Unleashing Your Inner Guide: Becoming an Effective Intuitive Coach

Hello, lovely souls! Today, we embark on a journey to explore the realm of intuitive coaching. If you’re drawn to this path, you already possess a deep well of wisdom within you. Like a tuning fork resonating with The Universe’s frequencies, you’re ready to assist others in discovering their own inner truths. 

Welcome to the world of intuitive coaching, where you’ll learn to harness your intuitive abilities to guide others toward their highest potential.

Embrace Your Intuition

First and foremost, embrace your intuition wholeheartedly. Your intuition is your superpower, your inner compass – a direct channel to The Divine. It’s the subtle whispers from The Universe guiding you on your journey pouring into your Spirit and soul. Trust it. Believe in it. When you embrace your intuition, you unlock your potential as an intuitive coach, along with all of your goodness.

Cultivate Self-Awareness

To be an effective intuitive coach, it’s essential to cultivate Self-awareness. The journey within is as crucial as your connection to the external world. Understand your own strengths, weaknesses, and triggers. 

The clearer your own inner landscape, the better you can navigate the landscapes of others. Learn to allow and then release your emotions through crying, writing, rituals, and more.

Deepen Your Connection with Spirituality

Intuitive coaching is inherently spiritual. Regardless of your religious beliefs, connecting to a higher power or the multidimensional currents running throughout The Cosmos is vital. Meditation, prayer, rituals, and any uplifting and inwardly focused spiritual practice can help you deepen your expansion and your connection to the All That Is. It’s in moments of inner connection and divine alignment that your intuitive insights will flow effortlessly.

Hone Your Intuitive Tools

Your intuition speaks through various channels, such as gut feelings, dreams, symbols, and energy vibrations. You might even feel a tingling up your spine or on the top of your head. 

Develop your awareness of these subtle, sometimes overwhelming signs. 

Explore dream interpretation, study symbols and archetypes, and practice energy work. My Personality Cards and The Shankara Oracle can help you, too! 

The more tools you have at your disposal, the better equipped you are to assist others on their journey.

Empathize and Listen Actively

Effective intuitive coaching is about empathy, boundaries, and active listening. Empathizing with your clients allows you to connect on a deep level. Listen not only to their words but also to the energy behind them. Often, what’s left unsaid carries the most significant messages.

You might also find that your body gives you helpful messages about your clients. 

While empathy is wonderful, be careful to have boundaries as you sense into and then feel the emotions of your clients. 

Sometimes, it’s okay to be more intellectual about your concern for your clients, in the form of gentle compassion.

Create a Sacred Space

As an intuitive coach, it’s essential to create a sacred space for your sessions – one that uplifts you into The Heavens. This can be a physical location or a mental space where both you and your client feel safe and open. Surround yourself with elements that inspire tranquility and openness, such as crystals, incense, or soothing music. 

Add small (even huge) statues of your favorite deities or a ritual space like an altar. 

These additions to your sacred space can elevate your Being and superpowers, helping you to be present and powerful for your clients. 

Ask Thoughtful And Provoking Questions

Your questions are some of your most potent tools in sessions with clients. Craft questions that encourage introspection, Self-honesty, and Self-discovery. Open-ended questions invite your clients to delve deeper into their thoughts and feelings, leading them to profound insights.

Look into the hearts of your clients to source the questions and observations that will help them unlock their minds and free their hearts & souls.

Embrace Non-Judgment

Intuitive coaching is a judgment-free zone. Your role is not to impose your beliefs but to introduce new paradigms to your clients, while guiding them to explore their own truths. Embrace diversity of thought, and respect each individual’s unique path.

Even if you do not agree with a challenging client, find pathways to help them see the challenges in their thoughts, belief systems, and actions.

Continuous Growth

Intuitive coaching is a journey of continuous growth. Stay curious, keep learning, and refine your skills. Seek mentors, attend workshops, and read books to expand your knowledge.

Most importantly, look within and cry often. The more you release, the more space you’ll have to love and nourish your clients. 

Practice Self-Care

Finally, lovingly care for your Self often. The energy exchanged within intuitive coaching sessions can be intense, even debilitating. Regularly recharge your own spiritual batteries through Self-care practices like meditation, yoga, rituals, Shankara Sessions, or spending time in nature.

Being an effective intuitive coach is a profound and transformative journey. It will open you up, almost gut you, if you’re not careful. 

This type of work is about knowing your Self so you can be effective for your clients. It’s also about harnessing your inner wisdom to guide others toward their own. 

As you embrace your intuition, cultivate Self-honesty and Self-awareness, and deepen your connection to your deities. Chant and pray often – and always have faith in your Self and your client. 

Over time, you’ll find that your intuitive coaching practice flourishes, not only in how it helps others, but how it helps you see your Self more clearly. 

May your path be illuminated by the light strewn throughout The Cosmos, and may you, in turn, help others shine brighter on their journey to Self-discovery. 

Embrace this calling, dear soul, and let your light shine! The world needs you!

By the way, I would love to be your coach.

With love and light,

Paul Wagner (Krishna Kalesh)

You will love The Shankara Oracle as it will take you deeply within and connect you with your pure, divine Self.

In the boundless expanse of our universe, there’s a delicate yet powerful membrane, a kind of divine fabric, that holds the key to all transformation. This isn’t just a philosophical concept; it’s a living, breathing boundary between light and its counterpart—where shadows linger, where uncertainties brew. But don’t be fooled—this membrane isn’t a barrier; it’s a sacred space where the most profound alchemy unfolds. It’s here, in this liminal space, that we can truly come into our own power as spiritual alchemists, turning leaden experiences into golden wisdom, pain into profound healing, and darkness into radiant light.

Unraveling the Divine Membrane

Picture this: a veil, soft yet impenetrable, hovering between two worlds. On one side, there’s light—brilliant, warm, and pulsating with divine love. On the other, there’s a space where light seems to hide, perhaps distorted by fear, pain, and confusion. The divine membrane is the meeting place of these two realms, a dynamic threshold where everything is possible, and where the dance of creation and transformation takes center stage.

