Some spiritual organizations have a system where the teacher (or guru) says things that are unpleasant (things that people don't want to face) to shake the ego of newcomers, in order to quickly eliminate their ego. I have witnessed this in several organizations, and as far as I know, all of them have failed, leaving a strange, sarcastic atmosphere in the organization. This creates an invisible hierarchy, making it difficult for some people to oppose it, even if the organization claims to be based on equality.

First, the teacher (or guru) becomes strange and sarcastic. Then, the disciples who follow the teacher adopt the same attitude towards their juniors. As a result, it seems that they do not truly eliminate the ego. Some people may eliminate their ego through this, but others are left with a sarcastic feeling. This then becomes the basis of the hierarchy.

Furthermore, what is particularly noticeable in such organizations is that when a person becomes emotional and explodes, it is used as an "excuse" that "this is just pointing out the ego," leading them to get stuck in a dogma that hides the fact that their own meditation is not deepening. Even when they are irritated and angry, they look for "excuses," and even though they have not truly eliminated their ego, they end up rising to a leadership position over time.

Whenever I encounter such situations, I always think, "This is annoying." It would be simpler to just say the essence of the matter. Or, I think it would be better if everyone meditated together. If people meditate, those who still have their ego will realize it themselves. I don't think that such a complicated method of pointing out and bringing out the ego is effective for many people. I think that even if they do that, they will only be seen as strange teachers (gurus). This is especially noticeable in modern times.

As a result, a hierarchy is created in the organization. While it may somewhat eliminate the ego, the creation of a hierarchy is more problematic, as those who entered earlier become superior, and others are forced to follow them. This is difficult to resolve, and it is said that Buddha did not create a hierarchy. However, when a senior-junior hierarchy is created in a spiritual organization, it is no longer a true spiritual level, and those who entered earlier can exert their influence, hindering spiritual growth. This is also a point that I find "annoying."

Ultimately, even if you try to point out someone's ego, the effect is limited, and it can create an unnatural hierarchy, or people who belong to a group may develop a sarcastic tendency. Therefore, I don't think it's a very good approach.