In Search of the Miraculous: The Definitive Exploration of G. I. Gurdjieff's Mystical Thought and Universal View (Revised)

Name: In Search of the Miraculous: The Definitive Exploration of G. I. Gurdjieff's Mystical Thought and Universal View (Revised)
Price: 20.00 USD
Availability: InStock
Author: Ouspensky, P D
ISBN: 9780156007467

✍️ Ouspensky, P D

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📚 ABOUT THE BOOK

Uncover the profound secrets of Gurdjieff's "Work" through his most faithful interpreter.

P.D. Ouspensky’s seminal work meticulously chronicles the enigmatic teachings of G.I. Gurdjieff, known as "The Work." As a gifted mathematician and journalist turned devoted student, Ouspensky presents an unparalleled, detailed account of Gurdjieff's system for human development. This book elucidates ancient Eastern spiritual philosophies aimed at Western audiences, offering a "universal view" that profoundly influenced subsequent spiritual movements. It remains the essential gateway for understanding Gurdjieff’s radical approach to consciousness and self-transformation, capturing the essence of a teacher dedicated to inner awakening.

Key themes

{'title': 'The Fourth Way Teaching', 'body': 'Ouspensky meticulously unpacks Gurdjieff\'s unique synthesis of esoteric traditions, detailing the principles and practices of "The Work." Readers will find a systematic presentation of concepts aimed at awakening latent human potential and achieving higher states of consciousness.'} {'title': 'Self-Observation & Awakening', 'body': 'The book emphasizes Gurdjieff’s insistence on rigorous self-study and objective self-awareness as the foundation for inner change. It explores methods designed to expose mechanicality and foster genuine individuality, moving beyond ordinary states of sleep-like existence.'} {'title': 'Universal Cosmology', 'body': 'Beyond personal development, Ouspensky conveys Gurdjieff’s expansive worldview, presenting a comprehensive understanding of cosmic laws governing life and humanity. This grand perspective offers a framework for comprehending one’s place within a larger, interconnected reality.'}

🏛 Harper Paperbacks 📅 2001 📖 416 pages 🌐 en 📐 Paperback ISBN: 9780156007467

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Fun fact

Ouspensky's "In Search of the Miraculous" stands as an unparalleled achievement in esoteric literature, rendering Gurdjieff’s complex teachings with remarkable clarity and intellectual rigor. It excels at providing a structured, in-depth understanding of "The Work," making it an essential reference. Those seeking quick spiritual fixes or light reading will likely be challenged; this demands engagement. It remains the foundational text for anyone serious about exploring Gurdjieffian thought, securing its place as a timeless guide to inner transformation.

📝 Description: In Search of the Miraculous: The Definitive Exploration of G. I. Gurdjieff's Mystical Thought and Universal View (Revised)

A new edition of the groundbreaking spiritual treasure, with a foreword by bestselling author Marianne Williamson . Since its original publication in 1949, In Search of the Miraculous has been hailed as the most valuable and reliable documentation of G. I. Gurdjieff's thoughts and universal view. This historic and influential work is considered by many to be a primer of mystical thought as expressed through the Work, a combination of Eastern philosophies that had for centuries been passed on orally from teacher to student. Gurdjieff's goal, to introduce the Work to the West, attracted many students, among them Ouspensky, an established mathematician, journalist, and, with the publication of In Search of the Miraculous, an eloquent and persuasive proselyte. Ouspensky describes Gurdjieff's teachings in fascinating and accessible detail, providing what has proven to be a stellar introduction to the universal view of both student and teacher. It goes without saying that In Search of the Miraculous has inspired great thinkers and writers of ensuing spiritual movements, including Marianne Williamson, the highly acclaimed author of A Return to Love and Illuminata. In a new and never-before-published foreword, Williamson shares the influence of Ouspensky's book and Gurdjieff's teachings on the New Thought movement and her own life, providing a contemporary look at an already timeless classic.

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⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.4/5

★★★★★

If you are drawn to profound philosophical inquiry, esoteric traditions, or the quest for genuine self-knowledge, this book is an indispensable guide. It's for serious seekers ready to engage with challenging ideas about human consciousness and potential.

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❓ Frequently asked questions

Absolutely. Often considered the most accessible and comprehensive introduction, Ouspensky's structured presentation makes it an ideal starting point for anyone exploring Gurdjieff's "Work."

This revised edition includes a thoughtful foreword by Marianne Williamson, offering contemporary insights and underscoring the enduring relevance of Gurdjieff's profound philosophical contributions.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

The Fourth Way Teaching

Ouspensky meticulously unpacks Gurdjieff's unique synthesis of esoteric traditions, detailing the principles and practices of "The Work." Readers will find a systematic presentation of concepts aimed at awakening latent human potential and achieving higher states of consciousness.

Self-Observation & Awakening

The book emphasizes Gurdjieff’s insistence on rigorous self-study and objective self-awareness as the foundation for inner change. It explores methods designed to expose mechanicality and foster genuine individuality, moving beyond ordinary states of sleep-like existence.

Universal Cosmology

Beyond personal development, Ouspensky conveys Gurdjieff’s expansive worldview, presenting a comprehensive understanding of cosmic laws governing life and humanity. This grand perspective offers a framework for comprehending one’s place within a larger, interconnected reality.

💬 Quotes from the book

«Man lives in an illusory world, imagining himself to be conscious, yet rarely glimpsing the mechanicality that governs his thoughts, feelings, and actions.»

«True knowledge begins not with external acquisition, but with an internal shift, a change in one's own being and understanding of oneself.»

📜 Historical context

Published in 1949, this volume stands as the definitive record of Gurdjieff’s teachings, bridging ancient Eastern wisdom with Western intellectualism. It emerged at a pivotal time, introducing complex spiritual methodologies to a broader audience and profoundly shaping subsequent esoteric and New Thought movements, solidifying its place as a cornerstone text.

📚 Glossary

The Work
Gurdjieff, G.I.
Ouspensky, P.D.

📔 Questions to reflect on

Reflect on a recent instance where you acted mechanically or unconsciously. How might greater self-awareness have altered your response?
Consider Gurdjieff's idea of "conscious labor and intentional suffering." What personal practices might cultivate such a disciplined approach in your own life?
How does the concept of a "universal view" or cosmic laws presented in the book resonate with or challenge your current understanding of existence?