Hilarion: This is a complex question to answer. There are many levels of attainment among those who walk the earth in this age. Some are of little development and are drawn only to that which is base and unworthy. Others, though tempted and drawn off the path by the world’s attractions, retain an inner knowledge of their goal and their purpose. Still, others have, in past incarnations, succeeded in raising their vibrations to the point required to escape from the wheel of rebirth and the karmic necessity. Yet, they have voluntarily taken on physical bodies so that they could be of service to their brothers as teachers, helpers, healers, etc.
In the last category fall many of the gurus and masters which have allowed themselves to come into the public eye. However, not all of those who permit others to revere them as advanced souls have, in fact, reached this status. These are intended to tempt the unwary seeker, so that he (the seeker) may learn to sharpen his discernment in the future and not again be led astray.
The best test for anyone to apply to such gurus is that of the “inner voice.” If your own inner voice tells you that this or that person is right for you to follow or to listen to, then do it. But, ensure that your reasons for following him are not tainted. Do not do it if it is a fad or your friends believe, or because others of his followers have befriended you. Do not do it for self, but for truth.
A final word of warning, however, is in order. There is a law that the true master never proclaims that he is such. His followers may think as they please, but he never says or does anything which allows others to believe that he considers himself an advanced soul. Any guru or master who proclaims that he is such or who endeavors to make you think that he is more spiritually advanced than you is definitely nothing of the sort.
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