not appear superior to their students. Instead, they should work collaboratively with students in the learning process.
2. Lifelong Learning A true teacher is a lifelong learner, someone who is constantly expanding their knowledge and understanding. This mindset not only enriches the teacher but also sets an example for students.
3. Capability and Humility A teacher must be more capable of learning than their students but should remain humble and willing to learn and research to make subjects more accessible and engaging for students.
The Process of Learning
1. Hearing (ཐོས་འབྱུ་) The first step is to hear and receive knowledge.
2. Contemplation and Analysis (བསམ་འབྱུ་) This involves deep contemplation and analysis of the information received.
3. Practice སྒོམ་བྱུང་Finally, applying the knowledge in practical ways solidifies learning.
Janna and Manna: To Know and To Accept
The journey of learning involves both knowing (janna) and accepting (manna) the knowledge, integrating it into one’s life.
Qualities of a True Teacher
1. Humbleness
2. Peacefulness
3. Stable Mind
4. Subject Mastery
5. Hardworking Nature
6. Well-informed on Various Topics
7. Good Command of Language
8. Compassionate Disposition
9. Patience
10. Differentiated Instruction
Marinate (Sumparigarh - ཡོང་འཛིན): Total Student Support
A teacher must support and uphold their students in all aspects of their development.
Three Responsibilities of a Teacher
1. Creating Interest and Willingness Inspire an unshakeable interest in the subject matter.
2. Appropriate Teaching Methods Teach in ways that are appropriate and effective for the students’ understanding.
3. Removing Obstacles Help students overcome distractions, obstacles, and negative emotions that hinder their learning.
A teacher should have the mindset to disseminate information to students without any expectation of return. True teaching is an act of selfless giving, aimed at nurturing the minds and spirits of the next generation.
Summary by
Mr Sonam Wangdue
Principal
Ladakh Public School