This membrane is far from static. It pulses with the rhythm of life, the heartbeat of the cosmos, allowing energy and consciousness to flow freely between light and shadow. Here, in this living boundary, the alchemy of transmutation begins—turning what is not yet light into the most radiant light imaginable.

Transmutation: The Alchemy of Spirit

Now, let’s talk about transmutation—a process that goes far beyond the physical act of changing one substance into another. In the divine membrane, transmutation is about transforming the very essence of something—be it a thought, an emotion, or an experience—shifting it from shadow into light, from fear into love.

Think of it like this: you’re the alchemist, the spiritual artist, standing at the edge of this membrane. You take what feels heavy, what seems hopeless, and through a sacred process of intention, surrender, and love, you invite the light to do its work. And here’s the kicker—the light doesn’t just illuminate; it transforms. What was once a source of pain or confusion is restructured into something beautiful, something golden, something you can carry forward with grace.

But it all starts with acknowledgment. You’ve got to see the shadow, name it, embrace it without judgment. That’s the first step. Then, with an open heart, you offer it to the light—not with a sense of control, but with trust. You surrender to the divine intelligence that knows exactly how to weave this shadow into the fabric of light.

Pain as a Veil: The Forgotten Divine

Here’s the truth: pain can be blinding. When you’re in the thick of it, it’s easy to forget that you’re more than your suffering. You are, in fact, the embodiment of what the Divine longs to experience. Yet, amid pain, we often lose sight of our true nature. We become so wrapped up in our stories of loss, fear, or betrayal that we forget the fundamental truth: we are vessels of divine light, here to transform and be transformed.

This divine membrane, the very space where light meets shadow, is not just a concept—it’s a living, breathing reality within each of us. When you’re caught in the grip of pain, remember that you have access to this membrane. It’s the sacred space where you can reclaim your power, where you can take that very pain and offer it up for transmutation. And in that act, you don’t just heal—you empower yourself, and in turn, you empower the world.

Mastering the Membrane: Your Alchemical Journey

Mastery of the divine membrane isn’t about control—it’s about understanding and alignment. It’s about realizing that you are not just a participant in the dance of life but a co-creator. Every thought you think, every emotion you feel, every action you take is a brushstroke on the canvas of your reality.

When you operate from this understanding, the membrane becomes a tool, a gateway, through which you can channel light into every area of your life. The shadows that once seemed overwhelming become opportunities for growth and transformation. And with each act of transmutation, you move closer to the truth of who you are—a being of light, a living expression of the Divine.

In this process, empowerment doesn’t come from a place of ego or force; it comes from trust, from the deep knowing that you are supported by forces far greater than yourself. You are never alone in this membrane—angels, guides, and the very heartbeat of the cosmos are with you, co-creating every miracle.

The Birthplace of Miracles

Miracles—those wondrous, inexplicable events that defy logic—are born in this membrane. But here’s the secret: miracles are not random acts of grace; they are deliberate, divine decisions made within this sacred space. The divine intelligence that pervades the membrane listens to your intentions, aligns them with the highest good, and when the time is right, births a miracle.

It might be a healing, a profound insight, or a life-altering event that shifts your entire trajectory. Whatever form it takes, the miracle is a testament to the power of the divine membrane and the alchemical process that unfolds within it.

Stepping Into Your Role as an Alchemist

The beauty of this journey is that it’s available to all of us. You don’t need to be a seasoned mystic or a trained healer to engage with the divine membrane. Every moment, every breath is an opportunity to choose light over shadow, love over fear, truth over illusion.

So, as you walk your path, remember that the divine membrane is always with you. It is within you, around you, and through you. It is the space where you can bring your doubts, your fears, your pain, and see them transformed. And in doing so, you don’t just change yourself—you change the world.

You are an alchemist, dear soul, in the truest sense. Step into this role with courage and faith. Trust in the process of transmutation and know that within this membrane, miracles are not just possible—they are your birthright. The light is always waiting to be revealed, and you are the one with the power to unveil it.

In this dance between light and shadow, remember: you are the artist, the creator, the divine alchemist. And in your hands, all things are possible.

In this age of infinite information, we find ourselves surrounded by teachings that have the power to transform our very essence. Buddhism, Hinduism, and Advaita Vedanta offer us treasures that illuminate the path to enlightenment, guiding us toward our true selves. These ancient wisdoms, cultivated over millennia, are beacons of light in the journey toward self-realization, offering insights that can dissolve the illusions of the ego and bring us into alignment with the Divine.

Central to the teachings of Advaita Vedanta is the concept of non-duality, or the idea that the self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are one and the same. This philosophy, deeply rooted in the Upanishads, teaches that the myriad forms and phenomena we perceive in the world are nothing more than illusions (Maya), masking the underlying oneness of all existence. The great sage Adi Shankaracharya, a primary proponent of Advaita Vedanta, emphasized the importance of discerning the real from the unreal—Viveka. This practice of discrimination between the transient and the eternal helps one peel away the layers of illusion and ego, revealing the true self that is beyond all duality and separateness.

In the context of modern spirituality, these teachings are often lost amidst a sea of new-age ideologies that prioritize imaginative experiences over genuine inner exploration. The idea that we are all connected to an underlying oneness becomes distorted when individuals allow their fantasies to take the lead, mistaking their personal desires and projections for divine insight. In Advaita Vedanta, the realization of non-duality is not an intellectual concept to be understood or a fantasy to be conjured—it is an experiential truth that arises from deep meditation and self-inquiry, leading to the dissolution of the ego and the merging with the infinite.

