Online Videos
The ‘True Man’: Myth or Reality? —Jean-Louis Michon on Sufism & the Perfect Man
“The ‘True Man’: Myth or Reality?” — Jean-Louis Michon on Spiritual Nobility and the Perfect Man In this profound and personal talk from the 2006 Sacred Web Conference, the late traditionalist scholar Dr. Jean-Louis Michon (1924 – 2013) explores the question: Is the “True Man” a timeless spiritual reality—or just a mythic ideal? Drawing from Sufism, Islamic metaphysics, Christian theology, and Jewish mysticism, Michon weaves a rich tapestry of insights into the archetype of human perfection—known in various traditions as al-Insān al-Kāmil, Adam Kadmon, and the Second Adam. But this presentation goes far beyond theory. Michon shares his own spiritual journey, encounters with remarkable souls—those he calls “true men”—and his life-changing exposure to the works of René Guénon and Frithjof Schuon. The talk is at once intellectual, autobiographical, and deeply moving, offering a rare glimpse into the lived experience of a seeker who has walked the path of universal Tradition. Whether you’re interested in comparative religion, the doctrine of human perfection, or simply looking for clarity in a disoriented age, this is a message of guidance, humility, and hope. “To my contemporaries, those of all generations, I will say, just as I say to myself, ‘Prepare yourselves for the encounter with God.’ ” — Jean-Louis Michon.
Huston Smith answers questions from audience members.
The 2006 Sacred Web conference on the theme of “Tradition in the Modern World” concluded with a presentation from Professor Huston Smith. Prof. Smith (1919 – 2016) was perhaps the most renowned contemporary writer and educator on comparative religion. His formal talk, “The Universal Grammar of Worldviews,” summarized what he had come to understand as the key elements of metaphysics common to all faith traditions. Following his short presentation, he answered two questions from audience members, which are featured in this video.
Can You Teach Metaphysics to Skeptics? | James S. Cutsinger – A Socratic Dialogue
“The Noble Lie” —Prof. James S. Cutsinger on Tradition, Truth, and Teaching in a Secular Age. In this powerful excerpt from a talk by the late Dr. James S. Cutsinger, renowned Professor of Theology and Religious Thought at the University of South Carolina, we witness a unique dramatized dialogue between Socrates and a modern professor. The setting: a fictional academic conference on Tradition in the Modern World. The challenge: how to convey metaphysical and spiritual truths to students who are intelligent, skeptical, and agnostic. Through this imagined exchange, Cutsinger showcases the Socratic method at its finest—sharp, reflective, and relentless. This isn’t just a lecture: It’s a philosophical exploration of how Traditionalist teachings can still reach modern minds, even in a climate of doubt. Dr. Cutsinger presented this unique ‘lecture’ to a unique audience: attendees at the 2006 Sacred Web Conference in Edmonton, Alberta, which was titled “Tradition in the Modern World.” Many in the audience were teachers in precisely the position of Cutsinger’s fictional professor, and many others were on a path to become educators in their own right. Throughout his career as an extraordinary educator, Dr. Cutsinger used this ancient method to the great benefit of many of his students. If you’re drawn to comparative religion, Perennial Philosophy, or the challenge of speaking eternal truths in today’s secular world, this video is for you.
HRH Prince Charles (now King Charles III) addresses the Sacred Web Conference in 2006.
HRH Prince Charles (now King Charles III) gave this videotaped opening address to the Sacred Web conference on “Tradition in the Modern World on September 23, 2006.
Catherine Schuon speaks about her husband’s function in the world.
Catherine Schuon (1924–2021), was an author, editor, translator and artist. She was also the wife of the philosopher and central figure of the Perennial Philosophy, Frithjof Schuon. Here she speaks about her husband’s function in the world as an author.
Frithjof Schuon (1907-1998) summarizes his essential philosophy.
In 1991, Swiss philosopher Frithjof Schuon (1907-1998) met with a newspaper journalist for an extended interview conducted in English. This section of the interview covers Mr Schuon’s response to a request to summarize the most essential aspects of his philosophy. This is a very concise introduction to Frithjof Schuon’s philosophy and his resulting advice to spiritual seekers. This video was shown as part of the 2025 Schuon Lectures held at the Respect Graduate School.
Martin Lings on his first, and lasting, impressions of Frithjof Schuon
In this video from August 1992, Dr. Martin Lings (1909-2005) reflects on his first meeting with Frithjof Schuon, looking back on more than 50 years as one of Schuon’s closest friends and students. Dr. Lings was a perennialist/traditionalist writer, editor and translator, as well as a scholar and teacher of Islamic mysticism (Sufism) and art, and of Shakespeare. He was Keeper of Oriental Manuscripts at the British Museum and the British Library for many years. Martin Lings was also a long-time associate of both Schuon (1907-1998) and René Guénon (1886-1951). In this clip, Lings shares his powerful impressions upon meeting Schuon for the first time. He also shares Guénon’s comments to him regarding Schuon’s spiritual station. Finally, Lings expresses his own long-held certainty of the deep spiritual quality of his mentor and friend, Frithjof Schuon. Author and editor Michael F. Fitzgerald included this and two other clips in this playlist in his address to the 2025 Schuon Lectures at Respect Graduate School. Dr. Harry Oldmeadow was the primary lecturer.
