Christopher (Hareesh) Wallis on the Role of the Wisdom Traditions in the Modern World

Edge of Mind Podcast

Join Andrew and Sanskrit scholar Christopher (Hareesh) Wallis on a deep dive into the heart of nondual Shaiva Tantra, the nature of mind and reality, and the role of the wisdom traditions in the modern world. Hareesh is a rare blend of scholar-practitioner, which means he practices what he preaches. Drawing on his magisterial book The Recognition Sutras, this conversation emphasizes the simplicity and immediacy of the awakened state, how to access it, and how to stabilize it. Beginning with the story of how Dr. Wallis came to his tradition, the discussion turns to Kashmir Shaivism, and the many similarities to “trans-religious” traditions like Dzogchen. The challenge of working with spiritual experiences -- not turning them into traps – is discussed, along with a look at the massive role of contraction and relaxation on the spiritual path. The extra-ordinary nature of awakening is explored, along with the issue of “path” altogether: do we really need a path? How does striving along the path actually get in the way? Why do some people have awakening experiences that are blissful, while others experience fear upon opening? What is the importance of cultural translation, and how does language trap us? What is the nature of consciousness? This is a wide-ranging conversation with a leading voice in the world of nonduality, certain to stretch your mind and open your heart.