The Diamond Approach: An Introduction to the Teachings of A. H. Almaas

Description

A revised and expanded edition of the definitive guide to the Diamond Approach, the modern contemplative practice that integrates psychology and spirituality and emphasizes the importance of self-inquiry. The Diamond Approach has been developed and taught over the last forty-five years by Hameed Ali, who is known chiefly by his pen name, A. H. Almaas. This book, the first to offer a full overview of the Diamond Approach, is now revised and expanded with a new foreword by Almaas, a new preface by the author, and a new chapter that explores the most recent developments in Almaas's teaching and practice methods. Author John Davis offers a rich, compelling introduction to the unique spiritual tradition that philosopher Ken Wilber recommends as "the most balanced of the widely available spiritual psychologies/therapies." Influenced by ancient traditions such as Sufism and Buddhism as well as by modern psychology, the Diamond Approach is particularly well-suited to twenty-first century seekers who embrace both spirituality and science. Beginning with an account of his own work with the Diamond Approach, Davis proceeds to outline the tradition's central practice of Inquiry, a form of open-ended exploration of present-moment experience akin to mindfulness practice. From there, he launches readers into an exploration of metaphysical concepts such as soul, space, Essence, self-realization, and the dimensions of Being. Complex yet concise, profound yet accessible, The Diamond Approach offers readers bold new perspectives on reality and human potential.

JOHN DAVIS has been a student of the Diamond Approach since its inception in 1975. As an ordained Diamond Approach teacher, he works with individual students, leads groups throughout the United States, directs a teacher-training seminary program, and teaches courses through the Diamond Approach Online. He also guides wilderness retreats through the School of Lost Borders and taught psychology at Naropa University and at Metropolitan State College of Denver for over thirty years.

"The work of A. H. Almaas places him among the greatest psychologists/spiritual teachers alive today. His brilliant vision of the human psyche embraces our Being from early development to the highest realms of spirit. From this he then offers a new language and direct approach for awakening to this manifold nature."-Jack Kornfield, author of A Path with Heart, coauthor of Seeking the Heart of Wisdom "I myself can recommend the Diamond Approach as probably the most balanced of the widely available spiritual psychologies/therapies."-Ken Wilber, author of A Brief History of Everything and The Integral Vision "This is the first book to bring the main ideas of the Diamond Approach together in one place. That makes it an invaluable resource for every serious student of consciousness and psychology."-Sherry Ruth Anderson, coauthor of The Feminine Face of God and The Cultural Creatives