The American Indian rite of the Vision Quest
Renowned Crow Sun Dance Chief and Medicine Man Thomas Yellowtail (1903 — 1993) describes the Vision Quest, its purposes, how to prepare for it, how it is conducted, and how successful seekers gain their “medicine” for themselves and for the good of the people.
Native Spirit: The American Indian Experience
This video unveils the American Indian experience from 1492 until today through the poignant voices of eminent Native leaders. You will hear the tragic story of the clash of cultures and the distressing challenges facing our Native Peoples; but, you will also see the remarkable successes that are unfolding as traditional Indian leaders fight to perpetuate their ancestral cultural traditions. The interviews with Native leaders include the first Native recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the U.S.; the Crow tribal historian for life; an American Indian Educator of the Year; a MacArthur Genius Award recipient; movie stars; distinguished university professors; and beloved spiritual leaders, including the 19th generation keeper of the Sacred White Buffalo Calf Pipe and Bundle of the Lakota tribe. This documentary film was an official selection for the Talking Stick Film Festival and has been used in both college and secondary classrooms.
The Sun Dance Way
The words of Sun Dance chief Thomas Yellowtail (1903 – 1993) reveal the mystical beauty of the Sun Dance, the central rite in the ancient religion of the Plains Indians that is still vibrant today. Yellowtail was one of the most honored and beloved Native spiritual leaders of the 20th century. This video contains authorized original film of the Crow Sun Dance; 145 photographs of Sun Dances from 1903 to 2004; over two dozen photographs of other sacred Plains rites; and interviews with Joe Medicine Crow, recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the U.S. This documentary was an official selection for Montreal’s First Peoples Film Festival and The American Indian Film Festival in San Francisco. Several short videos closely related to this video can also be viewed in the World Wisdom playlist titled “The Sun Dance Way”: The Sweat Lodge, The Vision Quest, Prayer with the Pipe, and Yellowtail Biography.
Indian Sweat Lodge Ceremony
Chief Yellowtail covers a few aspects of the construction of a sweat lodge, but focuses on the Sweat Lodge Ceremony itself and its purpose of purification. The clip finishes with a description of the spiritual benefit a participant should realize, as a kind of rebirth: “We can reemerge from the sweat lodge at the end of the ceremony as new men who have been shown the light of the wisdom of our spiritual heritage for the first time. This allows us to participate in all of our daily tasks with the fresh remembrance of our position on the Earth and our continuous obligation to walk on this Earth in accordance with the sacred ways.”
The clip is a remastered segment from the World Wisdom 2-DVD set “Native Spirit and The Sun Dance Way”, originally released in 2007.
Preserving Sacred Native Traditions
Thomas Yellowtail (1903-1993) was an influential and revered Crow Sun Dance Chief and Medicine Man. For many years, a number of American Indian spiritual leaders have allowed some elements of their spiritual traditions to be recorded, mostly in books. One important example is “Black Elk Speaks.” Another is Yellowtail’s own book “Yellowtail, Crow Medicine Man and Sun Dance Chief: an Autobiography” (1991). Chief Yellowtail also wanted to leave some audio and video recordings of insights, songs, and memories to aid his people in maintaining their spiritual and cultural traditions. This video was originally part of the two-DVD set “Native Spirit and the Sun Dance Way”. The video’s content has not been edited, only upgraded to a higher visual standard.
Reza Shah Kazemi on “Traditional Action in the Contemporary World”
“Traditional Action in the Contemporary World” was presented by Dr. Reza Shah-Kazemi at the Sacred Web 2006 Conference “Tradition in the Modern World” in Edmonton, Canada. Shah-Kazemi’s talk was a profound meditation on the levels of meaningful action available to people who have accepted a traditional spiritual framework — even despite the contrary currents that now surround us in the contemporary world. Dr. Shah-Kazemi is a scholar, author, editor, and translator with many publications to his name. His areas of specialization are comparative mysticism, Islamic Studies, Sufism and Shi’ism. Shah-Kazemi is currently Senior Research Associate at the Institute of Ismaili Studies in London. Viewers may also want to read the related essay by Frithjof Schuon, which Dr. Shah-Kazemi mentioned in his talk:
“Tradition Betrayed: The False Prophets of Modernism,” presented by Dr. Harry Oldmeadow
Dr. Harry Oldmeadow delivered his talk “Tradition Betrayed: The False Prophets of Modernism” at the Sacred Web 2006 conference “Tradition in the Modern World,” held in Edmonton, Canada. Dr. Oldmeadow’s presentation was an extensive re-assessment of certain aspects of the modernist doctrines of Darwin, Marx, Freud, and Nietzsche. This is because the writings of these thinkers characterize a modernist mentality dominated by ‘pseudo-mythologies’ that, “unlike genuine mythologies do not disclose the Real, but actually hide It.” The presentation includes numerous quotes from the above-mentioned thinkers juxtaposed with quotes from scriptures and Traditionalist authors. Dr. Harry Oldmeadow is an educator (formerly Coordinator of Philosophy and Religious Studies at La Trobe University, Bendigo, Australia), scholar, writer, and editor. He is one of the foremost interpreters of the work of Perennialist author Frithjof Schuon.
