In today’s world, some people believe that the Guru is a distant and unapproachable figure, sitting on a high throne, like the separation between high and low classes. However, this is not the truth. The Guru is always near to the disciple, in ways that we cannot imagine.
In Vajrayana, the connection between Guru and disciple, known as Samaya, is of utmost importance. When Samaya is broken, the disciple will have to suffer in the Vajra Hell. Not only that, but the Guru must also descend into the Vajra Hell with the disciple.
In Tibetan Buddhism, we always talk about samayas. It is very important for us to understand the true meaning of samay. The practice of Vajrayana depends entirely on the maintenance of samaya.
Without samaya, even if we practice mahamudra, dzogchen, or recite millions of mantras, all this will be meaningless, and we will achieve nothing.