First of all, many people who take the martial arts often look at a Sensei as a spiritual leader is a Sensei really suppose to be something like a Rabbi, Shaman, Rev., Priests, etc.?

It seems people in the western martial arts place a Sensei on a spiritual leader on a pedestal? I realize a Sensei takes a father type role in Japan. But that is more mechanical in terms of welfare of the students, and the responsibility of the Sensei. But that is far below the idea that the Sensei is a spiritual guide and leader that should be venerated and often responded as holy men for their wisdom-which seems to happen in the west.

Does anyone know why? Or can explain it? Does it happen in Japan?

And what is the true role of a Sensei as conceived by the Japanese?