“A Study of Two Perspectives on the Crucifixion” (Christian-Muslim), by David Dakake for Sacred Web
The full title is “A Traditionalist Contribution to Christian-Muslim Inter-religious Dialogue: A Study of Two Perspectives on the Crucifixion.” The presentation was given by David Dakake at the Sacred Web 2006 conference “Tradition in the Modern World,” held in Edmonton, Canada. In his talk, Dakake focuses on another controversy in Christian and Muslim theologies — the crucifixion of Christ. Using an example from the writing of Seyyed Hossein Nasr, Dakake illustrates how the ambiguity in the Quranic depiction of the crucifixion may allow two very providential and thus valid interpretations of the one event, interpretations that could deepen inter-religious understanding between the two faiths. David Dakake is Adjunct Professor in the Religious Studies Department of George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, specializing in Comparative Religion and Islamic Thought.
M. Ali Lakhani opens the 2006 Sacred Web Conference “Tradition in the Modern World”
M. Ali Lakhani organized the 2006 Sacred Web Conference “Tradition in the Modern World.” This is a video of his remarks opening the conference. The Sacred Web Conference on “Tradition in the Modern World” was held September 23-24, 2006 in Edmonton, Canada. It was, according to keynote speaker Seyyed Hossein Nasr, one of the most important conferences on Tradition (often called “Perennialism”) within recent decades. People from all over the world attended talks from many of the most the most respected names in traditionalist/perennialist studies, as well as a new generation of thinkers. M. Ali Lakhani is an author, editor, and lawyer whose published work focuses on metaphysics and the perennial principles found in the wisdom traditions of the world. Ali Lakhani founded the traditionalist journal, “Sacred Web” in 1998, which is one of the most respected journals on the Perennial Philosophy within recent decades.
“Tradition and Inter-faith Dialogue,” presented by Dr. Joseph Lumbard
Dr. Joseph Lumbard gave a talk titled “Tradition and Inter-faith Dialogue” at the Sacred Web 2006 Conference in Edmonton, Canada. Lumbard demonstrates how, from a Traditionalist perspective, we might view some seemingly irreconcilable differences over an historical figure who is part of two very separate religious traditions — in this case, the figure of Christ as understood by Christians and Muslims. He also discusses how Traditionalists, particularly Frithjof Schuon, along with the Christian theologian, philosopher and mystic Meister Eckhart explained the Trinity in a way that might be acceptable to both Christian and Muslim theologians. Prof. Lumbard (born 1969) is an American Muslim scholar of Islamic studies and currently associate professor of Quranic studies at the College of Islamic Studies at Hamad Bin Khalifa University in Qatar. Lumbard is an author, editor, and translator of several scholarly books, and has also written many articles on Islamic philosophy, Sufism, and Quranic studies.
Prof. S. H. Nasr on “The Recovery of the Sacred: Tradition & Perennialism in the Contemporary World”
“The Recovery of the Sacred: Tradition and Perennialism in the Contemporary World” was the keynote address given by Dr. Seyyed Hossein Nasr to the Sacred Web 2006 Conference in Edmonton, Canada. His talk presented a survey of the influences that scientism and modernism have had on the contemporary world. Prof. Nasr also pointed out significant ways in which the Perennialist perspective has contributed to a more objective assessment of that world. In addition, the talk includes clear definitions of some of the central tenets of Perennialism. After clarifying what he means by “Traditionalist” or “Traditionalism,” Dr. Nasr uses these terms interchangeably with “Perennialist” and “Perennialism. Seyyed Hossein Nasr (b. 1933) is University Professor of Islamic Studies at George Washington University. The author of over thirty books and three hundred articles, he is one of the world’s most respected writers and speakers on Islam, its arts and sciences, and its traditional mystical path, Sufism. He is undeniably the most significant living spokesperson on the Perennial Philosophy, as well as on its reflections on such fields as ecology, art, science, interfaith dialogue, comparative religion, and more.
William Chittick discusses “The Traditional Approach to Learning”
William Chittick presented his paper “The Traditional Approach to Learning” to the 2006 Sacred Web Conference “Tradition in the Modern World.” His talk begins with an explanation of how the ancient Confucian tradition considers the central purpose of education to be a profound awakening of each individual. Chittick then moves to other traditions, focusing on Islam as an example, showing that they, too, share a similar perspective. He suggests that this lofty goal of education is nearly unattainable in modern societies. Dr. William C. Chittick is one of the most important contemporary translators and interpreters of Islamic mystical texts and poetry. He is currently Distinguished Professor in the Department of Asian and Asian American Studies at Stony Brook University, where he has taught for many years.
William Stoddart explains Guénon’s contributions to Perennialist Philosophy
René Guénon (1886-1951) was a French metaphysician, writer, and editor who was largely responsible for laying the metaphysical groundwork for the Traditionalist or Perennialist school of thought in the early twentieth century. His writings were very influential on the Perennialist writers and thinkers who followed him.
What is the Perennialist school of thought?
Authors Martin Lings, James Cutsinger, William Stoddart, and Mark Perry discuss some central aspects of the school of thought called the Perennial Philosophy. The speakers focus upon Frithjof Schuon’s writings about the transcendent unity of religions and the imprint of the single and same divine Reality that underlies the diverse religious traditions.
James Cutsinger explains the “transcendent unity of religions” as found in Schuon’s writings
Prof. James Cutsinger (1953 – 2020) was a Christian scholar but also had a deep understanding of the Perennial Philosophy and the work of Frithjof Schuon. Here, Cutsinger offers concise but profound insight into the meaning of the “transcendent unity of religions” as found in the numerous works of Schuon.