Similarly, in the teachings of the Pali Canon, which forms the doctrinal foundation of Theravada Buddhism, the emphasis is on direct experience and the understanding of the true nature of reality. The Buddha taught the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path as a means to liberate oneself from suffering (Dukkha), which arises from clinging to illusions and false identities. The practice of mindfulness (Sati) and the cultivation of wisdom (Paññā) are central to the Buddhist path, leading to the realization of the impermanence (Anicca), suffering, and non-self (Anatta) inherent in all things. These teachings encourage a rigorous examination of one’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences, cutting through the delusions that the mind creates.

In contrast to the authentic spiritual paths laid out in Advaita Vedanta and the Pali Canon, many new-age influencers today are leaving their bodies with no consciousness, letting their imaginations take over their channels and connections with the Divine and their inner masters—all in order to edify themselves and their delusions. This trend reflects a disturbing shift away from the disciplined practice and inner work required for true spiritual growth, replacing it with a superficial engagement with spirituality that seeks egoistic validation rather than genuine enlightenment.

It is crucial to understand that true spiritual teachings are not about gratifying the ego or indulging in elaborate fantasies. Instead, they guide us to transcend the ego and awaken to the truth that lies beyond the mind’s constructs. The teachings of Advaita Vedanta, for instance, remind us that any perception of separation between the self and the Divine is an illusion. The journey to self-realization is not about acquiring new beliefs or experiences but about shedding the layers of ignorance that obscure our true nature.

Similarly, the Buddha’s teachings in the Pali Canon emphasize the importance of staying grounded in reality, cultivating awareness and insight into the true nature of existence. The practice of Vipassana, or insight meditation, is a powerful tool for observing the mind’s tendencies to fabricate stories and attachments, leading the practitioner to a direct understanding of the impermanent and selfless nature of all phenomena. By grounding ourselves in these time-tested practices, we can navigate the spiritual path with clarity and purpose, avoiding the pitfalls of self-deception and egoic fantasy.

But here’s the paradox: if you’re going to indulge in something that pulls you away from true spiritual work, you might as well immerse yourself in the physical world—in sex, fantasy, and materialism. Why? Because, in this physical immersion, you will inevitably encounter suffering. And it is through suffering that the soul finds clarity. Pain and hardship are the crucibles through which we are purified, our illusions burned away, leaving us with the undeniable truth of who we are.

True spirituality is not about escaping the human experience or creating elaborate stories to comfort the ego. It is about embracing the raw, sometimes painful, reality of life, understanding that every challenge, every setback, is a step toward awakening. Suffering, when approached with awareness, is a teacher—a harsh one, perhaps, but a teacher nonetheless.

The great teachings of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Advaita Vedanta remind us that the path to enlightenment is not a journey outward, but a journey inward. It is a path of stripping away the layers of ego and illusion, not adding more to them. It is about seeing the world as it truly is, not as we wish it to be, and finding peace and liberation within that truth.

This is why I created The Shankara Oracle. It is a tool designed to cut through the noise, to help people break away from the egoic projections, cultural manipulation, and self-deception that are so prevalent today. The Oracle serves as a guide, helping you navigate the complexities of your inner world, offering clarity where there is confusion, and bringing you back to the path of true self-realization.

I invite you to join me on this journey. My Patreon channel offers subscriptions that include free readings and more—a space where we can explore these deep truths together, free from the distractions of modern spiritual fads. Together, we can reconnect with the timeless wisdom that has guided countless souls toward liberation.

Remember, the path to the Divine is not found in the stories we tell ourselves or the fantasies we create, but in the raw, unfiltered truth of our existence. Embrace the suffering, for it is through this that you will find healing, clarity, and ultimately, the realization of your true Self.

Sending you all lots of love on this beautiful journey. May you walk the path of truth, shedding the illusions of the ego, and finding the light that resides within you.

Imagine a world where your heart radiates warmth, your spirit dances with playfulness, and you approach others with an open, eager-to-be-liked demeanor. You see the good in everyone, and in return, you hope that they see the same in you. This is the essence of what I like to call the “puppy identity.”

Those who embody this puppy identity are often the ones who greet the world with wagging tails, so to speak. They expect to be met with the same enthusiasm and affection they naturally give. But what happens when the world doesn’t respond in kind? What happens when this innate sense of warmth and goodness isn’t reciprocated, leaving the puppy feeling lost, confused, and emotionally vulnerable?

The Fragility of the Puppy Identity

The puppy identity is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s a beautiful expression of innocence, an embodiment of an open heart that yearns to connect with others in a pure and playful way. On the other, it is a fragile identity, heavily reliant on the responses of others to feel validated. 

Btw, it’s also reliant on the idea that others see The Universe as an expression of love as you might.

When the world doesn’t return the warmth the puppy extends, a cascade of emotions often follows. The puppy, expecting mutual affection, instead finds itself faced with indifference, rejection, or even hostility. This disconnect between expectation and reality can be jarring. It’s like offering a hand in friendship, only to find it left hanging, unacknowledged. The sense of emotional vulnerability is heightened, and with it comes a profound sense of shame.

This shame is not just a passing feeling; it’s a shadow that creeps in, further confusing the puppy. It gnaws at the core of self-esteem, leaving the puppy wondering what went wrong. Why wasn’t the warmth reciprocated? What is wrong with me?

The Chemical High of External Validation

At its core, the puppy identity is deeply intertwined with a need for external validation. The warmth and playfulness that the puppy exudes become a way of seeking approval, of gauging one’s worth based on how others respond. It’s a temporary state of chemical high, fueled by the positive feedback received from others. When that feedback is missing or negative, the high quickly dissipates, leaving the puppy in a state of withdrawal.

This external addiction to positive feedback is a dangerous cycle. It leads to an ever-increasing dependency on others for self-worth. The puppy becomes conditioned to seek out situations and people who might provide that elusive validation, only to be repeatedly disappointed when the world doesn’t deliver. It’s a rollercoaster of hope and despair, each high followed by an even lower low.

Moving Beyond the Puppy Identity

While the puppy identity is endearing, it is not conducive to a self-reliant, spiritually fulfilling life. The warmth and goodness that the puppy feels are not meant to be shared as a means of validation but as an expression of one’s true self, independent of others’ reactions. The puppy’s journey is to recognize that this warmth does not need to be charismatic or externally validated. It is a natural state of being that is enough in itself.

