Qualities of a Spiritual Leader
We should have an idea of what qualities are required in a Hindu spiritual leader. In the performance of their duties at the temple where they are stationed, people can observe and tell others about their observations. When a vacancy arises in a temple, people can approach the selecting gurus with their choice and hope they will consider their recommendations.
For the present generation, some generalized criteria for the spiritual leader are:
Expertise in Sanskrit and Tamil (the ancient texts are in Sanskrit; the philosophy and theology have been developed by Manickavasagar and others in Tamil only)
Expertise in scriptures and rites, rituals, etc.
Concern for the poor and needy people (social consciousness)
Diligent observation of celibacy and poverty, and all their actions should be transparent
Assistants who are accountable to authorities: trustees, government agencies, and the public
The courage to obliterate the caste system inside and out of the temples
Willingness to reconsider the requirements regarding temple language (Sanskrit) for conducting prayer services. In Tamil Nadu, for example, Tamil should be the language of prayer.
No indulgence for insisting on Sanskrit, saying it is the divine language; there is no such thing. When you insist on Sanskrit, you are letting others know you are working to re-establish Brahmanism, supremacy of one caste over other castes, or maintaining the caste system.
Willingness in nonreligious matters to get the advice from lay people (Trustees and others from the community)
Willingness in religious matters to consult with other priests who have greater wisdom and age The prudence to leave money matters to others. You are not there for making money!
These considerations come from personal observations of others concerning Hinduism as well as other religions.