James Cutsinger defines the “Perennial Philosophy”
Prof. James Cutsinger outlines the historical use of the term “Perennial Philosophy,” and provides metaphors to illustrate his definition of the term. The “transcendent unity of religions,” though not explicitly mentioned, is naturally connected to the latter, more expansive understanding of the Perennial Philosophy.
James Cutsinger corrects the idea that the Perennial Philosophy opposes traditional Christianity
Prof. James Cutsinger was an orthodox Christian scholar who was also very knowledgeable about philosophy and the Perennial Philosophy in particular. In this in-depth talk, he refers to the New and Old Testaments, and ancient Christian theology and iconography to show that the Logos (Christ in Christianity) in fact can communicate Its truths to other religious traditions in different forms. This wide-ranging lesson refutes a common attitude that the Perennial Philosophy undermines Christian beliefs.
James Cutsinger describes how he successfully used Frithjof Schuon’s ideas in his teaching
Prof. James Cutsinger describes how various insights found in Schuon’s writings, based on the transcendent unity of religions, helped him communicate such concepts as the doctrine and method in all religious traditions, the necessary existence of evil in the world. Prof. Cutsinger notes that these are “Perennialist ideas.”
What Can American Indian Traditions Teach Us About Sustainability?
This recorded lesson first defines “sustainability” and then goes on to demonstrate how the Native Americans (focusing most often on the Plains tribes) incorporated profound values of sustainability into their various cultures. The lessons within the Native American traditions for other civilizations struggling to understand and adopt ways of sustainability are very clear. The recording includes video clips on the Sweat Lodge, Vision Quest, the Sun Dance, and and other rites of the Plains Indians. This lesson is most suited to advanced middle-school or high-school classes. It can be used to supplement classes on history, sociology, current affairs, or other social studies disciplines . The lecture was presented at Culver Academies in Culver, Indiana on September 10, 2013 as a contribution to Culver’s Global Studies Institute, which is “a center for the study of international affairs that seeks to help students and all in our educational community become more knowledgeable, global citizens.” The presenter is author, editor, documentary film producer, and educator Michael Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald is a well-known author and editor of many books on American Indian subjects, and has many years of close relations with several tribes. He was the adopted son of the late Crow Medicine Man and Sun Dance Chief, Thomas Yellowtail.
The American Indian Experience, 1500–2013
This is a 45-minute video lesson, offered for free classroom use. The video shows author Michael Fitzgerald giving this lesson to a class at Culver Academies in Culver, Indiana in 2013. The lesson focuses on the history of the contacts Native American tribes had with European and American settlers and with the US governments over many generations. It includes video of the presenter, textual slides, and videos of Native American elders. The lesson is intended for advanced middle-school or high-school classes.
Huston Smith explains how he incorporated Frithjof Schuon’s writings into his own spiritual practice
In this clip, Professor Huston Smith is asked about incorporating Frithjof Schuon’s writings into his own spiritual practice, which Smith answers with his usual detail and clarity. In the series of clips from his interview with World Wisdom, of which this is one, Prof. Smith revealed that a major milestone in his career as a scholar of religions and philosophy was his finding and delving deeply into the writings of Frithjof Schuon. Huston Smith (1919–2016) was a scholar, educator, and author who was widely recognized as a leading voice in the study of comparative religion. He authored over twelve books on the religions of the world and philosophy. His book “The World’s Religions” was and still is a fundamental text in the study of the world’s great religions. Prof. Smith’s ideas were also shared with many others through television appearances with Bill Moyers (“The Wisdom of Faith with Huston Smith”) and through film and audio field recordings he made in foreign locales. His work as an educator was greatly valued by generations of students in some of the finest universities in America.
Huston Smith tells the story of how he discovered Frithjof Schuon’s works
Prof. Huston Smith here tells the story of how he discovered the books of Frithjof Schuon over the course of some years and why he came to value them so much. In the series of clips from his interview with World Wisdom, of which this is one, Prof. Smith revealed that a major milestone in his career as a scholar of religions and philosophy was his finding and delving deeply into the writings of Frithjof Schuon. Huston Smith (1919–2016) was a scholar, educator, and author who was widely recognized as a leading voice in the study of comparative religion. He authored over twelve books on the religions of the world and philosophy. His book “The World’s Religions” was and still is a fundamental text in the study of the world’s great religions. Prof. Smith’s ideas were also shared with many others through television appearances with Bill Moyers (“The Wisdom of Faith with Huston Smith”) and through film and audio field recordings he made in foreign locales. His work as an educator was greatly valued by generations of students in some of the finest universities in America.
Huston Smith shares his personal answer to the question “Who Is Frithjof Schuon?”
One of the great expositors of current Comparative Religion, Professor Huston Smith, shared his personal answer to the question “Who Was Frithjof Schuon?” in this interview. In the series of clips from his interview with World Wisdom, of which this is one, Prof. Smith revealed that a major milestone in his career as a scholar of religions and philosophy was his finding and delving deeply into the writings of Frithjof Schuon. Huston Smith (1919–2016) was a scholar, educator, and author who was widely recognized as a leading voice in the study of comparative religion. He authored over twelve books on the religions of the world and philosophy. His book “The World’s Religions” was and still is a fundamental text in the study of the world’s great religions. Prof. Smith’s ideas were also shared with many others through television appearances with Bill Moyers (“The Wisdom of Faith with Huston Smith”) and through film and audio field recordings he made in foreign locales. His work as an educator was greatly valued by generations of students in some of the finest universities in America.
