Contrary to the common Hindu teaching, the Buddha taught that although this would necessarily be the slower path, still it was possible for anyone to attain Nirvana (as a Pacceka Buddha) by relying on himself alone and remaining independent of any master's help. And his statement to his personal disciples is significant: "Treat my doctrine as your Teacher when I am dead."

-- Notebooks Category 1: Overview of the Quest > Chapter 3: Independent Path > # 272