Guru Purnima is a sacred day in the yogic and Hindu traditions dedicated to honoring the Guru, the spiritual teacher who dispels darkness (gu = darkness, ru = remover). Celebrated on the full moon of the lunar month of Ashadha, it is traditionally a time to express gratitude for the lineage of wisdom passed from teacher to student. The day is especially associated with Sage Vyasa, who compiled the Vedas and authored the Mahabharata, and is therefore revered as a foundational teacher in the Vedic tradition. Spiritually, Guru Purnima is not only about honoring an external teacher, but also about recognizing the inner guide, the light of awareness within. We observe the day through meditation, chanting, offerings, reflection, and recommitment to our path of study and practice, gathering in the evening together.