The true challenge for the puppy is to move beyond this identity, to see that the need for external validation is a temporary state, a chemical high that does not lead to lasting fulfillment. Instead, the puppy must learn to find value within itself, to recognize that the warmth it feels is a reflection of its own inner light, not something that needs to be mirrored back by others.

Embracing the Self Without Expectation

The path to spiritual fulfillment lies in embracing oneself fully, without the need for external validation. It’s about recognizing that the warmth and playfulness of the puppy identity are beautiful but transient states. They are not the foundation of self-worth. To live a self-reliant and spiritually fulfilling life, one must move beyond the puppy identity and embrace the deeper, more resilient aspects of the self.

This means cultivating a sense of inner strength that is not dependent on the reactions of others. It means finding joy in the warmth you feel, regardless of whether it is shared. It means understanding that the goodness within you is not diminished by others’ inability to recognize it.

When the puppy can let go of the need for external validation, it becomes free. Free to be playful and warm, but also free to be strong and independent. Free to experience life’s ups and downs without being thrown off balance. Free to live a life that is spiritually fulfilling and deeply rooted in self-love.

Navigating The Pros And Cons Of Puppy Syndrome

The puppy identity, with its innate sense of warmth, playfulness, and an open-hearted approach to life, can be both a blessing and a curse. On the positive side, individuals who embody this identity often find themselves naturally inclined to connect with others, exuding an infectious positivity that can brighten any room. Their optimism and eagerness to be liked can foster strong, genuine connections with people who appreciate their sincerity and open-heartedness. This ability to see the good in others and approach life with a playful spirit can make the puppy an endearing presence, someone others enjoy being around.

However, the very traits that make the puppy identity so appealing can also lead to significant challenges. The puppy’s reliance on external validation becomes a critical vulnerability. When the world does not respond with the same warmth and affection, the puppy can quickly fall into a trap of self-doubt and insecurity. This dependency on others’ reactions to feel validated can create a cycle of emotional highs and lows, where the puppy’s sense of self-worth is continually fluctuating based on external feedback. This external validation, while initially uplifting, is ultimately fleeting, leaving the puppy feeling empty and unfulfilled.

One of the primary dangers of the puppy identity is the tendency to lose oneself in the pursuit of being liked. The puppy often tailors its behavior, opinions, and actions to fit what it believes others want, sacrificing its own needs and desires in the process. This can lead to a loss of authenticity, where the puppy becomes more focused on pleasing others than on staying true to itself. Over time, this can erode the puppy’s sense of identity, as it becomes increasingly disconnected from its true self, constantly seeking approval from others.

Another significant downside is the emotional toll that repeated disappointments can take. When the puppy’s expectations of mutual affection and connection are not met, it can lead to feelings of rejection, confusion, and deep emotional pain. The puppy may begin to question its worth, wondering why it was not liked or appreciated by others. This can lead to a cycle of shame and self-blame, where the puppy internalizes these negative experiences as a reflection of its own inadequacy. The more this cycle repeats, the more the puppy’s confidence and self-esteem can be eroded, leaving it feeling vulnerable and lost.

The trap of the puppy identity lies in the false belief that others’ approval is necessary for happiness and self-worth. This belief can lead the puppy to continuously seek out new people or situations where it hopes to find the validation it craves, only to be disappointed time and again. This cycle of hope and despair can become addictive, with the puppy constantly chasing the next high of external approval, yet never finding lasting fulfillment. In this way, the puppy can lose itself repeatedly, becoming trapped in a never-ending loop of seeking validation from others.

Despite these challenges, the puppy identity is not without hope. Awareness of this pattern is the first step toward breaking free from it. By recognizing the pitfalls of relying on external validation and the emotional toll it can take, the puppy can begin to shift its focus inward, cultivating a sense of self-worth that is independent of others’ opinions. This process involves embracing one’s own warmth and playfulness as intrinsic qualities, not as tools to gain approval. By doing so, the puppy can reclaim its authenticity, finding strength in its true self rather than in the fleeting validation of others.

Ultimately, the key to overcoming the challenges of the puppy identity lies in balancing the desire for connection with a strong sense of self-reliance. The puppy can still be warm, playful, and open-hearted, but with the understanding that its value does not depend on how others respond. By cultivating this inner strength, the puppy can enjoy the connections it makes without becoming dependent on them, leading to a more stable, fulfilling, and authentic life.

Self-Reliance & Self-Mastery For The Puppy

It’s strange how life begins with such complete dependency on others. From our earliest moments, we rely entirely on those around us to shape our understanding of the world. As children, we look to our parents, teachers, and peers to tell us what is right and wrong, good or bad, and whether we are worthy of love and acceptance. This external feedback becomes the foundation of our self-concept, and we grow accustomed to measuring our worth based on how others perceive us. In these formative years, it’s natural to seek validation from those we trust, but this dependency can become a trap that follows us into adulthood.

As we mature, we often carry forward the belief that our worth is something to be determined by others. We continue to seek out validation, allowing external opinions to shape our sense of self. This can create a cycle where we are constantly looking outside ourselves for approval, reassurance, and guidance. The opinions of others become a mirror through which we view our own value, and we become trapped in a loop of seeking validation that can be difficult to break. This reliance on external sources for our sense of worth keeps us from fully stepping into our own power and recognizing the intrinsic value we possess.

Yet, there’s a paradox in this journey. As we seek validation, we may also become enamored with our own perceived magic—the qualities that make us unique, special, and worthy of admiration. We can become so caught up in the idea of our own charm or talents that we fail to see how this very mindset can dissuade us from true self-reliance and self-mastery. The focus on external validation, even when we are aware of our own strengths, can prevent us from cultivating the inner strength and independence necessary for genuine self-mastery. We may become more invested in how others see us than in developing our own inner resources and resilience.