Huston Smith explains how he situates Frithjof Schuon among the great metaphysicians of history
After giving his assessment of Frithjof Schuon’s unique place among contemporary philosophers and metaphysicians, Huston Smith is asked to expand his answer to consider Schuon’s place among the great metaphysicians and philosophers of history. His response is both surprising and extremely insightful. In the series of clips from his interview with World Wisdom, of which this is one, Prof. Smith revealed that a major milestone in his career as a scholar of religions and philosophy was his finding and delving deeply into the writings of Frithjof Schuon. Huston Smith (1919–2016) was a scholar, educator, and author who was widely recognized as a leading voice in the study of comparative religion. He authored over twelve books on the religions of the world and philosophy. His book “The World’s Religions” was and still is a fundamental text in the study of the world’s great religions. Prof. Smith’s ideas were also shared with many others through television appearances with Bill Moyers (“The Wisdom of Faith with Huston Smith”) and through film and audio field recordings he made in foreign locales. His work as an educator was greatly valued by generations of students in some of the finest universities in America.
Huston Smith discusses Frithof Schuon’s unique reconciliation of esoterism with exoterism
Prof. Huston Smith was particularly interested in the mystical dimensions of the world’s religious traditions. A tension almost always exists between religious authorities (e.g. clergy, doctors of religious law) who determine doctrine and practices for most followers (i.e., “exoterism,” the outer dimension of a religion) and those who are attracted to a deeper dimension of a religious framework (i.e., “esoterism,” the inner dimension), which is practiced by fewer believers and is more nuanced. Smith thought that perhaps Frithof Schuon’s greatest contribution to metaphysics, philosophy, and comparative religion was how he reconciled them in a way that, in fact, even helped to reconcile the diverse religious traditions themselves. In the series of clips from his interview with World Wisdom, of which this is one, Prof. Smith revealed that a major milestone in his career as a scholar of religions and philosophy was his finding and delving deeply into the writings of Frithjof Schuon. Huston Smith (1919–2016) was a scholar, educator, and author who was widely recognized as a leading voice in the study of comparative religion. He authored over twelve books on the religions of the world and philosophy. His book “The World’s Religions” was and still is a fundamental text in the study of the world’s great religions. Prof. Smith’s ideas were also shared with many others through television appearances with Bill Moyers (“The Wisdom of Faith with Huston Smith”) and through film and audio field recordings he made in foreign locales. His work as an ed
Huston Smith explains how he would compare Frithjof Schuon to current philosophers
Huston Smith was a well-known scholar of philosophy and comparative religion. In this clip, Dr. Smith responds to the question of how he would compare Frithjof Schuon to contemporary philosophers. In the series of clips from his interview with World Wisdom, of which this is one, Prof. Smith revealed that a major milestone in his career as a scholar of religions and philosophy was his finding and delving deeply into the writings of Frithjof Schuon. Huston Smith (1919–2016) was a scholar, educator, and author who was widely recognized as a leading voice in the study of comparative religion. He authored over twelve books on the religions of the world and philosophy. His book “The World’s Religions” was and still is a fundamental text in the study of the world’s great religions. Prof. Smith’s ideas were also shared with many others through television appearances with Bill Moyers (“The Wisdom of Faith with Huston Smith”) and through film and audio field recordings he made in foreign locales. His work as an educator was greatly valued by generations of students in some of the finest universities in America.
William Stoddart lists the four key authors in the development of the Perennialist school of thought
Author, editor, and translator William Stoddart discusses four authors who were instrumental in the development of the Perennialist school of philosophy in the 20th century: Frithjof Schuon, René Guénon, Ananda Coomaraswamy, and Titus Burckhardt. William Stoddart (1925–2023) was a prolific Perennialist author, editor, and translator who was active in advancing the understanding of the writings of Frithjof Schuon, Titus Burckhardt, and others, for over 50 years. He translated several of the books of Schuon and Burckhardt, both of whom he was closely with for decades, into English, including many of Schuon’s poems. In addition, for many years Dr. Stoddart served as assistant editor of the influential British journal “Studies in Comparative Religion.”
William Stoddart notes Guénon’s and Schuon’s emphasis on the necessity of orthodox religions
Here, the late Dr. William Stoddart notes Guénon’s and Schuon’s emphasis on the necessity of orthodox religions for those seeking to participate in a “religio perennis.” In his listing of the major orthodox religions, Stoddart does not mention Judaism, although it is clearly included in the considerations of both Guénon and Schuon. He did not include it presumably because neither of these authors addressed it with the same frequency as they did the others mentioned by Stoddart.
Stoddart summarizes 4 central themes in Frithjof Schuon’s work: Truth, prayer, virtue, and beauty
In this clip, the late Dr.William Stoddart summarizes the four central themes in Frithjof Schuon’s writings, as stated by Schuon himself: Truth, prayer, virtue, and beauty. William Stoddart (1925–2023) was a prolific Perennialist author, editor, and translator who was active in advancing the understanding of the writings of Frithjof Schuon, Titus Burckhardt, and others, for over 50 years. He translated several of the books of Schuon and Burckhardt, both of whom he was closely with for decades, into English, including many of Schuon’s poems. In addition, for many years Dr. Stoddart served as assistant editor of the influential British journal “Studies in Comparative Religion.”
