From Fifty Verses of Guru Devotion

The Fifty Verses of Guru Devotion [Skt: Gurupancashika; Tib: Lama Nga-chu-pa] were written in about the first century BCE and are attributed to Ashvaghosha (80? – 150? CE)..

If they like, tantric experts mirror shortcomings and flaws of the disciple. A fit way involves rising above much ceremonialism in time. [Compare Buddha's farewell sutra]

These guidelines are part of Tibetan Buddhism, also known as Vajrayana. For all that, meditating very well is better than ceremonial titbits of words and phrases, as Dogen is into also. To be well guarded in some sound ways could be a help also.

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(A guru [read: teacher] should be) stable (in his actions), cultivated (in his speech), wise, patient and honest. He should neither conceal his shortcomings, nor pretend to possess qualities he lacks. . . . (Cf No 8)

Be diligent and alert, mindful never to forget (your word of honour). (No 44 abr.)

Condense and explain in brief if you can. (No 1 abr.)

Don't promise things you are much uncertain of being able to keep. (Cf. No 35)

Exert yourself whole-heartedly never to belittle your Tantric Master (No 15 abr)

If because of sickness you are physically (unable) to bow to your guru and must do what normally would be prohibited, even without (his explicit) permission, there will be no unfortunate consequences if you have a virtuous mind. (No 45)

In your mind you can prostrate to your guru. (No. 4)

One is to serve one's guru and show him respect by obeying what he says, standing up (when he comes) and showing him to his seat - these should be done. (No. 5)

Try sensibly to avoid worldly scorn. (No 4 mod.)

Note

The verses have been arranged alphabetically here. What is inserted in round brackets, follow the tradition. Insertions in square brackets are by T. K. (autumn 2005).

There is a commentary to the work online, from the Lama Yeshe Wisdom Archive.
[www.lamayeshe.com/otherteachers/dhargyey/50verses_long.PDF]

Added Thought

To love oneself well enough is not contradictory to what Mahayana Buddhism teaches.