The journey to self-reliance and self-mastery requires us to shift our focus inward, to recognize that our worth is not something that needs to be constantly affirmed by others. It involves embracing our own magic without becoming enthralled by it to the point of distraction. True self-mastery comes from understanding that while external validation can be gratifying, it is not the ultimate source of our value. By learning to rely on our own inner compass, we can break free from the cycle of dependency and step into a more empowered, authentic existence.

The Journey Ahead

The journey beyond the puppy identity is not an easy one. It requires a willingness to face the discomfort of rejection and the pain of unmet expectations. But it is a journey worth taking. For in moving beyond the need for external validation, the puppy finds something far more valuable: a sense of self that is unwavering, a spirit that is resilient, and a heart that is truly free.

In this journey, the puppy transforms. No longer dependent on the approval of others, it becomes a beacon of warmth and light, not for others to validate, but for itself. And in this transformation, the puppy discovers the true meaning of Self-reliance, Self-mastery, and spiritual fulfillment.

Side note: Truly, you might be determined to love and play in this world, no matter what. And for that, you should be commended! You might be enthralled with your own magic to the degree of it spilling all over the place, but it’s likely that you’re more so embracing of magic itself – and enjoy celebrating the love that surrounds us all. Kudos to you – for this is a selfless service to the world.

For some of us, it’s hard to believe that others aren’t as enchanted by The Universe and sharing bare and beautiful love as we are. 

Your heart’s in the right place, and that’s something to celebrate!

“The Course in Miracles” (ACIM) and Advaita Vedanta, though originating from different cultural and philosophical traditions, share several profound similarities. Both teachings aim to guide individuals toward realizing their true nature and ultimate unity with the Divine. Below are ten nearly exact similarities between these two spiritual paths:

Non-Duality

In A Course in Miracles (ACIM), non-duality is a central teaching that asserts the reality of God’s oneness and dismisses the idea of separation as mere illusion. According to ACIM, the perception of duality—of being separate from God, others, or the world—is fundamentally false. This misperception leads to suffering, as it obscures the truth of our inherent unity with the Divine. ACIM guides its students to dismantle these false beliefs, primarily through the practice of forgiveness, which reveals that all apparent separations are illusions and that only the oneness of God’s love is real. By recognizing this oneness, individuals can transcend the ego’s limitations and return to a state of peace and joy, fully aligned with God’s will.

In Advaita Vedanta, non-duality, or Advaita, is also a core concept, where it teaches that the individual self (Atman) is identical with the ultimate reality (Brahman). This tradition posits that all perceived dualities, such as the distinctions between the self and the world or between different individuals, are the result of Maya, or illusion. The belief in duality stems from ignorance (Avidya), which veils the true nature of the self. The goal in Advaita Vedanta is to realize the non-dual nature of reality, understanding that Atman and Brahman are one and the same. This realization leads to liberation (Moksha), freeing the individual from the cycle of birth and death. Both ACIM and Advaita Vedanta aim to guide the practitioner toward the dissolution of the false self and the recognition of the one true reality, though they do so through different teachings and methods.

Illusion of the World

In A Course in Miracles (ACIM), the world is portrayed as an illusion created by the mind to obscure the truth of God’s perfect love. The Course teaches that the world, as we perceive it, is a projection of the ego’s desire to maintain the illusion of separation from God. This illusory world is filled with conflict, fear, and pain, all of which stem from the belief that we are separate beings living in a material universe. However, ACIM asserts that this world is not real; it is a dream we have made to escape from the truth of our oneness with God. The purpose of the Course is to help us awaken from this dream by recognizing the illusions for what they are and choosing instead the reality of God’s love, which is eternal and unchanging.

Advaita Vedanta similarly regards the world as an illusion, referred to as Maya. According to this tradition, Maya is the cosmic force that creates the appearance of a dualistic world, making it seem as though there are separate entities and objects. This illusion is the root cause of human ignorance and suffering because it conceals the true nature of Brahman, the ultimate reality, which is non-dual and indivisible. In the state of ignorance (Avidya), individuals mistake the temporary and changing world for the ultimate truth, leading to attachment, desire, and the cycle of birth and death (Samsara). The goal in Advaita Vedanta is to see through this illusion by realizing that the self (Atman) is not separate from Brahman, thereby achieving liberation (Moksha). Both ACIM and Advaita Vedanta challenge the perception of the world as real, urging practitioners to see beyond the illusions and recognize the underlying oneness of all existence.

Role of the Ego

In A Course in Miracles (ACIM), the ego is seen as the false self, a construct of the mind that perpetuates the illusion of separation from God. The ego thrives on conflict, fear, and guilt, maintaining its existence by convincing us that we are isolated individuals living in a hostile world. ACIM teaches that the ego’s primary function is to keep us entrenched in the belief of separation, thus preventing us from experiencing the peace and joy that come from recognizing our true identity as one with God. The Course emphasizes the need to transcend the ego by choosing to see through its illusions and aligning our thoughts with the Holy Spirit, which represents the voice of love and truth. By doing so, we can dissolve the ego’s influence and return to the awareness of our oneness with God.

In Advaita Vedanta, the ego, or Ahamkara, is similarly viewed as the false sense of self that arises from identifying with the body, mind, and individual personality. This ego creates a sense of individuality and separateness, which is contrary to the non-dual reality of Brahman. The Ahamkara is responsible for the illusion of duality, leading to attachment, desires, and suffering. The path to liberation in Advaita involves recognizing that the ego is not the true self, but merely a projection of the mind. Through practices like self-inquiry (Atma Vichara) and meditation, one can discern the true self (Atman) from the ego, leading to the realization that Atman is identical with Brahman. Both ACIM and Advaita Vedanta advocate for the transcendence of the ego as a necessary step toward spiritual awakening, though they approach this goal through different methodologies and frameworks.

