Ep. 211: Gary Lachman on Maurice Nicoll, Gurdjieff, Jung, Swedenborg & Waking Up to Reality

Jul 22, 2024

Renowned writer Gary Lachman discusses Maurice Nicoll's teachings blending Jung, Gurdjieff, and Swedenborg, exploring dream diaries, sacred sexuality, and esoteric Christianity. Reflects on Nicoll's relevance today, Gurdjieff Foundation, controversial insights, and personal experiences. Touches on social media addiction, lockdown reflections, metaphors, altered states of consciousness, and self-discipline techniques.

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Intro

00:00 • 2min

Exploring the Life and Work of Maurice Nicoll

02:02 • 25min

Exploring Connections Between Maurice Nicoll, Gurdjieff, and Jung

26:59 • 16min

Transcending Limits Through Mindful Persistence

42:51 • 13min

Social Media Addiction and Political Discourse

56:03 • 4min

Reflections on Lockdown, Self-Isolation, and Collective Progress

01:00:13 • 4min

Exploring Metaphors and Esoteric Interpretations

01:04:17 • 16min

Exploration of Altered States of Consciousness and Spiritual Development Paths

01:20:13 • 25min

Exploring Self-Discipline and Focus Techniques in Challenging Times

01:45:05 • 3min

Gary Lachman, renowned writer and historian of Western esoteric tradition, shares his insights and experiences in his new book, Maurice Nicoll: Forgotten Teacher of the Fourth Way. This book delves into the life and teachings of Maurice Nicoll, a relatively obscure yet fascinating figure who bridged the ideas of Carl Jung, G.I. Gurdjieff, and Immanuel Swedenborg. Gary elaborates on the principles of the Fourth Way, developed by Gurdjieff, which integrates methods from various spiritual traditions to cultivate a higher state of consciousness in everyday life.

Exploring Nicoll’s contributions, Gary discusses the implications of his extensive dream diaries and his unique approach to sacred sexuality. He highlights how Nicoll’s early work with Jung and later fascination with Swedenborg influenced his spiritual development and teachings, enriching his interpretation of esoteric Christianity. The conversation reflects on the relevance of Nicoll’s teachings in today’s world, considering the contemporary spiritual landscape and the ongoing quest for personal development and higher consciousness.

Gary also shares his personal experiences and anecdotes from his involvement in the Gurdjieff Foundation, offering listeners a firsthand account of the practical application of the Fourth Way principles. He explores the controversial and lesser-known aspects of Nicoll’s work, including his radical insights that have made a significant impact on his followers and the spiritual community.

In a stimulating conversation, Gary and Jason bridge historical esoteric practices with modern spiritual exploration, offering a profound understanding of Maurice Nicoll’s contributions to the Fourth Way and beyond. They discuss the importance of self-remembering and the harmonious development of man, highlighting the enduring significance of Nicoll’s teachings in the pursuit of higher consciousness. Enjoy the show!

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