Identifying Red Flags in Spiritual Communities, Sangha: Lama Sarah Harding

Sarah Harding describes the complexities of spiritual communities and the potential red flags that can arise within them. She focuses on the dynamics of groupthink, the importance of open inquiry, and the risks of spiritual elitism. Ms. Harding also considers how closed systems can lead to a lack of critical thinking and how some teachers may inadvertently foster sectarianism by discouraging engagement with other teachings. Key topics include: • The impact of closed systems on individual thought and behavior. • The role of teachers in preventing or promoting sectarian attitudes. • The dangers of spiritual materialism and elitism within communities. • The importance of fostering an inclusive and non-judgmental community environment. Whether you’re part of a spiritual community or simply curious about their dynamics, this video offers valuable insights into maintaining a balanced and open-minded approach to spiritual practice. ==================== Lama Sarah Harding completed the three year Kagyu retreat in the 1970s and has taught at Naropa University since 1991. She trained under Kalu Rinpoche and has translated for many of the most prominent Tibetan teachers since the 1970s. She is the translator of books such as: — Creation and Completion: Essential Points of Tantric Meditation by Jamgon Kongtrul https://amzn.to/3C3yGwr — Lion's Gaze (a Dzogchen text) https://amzn.to/3C3yGwr ==================== You can support this channel. We appreciate it! — Click Like, the Subscribe button and '🔔' to get notifications for new releases. — Share on social media. Or donate: — Send us a “coffee” via https://ko-fi.com/dharmatime — — Patreon (help the editing and release of other teaching videos from about 30 teachers and scholars,) go to:   / dharmatime   ====================