True Self (Atman/Christ)

In A Course in Miracles (ACIM), the true self is referred to as the “Christ” within each individual. This Christ self is our eternal, unchanging identity, united with God and completely separate from the ego’s false self. According to ACIM, the Christ within is the aspect of our being that knows only love, peace, and joy, and it is through recognizing and embracing this true self that we can experience the fullness of God’s love. The Course teaches that by identifying with the Christ within, rather than the ego, we can transcend the illusions of separation and return to a state of oneness with God. The Christ is not seen as an individual figure but as the collective, shared identity of all beings, embodying the truth of our oneness with the Divine.

In Advaita Vedanta, the concept of the true self is embodied in the term Atman. The Atman is the innermost essence of an individual, identical with Brahman, the ultimate reality. In contrast to the ego, which is seen as a false, constructed identity, the Atman is eternal, infinite, and unchanging. The realization of Atman as one with Brahman is the ultimate goal of Advaita, leading to liberation (Moksha) from the cycle of birth and death. This realization comes through direct experience and understanding that all perceived distinctions and dualities are illusory, and that the true self is beyond all forms and identities. Both ACIM and Advaita Vedanta point to the existence of a true self that is beyond the ego, and both traditions teach that recognizing this true self is key to spiritual awakening and liberation.

Forgiveness as a Path to Liberation

In A Course in Miracles (ACIM), forgiveness is central to the spiritual path and is seen as the primary means of releasing the illusions that keep us separated from God. ACIM redefines forgiveness not as overlooking wrongdoing, but as recognizing that what we perceive as harm is part of the illusion created by the ego. By forgiving, we let go of our attachment to grievances and judgments, which are rooted in the belief in separation. Forgiveness thus becomes a powerful tool for healing the mind and restoring our awareness of God’s love. Through forgiveness, we can transcend the ego’s illusions and return to a state of peace and oneness with God, where true liberation lies.

In Advaita Vedanta, while the term “forgiveness” is not emphasized in the same way, the concept of transcending the ego and its attachments plays a similar role in the path to liberation. Advaita teaches that attachment to desires, grievances, and the ego’s sense of individuality are the main obstacles to realizing the true self (Atman). Liberation (Moksha) is achieved by recognizing and overcoming these attachments, which are rooted in the ignorance (Avidya) that causes us to identify with the ego rather than with the infinite Brahman. This process involves deep self-inquiry and the dissolution of the ego’s hold on the mind. Both ACIM and Advaita Vedanta see the release of ego-based attachments—whether through forgiveness or self-inquiry—as essential to attaining spiritual freedom and realizing our true nature.

Miracles and Grace

In A Course in Miracles (ACIM), miracles are defined as expressions of love that shift perception from fear to love, reflecting God’s grace. A miracle is not a physical event but a change in the mind, a reorientation from the illusions of the ego to the truth of God’s love. This shift in perception is seen as the work of the Holy Spirit, who guides us to see beyond the illusions of separation and fear. Miracles are a means of correcting the mind, bringing it back into alignment with God’s will, and restoring the awareness of our oneness with Him. In this sense, miracles are both the evidence of grace and the means by which we experience it.

In Advaita Vedanta, the concept of grace (Kripa) is similarly important, though it is understood differently. Kripa is the divine help that aids the seeker in the realization of the self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). While the journey to self-realization requires effort through practices like meditation and self-inquiry, it is ultimately grace that allows the seeker to transcend the ego and realize the truth. Grace is seen as the compassionate intervention of the Divine, helping to remove the veils of ignorance and reveal the oneness of all existence. Both ACIM and Advaita Vedanta recognize the importance of divine intervention—whether through miracles or grace—in guiding theultimate reality. In both traditions, these divine interventions—whether called miracles or grace—serve as essential elements in correcting the mind and revealing the truth of oneness.

Mind Training

ACIM emphasizes mind training as a crucial aspect of spiritual growth, focusing on correcting erroneous thoughts and aligning them with divine truth. The Course offers daily lessons designed to shift perception from fear to love, ultimately transforming the mind to see the world as a reflection of God’s love rather than as a source of separation and conflict. This mental discipline is seen as vital for transcending the ego and awakening to our true identity as one with God. By consistently practicing these lessons, students learn to let go of false beliefs and embrace the reality of oneness, leading to inner peace and spiritual liberation.

In Advaita Vedanta, mind training is equally important, though it is approached through practices like meditation and self-inquiry. The goal is to purify the mind (Chitta Shuddhi) so that it can discern the real (Sat) from the unreal (Asat). This involves a rigorous examination of one’s thoughts, beliefs, and attachments to uncover the truth of the self (Atman), which is identical with Brahman. By training the mind to see beyond the illusions of duality and recognize the underlying unity of all existence, the practitioner moves closer to liberation (Moksha). Both ACIM and Advaita Vedanta stress the importance of mind training in achieving spiritual awakening, though they employ different techniques and teachings to guide the seeker on this path.

Overcoming Fear

ACIM teaches that fear is a byproduct of the illusion of separation from God. It argues that all fear stems from the ego’s belief in separation and that by recognizing the illusory nature of this belief, fear can be transcended. The Course offers numerous lessons and practices designed to help students confront and dissolve their fears, ultimately revealing the underlying love and peace that are our true nature. By shifting perception from fear to love, we can overcome the ego’s grip and experience the safety and security of our oneness with God.

In Advaita Vedanta, fear is understood to arise from ignorance of one’s true nature. The belief in the ego as a separate self leads to fear of loss, death, and the unknown. However, by gaining knowledge of the self (Atma Jnana), this ignorance is dispelled, and with it, all fear. The realization that the true self (Atman) is eternal, unchanging, and one with Brahman eliminates the basis for fear, leading to a state of fearlessness and peace. Both ACIM and Advaita Vedanta address the overcoming of fear as a crucial step on the spiritual path, though they approach the issue from different philosophical perspectives.

