Mentor Archetype : A Study of the Roles of Mentors in Hindu Tradition

Abstract

          This study of the mentor archetype is meant to reveal the roles or functions of mentors in accordance with the theory of archetype. It is found that mentors in Hindu tradition exhibit five significant characteristics : 1) mentors as teachers of religion ; 2) mentors as wise, protective figures  ; 3) mentors as testers ; 4) mentors as gift-givers ; 5) mentors as prophets.  All of these functions show that mentors are indispensable in the development of a disciple’s psyche.  They are essential in the preservation of life and salvation of the soul—leading to the highest goal of humanity.  It is also found that the Mentor archetype is closely related to the Divine.  Good mentors are considered the voice of a god.