Author William Stoddart discusses Frithjof Schuon’s emphasis on detachment, objectivity, and virtue
In this clip, the late Dr. William Stoddart explains Schuon’s emphasis on detachment, objectivity, and virtue as the foundations for clear thinking, and thus understanding, when approaching works of Perennialist philosophy. William Stoddart (1925–2023) was a prolific Perennialist author, editor, and translator who was active in advancing the understanding of the writings of Frithjof Schuon, Titus Burckhardt, and others, for over 50 years. He translated several of the books of Schuon and Burckhardt, both of whom he was closely with for decades, into English, including many of Schuon’s poems. In addition, for many years Dr. Stoddart served as assistant editor of the influential British journal “Studies in Comparative Religion.”
Seyyed Hossein Nasr answers the question “Who was Frithjof Schuon?”
Seyyed Hossein Nasr answers the question “Who was Frithjof Schuon?” by discussing both Schuon’s public image as a gifted author and his inward dimensions. Seyyed Hossein Nasr is a renowned philosopher, educator, scholar, author and editor, with a remarkable range of expertise in philosophy, metaphysics, art, comparative religion, esoterism, and Islamic Studies. Besides studying his works, Dr. Nasr was personally close to Schuon for many decades. Nasr is the editor of the definitive compendium of Schuon’s selected writings, “The Essential Frithjof Schuon” (World Wisdom, 2005). In that volume, Professor Nasr’s introduction of 60 pages is an excellent introduction to Schuon and his body of work.
Seyyed Hossein Nasr speaks about the people to whom Frithjof Schuon addressed his books
Seyyed Hossein Nasr speaks about the people to whom Frithjof Schuon (1907 – 1998) addressed his books, based on Nasr’s own observations but also on comments from the late author himself. Dr. Seyyed Hossein Nasr is a renowned philosopher, educator, scholar, author and editor, with a remarkable range of expertise in philosophy, metaphysics, art, comparative religion, esoterism, and Islamic Studies. Besides studying his works, Dr. Nasr was personally close to Schuon for many decades. He is the editor of the definitive compendium of Schuon’s selected writings, “The Essential Frithjof Schuon” (World Wisdom, 2005). In that volume, Professor Nasr’s introduction of 60 pages is an excellent introduction to Schuon and his body of work.
Seyyed Hossein Nasr explains why reading books on metaphysics, including Schuon’s, can be difficult
Seyyed Hossein Nasr explains why some readers have difficulty in reading books on metaphysics in general and Frithjof Schuon’s (1907 – 1998) books in particular. Dr. Seyyed Hossein Nasr is a renowned philosopher, educator, scholar, author and editor, with a remarkable range of expertise in philosophy, metaphysics, art, comparative religion, esoterism, and Islamic Studies. Besides studying his works, Dr. Nasr was personally close to Schuon for many decades. He is the editor of the definitive compendium of Schuon’s selected writings, “The Essential Frithjof Schuon” (World Wisdom, 2005). In that volume, Professor Nasr’s introduction of 60 pages is an excellent introduction to Schuon and his body of work.
Seyyed Hossein Nasr highlights what he considers to be Schuon’s four most important books
Professor Seyyed Hossein Nasr is one of the most qualified people on earth to weigh the significance of particular books from Schuon’s extensive opus. In this clip, Dr. Nasr highlights what he considers the four most important books of Frithjof Schuon (1907 – 1998). Dr. Seyyed Hossein Nasr is a renowned philosopher, educator, scholar, author and editor, with a remarkable range of expertise in philosophy, metaphysics, art, comparative religion, esoterism, and Islamic Studies. Besides studying his works, Dr. Nasr was personally close to Schuon for many decades. He is the editor of the definitive compendium of Schuon’s selected writings, “The Essential Frithjof Schuon” (World Wisdom, 2005). In that volume, Professor Nasr’s introduction of 60 pages is an excellent introduction to Schuon and his body of work.
Seyyed Hossein Nasr explains Frithjof Schuon’s critique of modern philosophy
In this clip Dr. Seyyed Hossein Nasr discusses Frithjof Schuon’s (1907 – 1998) critique of modern Western philosophy. Dr. Seyyed Hossein Nasr is a renowned philosopher, educator, scholar, author and editor, with a remarkable range of expertise in philosophy, metaphysics, art, comparative religion, esoterism, and Islamic Studies. Besides studying his works, Dr. Nasr was personally close to Schuon for many decades. He is the editor of the definitive compendium of Schuon’s selected writings, “The Essential Frithjof Schuon” (World Wisdom, 2005). In that volume, Professor Nasr’s introduction of 60 pages is an excellent introduction to Schuon and his body of work.
Dr. Janine Pease shares advice for American Indian youth
Janine Pease, a MacArthur Genius Award recipient and an American Indian Educator of the Year, provides advice for American Indian youth in this compilation of some clips from an interview. Her wise suggestions can equally apply to young people growing up anywhere.
Chief Thomas Yellowtail’s prayer for inter-faith understanding using the symbolism of a wagon wheel
In his autobiography (“Yellowtail: Crow Medicine Man and Sun Dance Chief”), the late Thomas Yellowtail (1903-1993) explained the outer forms and inner meanings of the essential elements of the Crow Sun Dance religion. In Part Three, “Conclusions,” the final chapter of the book is titled “Make Your Choice.” The text of this clip is excerpted from that chapter. Yellowtail introduces his prayer, and concludes the book, saying: “Each person [can] choose whether to join a religion and way of prayer. There are different reasons why you should do this: of course, you can fear punishment just like the child who disobeys, or you can follow a sacred path because you know and love the sacred ways … There is nothing more I can say except to raise my voice in prayer:…”
Thomas Yellowtail speaks on the spiritual symbolism of the wagon wheel
The late Crow Sun Dance Chief and Medicine Man, Thomas Yellowtail, expresses his view of the validity of different religions. He uses the symbol of a wagon wheel to illustrate how at the center of the wheel (i.e. the hub) is the Great Spirit. The various spokes connecting to it can represent different spiritual ways to the same Supreme Spirit. Using this universal symbolism, Yellowtail is describing the transcendent unity of religions.