Ultimate Goal: Liberation/Salvation

In A Course in Miracles (ACIM), the ultimate goal is the complete remembrance and return to God, which it describes as salvation. This is not a future event but a present reality that can be realized by transcending the ego and its illusions. Salvation, according to ACIM, involves recognizing that the separation from God never actually occurred and that we are, and always have been, one with Him. This realization brings about a profound sense of peace, joy, and freedom, as we awaken to the truth of our divine nature and our eternal connection with God.

In Advaita Vedanta, the ultimate goal is Moksha, or liberation, which involves realizing the oneness of the individual self (Atman) with the ultimate reality (Brahman). This liberation is achieved by overcoming ignorance (Avidya) and seeing through the illusion (Maya) of duality. When the true nature of the self is realized, the cycle of birth and death (Samsara) comes to an end, and the individual experiences a state of eternal bliss and freedom. Both ACIM and Advaita Vedanta point to the realization of oneness as the ultimate spiritual goal, though they describe it in different terms and within different conceptual frameworks.

The Illusory Nature of Time

In A Course in Miracles (ACIM), time is taught as an illusion, a construct of the ego designed to perpetuate the belief in separation. The Course teaches that true existence is eternal and timeless, and that our perception of time as linear and sequential is a distortion created by the mind. By recognizing the illusory nature of time, we can begin to experience the eternal now, where the past, present, and future are all one, and where only God’s love is real. This understanding of time is central to the Course’s teachings on forgiveness, as it allows us to release past grievances and live in the present moment.

Advaita Vedanta also views time as part of the illusion (Maya) that binds the soul to the cycle of birth and death (Samsara). In truth, according to Advaita, the self (Atman) exists beyond time, in eternal oneness with Brahman. The perception of time as linear and real is a result of ignorance (Avidya), and it is through the realization of the self’s timeless nature that one can achieve liberation (Moksha). Both ACIM and Advaita Vedanta challenge the conventional understanding of time, urging practitioners to see beyond the illusion and recognize the eternal, unchanging reality that underlies all existence.

These parallels between ACIM and Advaita Vedanta underscore their shared understanding of non-duality, the illusory nature of the world, and the path to realizing our true, divine nature. Despite their different origins, both traditions offer profound insights into the nature of reality and the journey toward spiritual liberation.

In many religious discussions today, a large number of Christians believe that all their sins are instantly forgiven the moment they accept Jesus as their personal savior. They believe that no further effort is required on their part; no change or transformation is necessary. They believe the transformation is inherent upon the “acceptance” of Jesus as their savior.

This comforting theory of redemption has many faults, one of which being its hypocritical nature. Let’s face it, most Christians, especially the hardliners, have no interest in personal growth and self-reflection. They seem more interested in projecting an image of being Saved, Special, and Chosen, which is both unfortunate and ironic.

Meanwhile, in the Hindu guru traditions, deeply rooted in Advaita Vedanta, the Guru can be of help. Finding your guru can be healing, illuminating, and helpful along the path to being “Saved” or better yet – enlightened. While the guru can take on your spirit’s ailments and karma, they continually teach you to do the deep inner work. Having the loving guidance and grace of a guru can be exponentially beneficial, but it is not a Get Out Of Karma Free card. It’s a step toward deeply knowing yourself – which is what Jesus was most likely talking about.

The Insanity of Instant Redemption

It is false to say that accepting Jesus means you’ll have complete and instant forgiveness for every sin committed without any self-improvement thereafter. The sin is already forgiven – in all traditions. There is no God or entity that will hate or condemn you for your mistakes. It doesn’t work that way.

You are always loved and forgiven. Christians like to capitalize on their doomsday ideology because it increases enrollment in their hateful cults and it’s a great marketing hook.

“Accept Jesus or go to hell! If you’re not saved, you’re not forgiven! If you’re not forgiven, you’re doomed!”

Sadly, Christians believe their ideology is the only one deemed worthy by God. They rarely have any interest in digging deeper – and beyond the nonsense they’ve been sold throughout time.

The core teachings of hardline Christianity offer false hope by suggesting that we can shift our spiritual responsibilities onto someone else, such as God. Moreover, this view undermines two things: individual development and accountability, both of which are vital to genuine spiritual progress.

In some strict Christian communities, this belief leads to surface-level religion where people only show off their faith outwardly through going to church services regularly, repeating prayers daily, or taking part in various rites frequently without getting involved in deep soul-searching processes that facilitate real inner change. Such an approach breeds complacency and self-righteousness, thereby stunting true spirituality while perpetuating ignorance born out of egoism.

Yeah, this was not at all what Jesus intended.

Eventually, upon an earnest and constant inward search, we find that we are nothing but holographic representations of a contrived Self, separate from nothing, and in no need of an ego to fulfill our spiritual desires. In fact, the ego will undermine our evolution.

Advaita Vedanta Depths: Past Sin & Future Salvation

Contrarily, Advaita Vedanta – a Hindu school of thought based on non-duality – offers profound insights into the notion of sin itself vis-à-vis karma or eternal soul journeying. According to the Advaita Vedanta school, Brahman is the ultimate reality i.e., infinite consciousness beyond the space-time continuum within which everything exists eternally, unaffected by temporal stains or blemishes (sin). Consequently, from this perspective, sins do not leave permanent marks on individual souls but represent ignorance arising out of egoism (ahamkara) – none of which will endure amid our deep self-exploration.

Sin & Karma in the Context of Advaita Vedanta

In Advaita Vedanta, sin is seen as actions arising from wrong identification with the limited self rather than the true boundless nature, thoughts, or deeds performed under its influence; while karma refers to the law of cause and effect binding spirit within the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth known as samsara (samsāra).

Karma remains one of the most central aspects of Advaita Vedantic thought, which suggests that each good/bad deed must have corresponding consequences experienced and rectified (reaped). Through those lives, the soul evolves and recognizes moksha – the state of liberation/enlightenment. Atman, being part of Brahman, is pure and cannot be sinned against, but gathers desires through ignorance, thus attaching itself to objects, becoming an ego that suffers when it fails to get what it wants. Therefore, it needs to free itself from all attachments for release.

