What is a spiritual master ?

Although the idea of a spiritual Master is becoming more and more familiar to the general public, his nature and role are still poorly understood, even by those who claim to be disciples. The main purpose of this book is to clarify this question. Some may find this clarification a little ruthless, but it is necessary, for it is of first importance not to delude oneself about  spiritual realities. It is true that a master is that prodigious being who can lead men to the highest summits of the spirit, but for him as well as for his disciples, this sublime venture can succeed only if it is accompanied by a rigorous inner adherence to truth and selflessness.