Joe Medicine Crow shares advice to young Indians on “Living in Two Worlds”
Dr. Joe Medicine Crow explains how by engaging in both cultures that were around him growing up, he was able to survive the reservation times in his childhood while keeping the spirit of the old tribal ways alive. Dr. Medicine Crow gives some interesting details on how the All American Indian Days — which were held in Sheridan, Wyoming between 1952 and 1984 — contributed to the revival of many traditional practices and crafts. He encourages today’s young Indians to honor the traditional tribal ways through current Indian Days and Pow Wows.
Catherine Schuon, wife of Frithjof Schuon, speaks about traditional art and the decor of her home
Catherine Schuon (1924–2021) was the wife of the Swiss philosopher, author, artist, and poet Frithjof Schuon (1908–1998). In this clip, she explains how the revelation of a religion also brings about its own style of art, architecture, furnishings, and crafts. When she says, “And so, as much as possible, he wanted it to be furnished in a traditional way,” she was referring to her husband’s preferences for the decor of their home. Catherine Schuon was herself a talented editor, translator, and artist. These talents are well displayed in the book “Art from the Sacred to the Profane: East and West” (World Wisdom, 2007; Art from the Sacred to the Profane: East and West). She edited this illustrated volume of selected chapters from Frithjof Schuon’s extensive works. The book delves deeply into many of the points raised in this clip. In addition, many of her own paintings are featured in the illustrated children’s book “A King James Christmas: Biblical Selections with Illustrations from Around the World” (Wisdom Tales Press, 2012; A King James Christmas: Biblical Selections with Illustrations from Around the World). Catherine Schuon also co-edited “A King James Christmas.”
Catherine Schuon, wife of Frithjof Schuon, recalls what he enjoyed in large cities
Catherine Schuon (1924–2021), was married to the philosopher, artist, and poet Frithjof Schuon (1907–1998) for almost 50 years. During those years they took many trips together. These were sometimes to the Swiss Alps or to visit American Indian friends in the Amercian West, or to sacred places in Turkey or many other places. In this video clip, the late Catherine Schuon recounts what her husband loved about large cities and how he would react to sights that were beautiful or those that were not. Other traveling companions of Frithjof Schuon have shared anecdotes about what they learned from him during travels. Several of his friends have recalled that when they encountered an ugly scene, for example, Schuon would look beyond those ugly things and would instead find and dwell on something beautiful. All of these friends came to appreciate the wisdom, self-discipline, and, ultimately, the spiritual value of this type of focus. In his book “Frithjof Schuon: Messenger of the Perennial Philosophy” (World Wisdom, 2010;), author Michael Fitzgerald wrote much about Schuon’s attraction to the sacred and to Beauty and their manifestations in nature and in traditional art. The following excerpt, from pages six to seven of the book, includes some of Schuon’s own words concerning his love of museums: “The young Schuon had an innate appreciation for all manifestations of the sacred. He said several times that ‘four things have always moved me most profoundly: the holy; the great; the beautiful; the childlike.’ One sees, for example, this love of sacred beauty when in 1919, at the age of twelve, he discovered three Buddhist statues in the Museum of Ethnology in Basle. ‘Our first encounter—intense and unforgettable—with Buddhism and the Far East took place in our childhood before a great Japanese Buddha of gilded wood, flanked by two images of Kwannon. Suddenly faced with this vision of majesty and mystery, we might well have paraphrased Caesar by exclaiming: Veni, vidi, victus sum [I came, I saw, I was conquered].’ Thus, from his childhood, Schuon loved museums. ‘I could spend hours visually assimilating the messages of the diverse traditional worlds. For me, visual assimilation came before conceptual assimilation; and here I have in mind not only sacred art, but handicrafts as well, including the most modest; for it can happen that an artifact may vehicle as much spirituality as does sacred art in the strict sense of the term.’ These are early affirmations of an aesthetic intuition that showed itself prominently in later life.”
Catherine Schuon, wife of Frithjof Schuon, explains two important elements he used in his paintings
Catherine Schuon (1924–2021) was the wife of Frithjof Schuon. She, too, was a gifted painter, and she compiled and edited an illustrated volume of Frithjof Schuon’s writings on traditional art, “Art from the Sacred to the Profane: East and West” (World Wisdom, 2007). In this short video, she points out two of the fundamental principles that Schuon followed in all of his paintings, which resulted in images that are intentionally two-dimensional and that avoid momentary motion. One never sees a momentary “snapshot” of an action in progress in the paintings of Frithjof Schuon. Even the horses in some of his paintings of Plains Indians are stepping slowly and carefully, as if they are in a ceremony. These two principles, among others, are found in works of traditional and sacred art over millennia. The late Michael Pollack, the editor of a book of paintings by Schuon, wrote this passage, which may provide some further explanation: “It is essential to understand that Schuon is never interested in originality and innovation; he is fascinated by the subject matter alone, its origin being what he observed among the Indians or an inner vision of spiritual realities. As for style, Schuon applies the general rules of traditional pictorial art, the first principle being that a painting must take into account the flatness and immobility of the surface; it should not represent three-dimensional space nor a too accidental and hence fragmentary movement. Schuon likes to repeat his subjects, a tendency that derives from his interest or fascination with them; it would be missing the point to reproach the painter for this kind of “monotony,” since it is a characteristic of all traditional art to repeat certain central motifs—it does this in order to unfold their full potentialities.” The rest of Pollack’s piece can be read at frithjofschuon.net.
