Training

A good teacher must have attained a reasonably high standard in the Shaolin art he teaches. The cynical saying that “those who know, do; those who don’t, teach”, certainly does not apply here. A Kungfu master may not win every match he fights in, but he must be able to put up some reasonable defence even if he loses. Nowadays, many so-called Kungfu instructors, including some well-known ones, do not know how to fight!

Of course, intending students should not challenge the teacher to test if he can fight. Although challenges were not uncommon in the past, such actions are unbecoming and extremely rude today. Nevertheless, intending students can have a good idea by observing whether sparring and force training are systematically taught.

Second, a good teacher should have some sound theoretical knowledge on his discipline, and he should not mind if we politely ask him relevant questions. But if he starts giving excuses like the answers are too complicated for us to comprehend or he won’t tell because they are secrets, then we have good reasons to suspect.

However, there may be masters who have attained a very high level in their art, but who have little or no theoretical knowledge. In fact, there are numerous stories of meditation teachers who insisted that their students follow their instructions without question. Bodhidharma himself is reputed to have asked his students to burn their books, for enlightenment is an intuitive, not an intellectual, attainment. These rare, great masters are an exception, and if we ever have the honour to meet them, it is not difficult to recognize them because they radiate an invisible but perceptible field of greatness.

Third, a good teacher should be able to prescribe remedial treatment if his students unwittingly hurt themselves. Sustaining physical injuries is a common occurrence in Shaolin Kungfu training, but it does not cause any problem because the master can overcome this with Kungfu medicine or remedial exercise. Advanced chi kung training can cause serious internal injuries if it is not practised properly. A good master, besides warning his students beforehand of the pitfalls to avoid, must also be able to provide remedy. In advanced meditation, injury to the psyche may occur if it is not practised correctly. A good master with knowledge of remedy is necessary.

The fourth quality of a good teacher is that he must be systematic, generous, and inspiring in his teaching. An expert may be very deep in his art, but if he is unwilling to impart knowledge or is haphazard in his teaching, students are not likely to learn much from him. Someone mentioned that mediocre teachers instruct, good teachers teach, but great teachers inspire. An inspiring teacher not only makes learning an enjoyable experience, but motivates us unconsciously so that we are spurred to soar the heights.

But the most important quality of a good teacher, the hallmark of a great master, is that he must hold and practice high moral values in his daily living. Without this quality, no matter how competent he is in his art or how effective in his teaching, he forfeits the honour to be called a great master, and remains a mere expert or instructor.

Understandably, great masters are rare gems; if you find one, treasure him dearly.