Let me first offer my Loving Pranam at the divine feet of all teachers on the occasion of the Teacher's Day (5th September)
In Sanskrit, we use words शिष्य and शिस्त for Disciple/Student and Discipline. In Sanskrit, both the words are formed from the root (धातु) "शष्". Interestingly in English Disciple and Discipline share the common root from Latin, that is "Disciplinia".
Now, what is 'शिस्त/Discipline'?
In Sanskrit 'शष्' in this context is to mould behaviour. Here the subject is 'Student' whose behaviour is being moulded, and the outcome of the process is 'Discipline'. Therefore, the behaviour of the 'Student' on the completion of the process of study is called 'Discipline'.
Who is 'शिक्षक'/Teacher?
"शिर्षस्थ शिष्य इति शिक्षकः"
Who has mastered the discipline i.e. who is on the top in demonstrating the discipline is called "शिक्षक/Teacher". A teacher has to be a Student (शिर्षस्थ शिष्य) for his entire life.
Who is 'आचार्य'/Principal?
"यत् प्रतिष्ठति आदर्श चर्या इति आचार्यः"
One who establishes the ideal behaviour, i.e. sets examples by his/her behaviour and actions.
- by Chetan Bhatt
