The Hired Boatmen

 

The Hired Boatmen

By Janpha Thadphoothon

I decided to write this blog post as a reflection on the latest National Teachers' Day in Thailand, dated January 16th, 2025. Before I began my career as a professional teacher (lecturer), I often heard the saying that teachers are nothing but hired boatmen. I have been perplexed by this saying. After decades of being in the profession, I slowly began to realize the profound meaning of this old adage. Let me tell you what I believe the meaning of teachers as the hired boatmen truly is.

Image: OpenAI. (2025), The hired boatmen.'

In Thailand, the role of a teacher is often compared to that of a "hired boatman," someone whose sole job is to ferry passengers across the river. I am sure you would agree with me that this metaphor beautifully captures the essence of teaching as a selfless act. The teacher, like the boatman, does not claim ownership of the passengers’ journey but merely ensures their safe passage to the other side. This perspective emphasizes the humility and service-oriented nature of educators. However, as we explore this idea further, I think it is worth examining how Hermann Hesse’s Siddhartha enriches our understanding of the ferryman’s role, offering a deeper philosophical and spiritual dimension to this metaphor.

The Ferryman in Siddhartha

In Siddhartha, the ferryman, Vasudeva, is not merely a transporter of passengers but a guide and a keeper of wisdom. As we know, Vasudeva’s role goes beyond taking Siddhartha across the river; he becomes a mentor who helps Siddhartha achieve spiritual enlightenment. It is well known that Hesse drew inspiration from Eastern philosophies, particularly Buddhism and Hinduism, and this influence is evident in the way the river and the ferryman symbolize interconnectedness and transformation.

The river, which is central to Vasudeva’s character, represents the flow of life, time, and the unity of existence. I must admit that this idea resonates deeply with me. The river’s constancy and perpetual movement remind us that life is ever-changing yet intrinsically whole. Similarly, a teacher’s role is not limited to imparting knowledge but also to guiding students toward understanding the broader flow of life.

Teachers as Ferrymen

In my opinion, the comparison between teachers and ferrymen is not just metaphorical but also profoundly practical. Both roles involve enabling transitions. Teachers help students cross from ignorance to knowledge, from uncertainty to confidence, and from confusion to clarity. My conviction is that this responsibility requires not only technical expertise but also emotional intelligence and patience.

They say that a good teacher, like a skilled ferryman, knows how to balance their role. Just as a ferryman must understand the river’s currents to navigate safely, teachers must recognize the unique needs and capabilities of each student. Experts say that the best educators are those who adapt their teaching methods to the "flow" of their students' learning styles. This adaptability is what makes the journey meaningful and enriching for both the teacher and the learner.

The Symbolism of Crossing

Crossing a river is often seen as a metaphor for transformation, and I like the idea of associating this act with the educational process. In Siddhartha, each ferry crossing marks a significant transition in Siddhartha’s spiritual journey. Likewise, every stage of learning represents a milestone in a student’s development. I know you would agree with me that education is not merely about reaching the destination but about the growth that occurs during the journey.

Nevertheless, it is my belief that the role of a teacher extends beyond the crossing itself. Like Vasudeva, who listens to the river and shares its wisdom with Siddhartha, teachers must listen to their students and guide them with insight and compassion. The news has it that modern educators are increasingly adopting student-centered approaches, which align closely with this philosophy. By focusing on the learners’ needs and experiences, teachers create an environment where students feel empowered to take charge of their own learning.

Reflections on Selflessness

One of the most admirable qualities of the ferryman in Siddhartha is his selflessness. Vasudeva does not seek recognition or reward; he finds fulfillment in his service to others and his connection to the river. I guess it is this selflessness that makes the ferryman a powerful symbol for teachers. While society often overlooks the contributions of educators, their impact is profound and enduring.

People say that teaching is a thankless job, but I somehow think that this perspective misses the point. The true reward of teaching lies in the joy of seeing students grow and succeed. In Thailand, the idea of the "hired boatman" reinforces this sentiment. Teachers are not in the profession for personal gain; their purpose is to help others reach their potential. This altruistic mindset is what makes the teaching profession so noble and inspiring.

Lessons from the River

The river in Siddhartha teaches many lessons, one of which is the importance of living in the present moment. As Siddhartha listens to the river, he realizes that life is not a series of disconnected events but a unified whole. I am not an expert, but I have read somewhere that mindfulness—the practice of being fully present—is essential for both teaching and learning. By fostering mindfulness, teachers can create a more focused and meaningful educational experience.

Another lesson from the river is the acceptance of impermanence. The river is always changing, yet it remains the same. Similarly, education is a dynamic process, constantly evolving to meet the needs of a changing world. My conviction is that teachers must embrace this impermanence and be willing to adapt their methods and perspectives. By doing so, they can remain effective and relevant in their roles as guides and mentors.

Bridging Cultures and Ideas

I like the idea of exploring the parallels between Thai cultural metaphors and Western literary works. The concept of the "hired boatman" and the ferryman in Siddhartha may originate from different cultural contexts, but they share a common theme: the act of guiding others toward growth and enlightenment. This cross-cultural connection highlights the universality of teaching as a transformative process.

What we all know and agree upon is that education is a journey, not a destination. Both the Thai metaphor and Hesse’s novel remind us that the teacher’s role is to facilitate this journey, allowing students to discover their own paths. By embracing the spirit of the ferryman, teachers can inspire their students to listen to the "rivers" of their own lives and find their own truths.

The metaphor of the "hired boatman" provides a compelling lens through which to view the teaching profession. In Siddhartha, Vasudeva’s role as a ferryman offers profound insights into the qualities of a true guide: patience, humility, and the ability to listen. I must admit that these qualities are just as relevant for teachers today as they were for the ferryman in Hesse’s novel.

It is my personal belief that teaching, like ferrying, is a sacred responsibility. By helping others navigate the rivers of life, teachers contribute not only to individual growth but also to the collective betterment of society. As we reflect on the parallels between the Thai concept of the "hired boatman" and the ferryman in Siddhartha, let us honor the quiet but transformative power of educators. They are the unsung heroes who make the crossings possible, guiding us toward a brighter and more enlightened future.

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand. Janpha Thadphoothon also holds a certificate of Generative AI with Large Language Models issued by DeepLearning.AI.