Self-inquiry is most often tricky if our mind is not clear and our inquiry is not honest. The mind usually finds devious ways to interpret our thoughts and actions that are convenient for the ego, that just wants to feel safe and is willing to do anything for achieving that end.
It will be easier for the others (especially students) to assess the progress of the teacher. However threatening that might seem (if you identify with the “teacher” role), there is a compelling need for the students because their growth and evolution depends upon how far the teacher has moved ahead in his or her own process.
If a yoga teacher is imperfect (which we all are), does that give the person a license to do anything driven by one’s impulsive tendencies?
How much of his gross imperfections and manipulations are we willing to put up with? For how long? And how much is too much?
As a student, are you able to perceive the thin line between the humanness of the teacher and inhuman behaviour?
Did you listen to your intuition and act by it or did you choose to look away from the inconvenient truth?
Why did you behave that way? What was your motivation or fear?
What repercussions did your actions have on yourself and others?
Traditionally, a student is asked to judge for oneself the yogyata (fitness) of a teacher to teach or lead you in your yogic path (for that matter, even in the field of traditional (Indian/Eastern art forms). We only keep hearing of the teacher “testing” the student’s commitment or faith, but do you know each serious student is actually expected to test the teacher’s authority? Remeber, traditionally the students lived with the teacher for many years that gave them ample opportunities to observe the teacher in varied situations and roles!
The teacher, through his actions, behaviour and way of living, is supposed to instill faith in the student. It is certainly not about mere physical, mental or intellectual prowess or by “owning” a legacy through accidents of birth. It is actions, Karma! Only actions determine the yogyata – suitability of a teacher to fuifill that role – nothing else, really!