When Shadow Meets the Bodhisattva: The Challenging Transformation of a Modern Guru

Renowned spiritual teacher Andrew Cohen shares his insights into the failure of his organization EnlightenNext and a new vision for modern spirituality based on the wisdom of the lessons he learned. He explains the necessity of the guru in spiritual practice and exposes the dysfunctions of the traditional guru-disciple model. He also shares how his teachings have evolved and sheds light on the art of communicating beyond ego and unleashing the co-creative power of our shared collective intelligence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 292 pages
Publication date: 02 March 2023
Publisher: Inner Traditions Bear and Company

Renowned spiritual teacher Andrew Cohen's journey after his public fall from grace in 2013 was a profound one. He disappeared from view and embarked on a transformative journey of introspection and self-discovery. After years of intense reflection, Cohen shares his insights into the failure of his organization EnlightenNext, including his own responsibility for its downfall. He also presents a new vision for modern spirituality, drawing from the lessons he learned during his dark night of the soul.

The author begins by detailing his spiritual initiation, his rapid rise to guruhood, and the explosive growth of his spiritual community worldwide. However, just as the community reached its peak, it experienced a dramatic collapse, leaving his students lost, bitter, angry, and confused. Cohen shares his gripping spiritual odyssey, navigating through the heights of illumination, the depths of existential ashes, and the underworld of inner darkness.

Through his introspection, Cohen gained valuable insights into the nature of the guru and the traditional guru-disciple model. He discusses his discussions with spiritual leaders such as Ken Wilber, Diane Musho Hamilton, Doshin Roshi, Jeffrey Kripal, and Patricia Albere, revealing how the issues he faced are profoundly relevant to the spiritual community as a whole. Cohen also shares how his teachings have evolved, emphasizing the importance of communicating beyond ego and unleashing the co-creative power of our shared collective intelligence.

In conclusion, Andrew Cohen's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of introspection. His insights into the failure of EnlightenNext and his vision for modern spirituality offer valuable lessons for individuals seeking enlightenment and spiritual growth. By embracing the wisdom of the lessons he learned, Cohen believes that we can initiate enlightened change in this world in crisis.

Weight: 481g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781644115909