noun
great master; leading authority; revered teacher
A respectful title for a highly accomplished master or authority, especially in traditional arts, scholarship, or spiritual disciplines.
彼は茶道の宗師として知られている。
He is known as a great master of the tea ceremony.
その宗師の教えは多くの弟子に受け継がれた。
The revered teacher's teachings were passed down to many disciples.
From 宗 (sect, school, origin) and 師 (teacher, master). The combination suggests a master who is the source or foundation of a tradition.