Q: Why do I need a mentor in Buddhism?

A: A teacher or mentor in Buddhism is one who leads and connects people to the Law, teaching them that the Law on which they should depend exists within their own lives. The disciples in turn seek the mentor, who embodies and is one with the Law. Looking to the mentor as a model, they exert themselves in their Buddhist practice. In this way, they lead a life that allows them to master their minds.

In other words, the existence of a mentor—one who embodies and lives in accord with the Law and teaches people about their vast inner potential—is indispensable for attaining Buddhahood in this lifetime. (Ikeda Sensei, The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, pp. 40–41)