The term is distinguished from other forms of gurus, such as musical instructors, scriptural teachers, parents, and so on.
[citation needed] According to Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, a Hindu satguru is always a sannyasin, an unmarried renunciate,[1] but not all writers include this stricture.
[3] The words sant and satguru were prominently used in the spiritual ideology of Kabir in the 15th century.
[4][full citation needed] Kabir wrote "Devi dewal jagat mein, kotik poojey koye.
In one of Kabir's songs the satguru is described as the real sadhu: He is the real Sadhu, who can reveal the form of the Formless to the vision of these eyes; Who teaches the simple way of attaining Him, that is other than rites or ceremonies; Who does not make you close the doors, and hold the breath, and renounce the world; Who makes you perceive the Supreme Spirit wherever the mind attaches itself; Who teaches you to be still in the midst of all your activities.
Ever immersed in bliss, having no fear in his mind, he keeps the spirit of union in the midst of all enjoyments.
[citation needed] Swami Shankar Purushottam Tirtha quoted the Yoga Vasistha regarding the "real preceptor" (satguru): A real preceptor is one who can produce blissful sensation in the body of the disciple by their sight, touch, or instructions.
In the Japji Sahib he writes "Ek onkar, satguru prasad", which means "there is one creator, [this knowledge I have learned] by the grace of God".