Adi Da

Adi Da (born Franklin Albert Jones; November 3, 1939 – November 27, 2008) was an American spiritual teacher, writer, and artist. He was the founder of a new religious movement known as Adidam. Adi Da claimed to be an avatar, a human incarnation of the divine.

Early Life

Adi Da was born Franklin Albert Jones in Queens, New York City, on November 3, 1939. He grew up in a middle-class family and attended Columbia University, where he studied philosophy and literature. He later attended Stanford University, where he earned a master's degree in English literature.

Spiritual Journey

Adi Da's spiritual journey began in the 1960s when he studied under various spiritual teachers, including Swami Muktananda and Rudolf Steiner. He claimed to have experienced a series of profound spiritual awakenings, which led him to declare himself an avatar in 1970.

Founding of Adidam

In 1972, Adi Da founded the religious movement known as Adidam, originally called the Dawn Horse Communion. The movement is based on his teachings, which emphasize the importance of spiritual practice and the recognition of Adi Da as a divine being. Adidam has its headquarters on the island of Naitauba in Fiji.

Teachings

Adi Da's teachings draw from various religious traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity. He emphasized the importance of meditation, devotion, and self-inquiry as paths to spiritual enlightenment. His teachings are compiled in numerous books, including "The Knee of Listening" and "The Dawn Horse Testament."

Controversies

Adi Da's life and teachings have been the subject of controversy. Critics have accused him of being a cult leader and of engaging in abusive behavior towards his followers. Despite these controversies, Adi Da maintained a devoted following until his death.

Art and Literature

In addition to his spiritual teachings, Adi Da was also an accomplished artist and writer. His artwork includes paintings, photographs, and sculptures, which he described as expressions of his spiritual realizations. He also wrote extensively on spiritual and philosophical topics.

Death

Adi Da died on November 27, 2008, on the island of Naitauba in Fiji. His followers continue to practice his teachings and maintain the Adidam community.

Legacy

Adi Da's legacy is preserved through the Adidam community, which continues to promote his teachings and maintain his artistic works. His influence extends to various spiritual and religious communities around the world.

See Also

• Adidam
• Avatar
• Meditation
• Self-inquiry
• Swami Muktananda
• Rudolf Steiner

External Links

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