In the ancient tradition, a student dwelling with his teacher was guided by a code of reverence and discipline. He was never to imitate the teacher’s way of sitting, speaking, or moving, always maintaining a respectful distinction. If ever inappropriate words were spoken in that sacred space, the student was to cover his ears or quietly leave, preserving the sanctity of his mind. In the presence of his teacher, he would not reply unbidden, nor would he stand or remain seated without instruction. Cleanliness was essential—he would regularly cleanse and anoint his limbs, presenting himself with purity. The student understood that stepping on the teacher’s seat, his shadow, or anything held in similar regard was forbidden, for such acts showed disrespect. He would not leave the teacher’s presence without first seeking permission, especially when engaged in matters that were dear and beneficial. In all ways, he avoided making noise or spitting before his teacher, choosing instead to sit attentively below, upon a mat or a board, with a focused mind. Whenever the teacher moved, the student followed—if the teacher ran, he ran after him; if the teacher walked, he accompanied him. When they sat together, whether upon stones or wooden seats, the student maintained proper distance and decorum. His words were always gentle, sweet, and beneficial, never harsh or careless. He served his teacher with devotion—oiling his limbs, fanning him, carrying his footwear, and holding an umbrella when needed. He was careful never to harm others or speak ill of anyone. Each day, he collected only what was necessary, seeking alms in moderation and never indulging in excess. He avoided distractions such as watching dance or harboring a desire for singing and similar entertainments. He refrained from private conversations with women of questionable purity or those belonging to the lowest castes. He did not engage in wrestling, bathing, or other amusements for pleasure. If, through delusion or greed, he took up what had been renounced, he would fall from his spiritual state. Above all, he would never harm the teacher from whom he received knowledge, for such an act was a grave transgression. If a student strayed from the right path, Manu, the ancient lawgiver, declared that he should be abandoned. Should he be dismissed by his teacher, the student would abstain from saluting his former teachers. Even if forbidden or instructed in what was beneficial, he would never act unrighteously. Among the teacher’s sons, wives, and relatives, he behaved with utmost propriety. If a teacher’s son instructed him, he honored him as he would the teacher himself, though he would not perform the washing of the teacher’s son’s feet. Those of different castes were greeted with respect, rising and offering salutations. The student would not perform tasks for the teacher’s wife, nor would he arrange her hair. Instead, he showed reverence by touching the ground and declaring, “I am your servant.” In all dealings with the teacher’s wives, he remembered the conduct of the virtuous, honoring each of them equally, just as he would the teacher’s own wife. Upon returning from travel, he respectfully greeted the women who were relatives by marriage, behaving toward them as he would toward his own mother, always mindful that the mother holds the highest esteem. The teacher, in turn, imparted knowledge daily—teaching the Veda, the law, and the limbs of the Purāṇa. Through such devotion, the teacher removed the sins of the student who lived with him. If the teacher was able, he would provide food, wealth, and even the promise of heaven, instructing up to ten students in righteousness. Among these, the gift of knowledge was reserved for Brahmins; for others, it was bestowed as previously prescribed. The teacher guided the students gently, saying, “Study, please,” and “Let there be a pause,” directing their learning with care. Once purified by three breaths, the student was deemed worthy to utter the sacred syllable “Om.” Every day, he began his study with a gesture of reverence to Brahman, maintaining a daily practice of learning. For if he neglected this, he would fall away from the true state of a Brahmin. Thus, in this tradition, the relationship between teacher and student was woven with respect, discipline, and the constant pursuit of knowledge and righteousness.