The Fallacy of External Atonement

According to Advaita Vedanta, the idea that anyone else can save another person from their own wrongdoings reflects ignorance regarding the nature of reality since all beings are manifestations of different forms of the same consciousness; hence, no one can take responsibility for somebody else’s acts by undergoing a personal purification procedure necessary to achieve enlightenment. Each individual should cleanse himself or herself. The process of overcoming sin and karma bondage involves asking oneself questions, living ethically, meditating, and thinking about God regularly until we realize that there isn’t any “me” apart from everything else.

Walking Through Antiquated Attitudes and Suffering

To become liberated is tough; it forces us to confront those ancient tendencies and karmas. This entails meeting our attachments, sufferings, and egoic projections with full force. Advaita Vedanta says that we ought not to look for an external savior who may relieve us of these burdens but rather realize that freedom comes from within through transformation.

Self-Enquiry and Self-Realization

Who am I? The question ‘who am I?’ forms the basis for all practices in Advaita. It leads to the understanding that there is no difference between the individual self (jiva) and universal consciousness (Brahman).

Meditation and Mindfulness

Regular meditation quiets down the mind, thereby dissolving the ego’s stronghold, allowing non-duality awareness to arise naturally. While living moment by moment, one becomes mindful of egoistic patterns or reactions and then learns how not to get attached to them.

Ethical Living & Dharma

As one lives righteously according to dharma, it purifies his/her mind, thus reducing negative karma accumulation. Among such acts include being compassionate, truthful, and non-violent.

Devotion and Bhakti

Humility springs forth from surrendering oneself before the divine in any form; this also dissolves the ego identity completely. An individual can be devoted towards their personal deity, guru, or impersonal Brahman itself.

Liberation from Madness and Sinfulness

In Advaita Vedanta, the goal is not just redemption from sin but the realization of the true self beyond good/evil dichotomies. Once achieved, it brings about eternal life release where the soul merges back into infinite consciousness, i.e., Brahman. In such a liberated state, everything becomes one entity, hence a person sees universality in everything around him/her while blissful experiences (ananda) should be understood as nothing other than the real nature of selfhood. Past karmas, ancient habits, and egoistic projections fall off, thereby exposing the inherent sanctity of the soul.

Contemporary Hardline Christianity’s Hypocrisy

In contrast to the deep inner journey advocated by Advaita Vedanta, some of today’s hardline Christians put forward a simple and arguably hypocritical ideology: “Just accept Jesus because he died for your sins – you don’t have to change anything else about yourself or what you believe.” While comforting to many people, this view ignores the profoundness of spiritual transformation and growth.

Beyond Personality: Opening The Heart and Soul

When Christians talk about being saved, they often mean an intense opening up of their hearts so that they are in touch with who they really are beneath all those layers which make up personality-ego, etc. This experience can change everything as people feel loved by God unconditionally, thus finding peace within themselves while also realizing unity between themselves and God. But unfortunately, many misinterpret it, thinking that only through accepting Jesus can such things happen, not knowing that this is awakening one’s divine nature within them.

This misconception creates paradoxical situations where individuals having true spiritual awakenings continue strongly identifying themselves with Christianity. This leads to another layer of the egoic self since now they start seeing themselves as belonging to a special group whom others do not belong to due to lack of the same experience. Instead of deepening their understanding of godly things, these persons may end up falling under religious exclusivism accompanied by dogma.

The Real Essence of Spiritual Awakening

According to Advaita Vedanta, spiritual enlightenment involves piercing through the veils of the ego and realizing that the self is none other than infinite Brahman. It is important to note that this is a process that requires ongoing self-enquiry, meditation, and ethical living. This event does not occur once but grows continuously in knowledge and transforms oneself more deeply.

When people have open hearts, they touch on something deeper than themselves. Love, acceptance, and unity are not limited to any particular religion but represent divine qualities shared by all beings everywhere. One should realize this fact to go past religious boundaries towards wider spirituality.

Ego-Identification and Religious Contrivance

Many Christians, even after awakening, still identify with the religious group they have been “saved” into. This ego-identification can cause one to feel superior to others, which is the opposite of spiritual enlightenment. Genuine spiritual growth means rising above any labels or roles we identify ourselves with; it means acknowledging that there is something divine in everything, including oneself and all living creatures.

According to Advaita Vedanta philosophy, all suffering stems from the ego. If you identify yourself as being religious or having achieved certain personal goals, then you are still under ignorance, thus bound by the karma cycle forevermore until such a time when this ego disappears entirely through realization of oneness with everything else.

Embracing True Love and Acceptance

Genuinely awakened individuals manifest love and acceptance universally without discrimination towards anything whatsoever. This implies going past our usual tendency of loving only those who share similar views as ours but rather recognizing each person we meet along life’s journey as being nothing less than God herself clothed in human form. It demands a complete turnaround in mindset so that one begins seeing things differently from what they used to be.

Once people start connecting deeply within themselves by opening their hearts wide enough to embrace everybody else irrespective of surface divisions created by religion, race, nationality, etc., then we naturally develop empathy which enables us to understand where others are coming from, thereby treating them kindly always no matter what.

The Path to Liberation

Advaita Vedanta has the most effective method for achieving liberation ever known to date. The way out is enlightenment via self-inquiry coupled with meditation, ethical living, devotion, and other practices aimed at realizing our inherent identity with ultimate reality beyond illusory egocentricity so that we can live every moment fully aware of who we were truly meant to be.

Instead, whatever masks might have been worn prior – were all dropped during last night’s sleep and once again we are reborn anew today.

While the hardline Christian notion of instant redemption offers superficial comfort, it falls short of true spiritual transformation. Advaita Vedanta, with its emphasis on personal responsibility, self-inquiry, and the realization of non-duality, provides a more profound and enduring path to liberation. By opening their hearts and connecting with their true selves, individuals can transcend the limitations of religious identity and experience the true essence of divine love and unity.