Dr Medicine Crow on political objectives of missions & the co-existence of religions on reservations
Chief Joe Medicine Crow explains early U.S. government objectives for religious missions establishing themselves on reservations. He also describes the Indian attitude toward the numerous missionary Christian sects that came to the Crow reservation, as well as how traditional Indian religion interacted with this other religion. Joe Medicine Crow (1913-2016) was the Crow Tribal Historian and a revered elder of the Crow tribe. In 1939, he was the first member of the Crow tribe to obtain a master’s degree. His Master’s thesis, “The Effects of European Culture Contact upon the Economic, Social, and Religious Life of the Crow Indians,” remains the most widely read source on Crow culture. He received honorary doctoral degrees from the University of Southern California and Rocky Mountain College. Medicine Crow was the last traditional Plains war chief, having achieved the war deeds necessary to be declared a “chief” during World War II.
Joe Medicine Crow relates the history of the early boarding school on the Crow reservation
Chief Medicine Crow tells how the boarding schools on reservations were places of intense work and terrible conditions for the children that were required to live there due to government regulations. He includes a tragic story about his grandfather who had to bring a Nez Perce boy to one of these schools. Joe Medicine Crow (1913-2016) was the Crow Tribal Historian and a revered elder of the Crow tribe. In 1939, he was the first member of the Crow tribe to obtain a master’s degree. His Master’s thesis, “The Effects of European Culture Contact upon the Economic, Social, and Religious Life of the Crow Indians,” remains the most widely read source on Crow culture. He received honorary doctoral degrees from the University of Southern California and Rocky Mountain College. Medicine Crow was the last traditional Plains war chief, having achieved the war deeds necessary to be declared a “chief” during World War II.
Joe Medicine Crow on early life on the Crow Reservation and government repression
Joe Medicine Crow recounts the government oppression during the early reservation period, which prohibited the Indians from all activities related to their traditional culture. He speaks as an historian, but also from his own personal experience, being raised by grandparents from the nomadic pre-reservation days. Joe Medicine Crow (1913-2016) was the Crow Tribal Historian and a revered elder of the Crow tribe. In 1939, he was the first member of the Crow tribe to obtain a master’s degree. His Master’s thesis, “The Effects of European Culture Contact upon the Economic, Social, and Religious Life of the Crow Indians,” remains the most widely read source on Crow culture. He received honorary doctoral degrees from the University of Southern California and Rocky Mountain College. Medicine Crow was the last traditional Plains war chief, having achieved the war deeds necessary to be declared a “chief” during World War II.
Chief Arvol Looking Horse urges retaining Indian culture and languages
Chief Arvol Looking Horse, citing Sitting Bull, counsels that Indian youth should balance their education with knowledge of traditional ways, including Indian language. At the age of 12, Chief Looking Horse was given the responsibility of becoming the 19th Generation Keeper of the Sacred White Buffalo Calf Pipe, the sacred pipe of the Lakota, Dakota and Nakota Nations. He is widely recognized as a chief and the spiritual leader of all three branches of the Sioux tribe.
Chief Arvol Looking Horse on the importance of the “Cycle of Life”
Chief Arvol Looking Horse discusses his concern for the disruption of the “cycle of life” that guaranteed the spiritual and physical health of the people. At the age of 12, Chief Looking Horse was given the responsibility of becoming the 19th Generation Keeper of the Sacred White Buffalo Calf Pipe, the sacred pipe of the Lakota, Dakota and Nakota Nations. He is widely recognized as a chief and the spiritual leader of all three branches of the Sioux tribe.
Arvol Looking Horse on the Need for the Sacred
Arvol Looking Horse speaks on the results of ignoring the Sacred in everyday life and how the traditional ceremonies still bring the Sacred into the life of the people. At the age of 12, he was given the responsibility of becoming the 19th Generation Keeper of the Sacred White Buffalo Calf Pipe, the sacred pipe of the Lakota, Dakota and Nakota Nations. He is widely recognized as a chief and the spiritual leader of all three branches of the Sioux tribe.
Salish Prayer for the People from John Arlee
In this video clip, John Arlee, Salish traditional spiritual leader and educator, first explains in English, then prays in his native Salish for the future of his people and in particular for strength for young people to perpetuate the valuable heritage of the tribe.
Advice to Indian Youth from Salish Elder John Arlee
John Arlee, Salish traditional spiritual leader and educator, asks American Indians to have and show pride in their heritage. He specifically mentions youth following some traditional ways and for all to act as role models for others in their behavior.
A video biography of Crow Sun Dance Chief Thomas Yellowtail
Medicine Man and Sun Dance Chief Thomas Yellowtail (1903-1993) was a pivotal figure in Crow tribal life and one of the most admired American Indian spiritual leaders of the last century. This is a video biography of Yellowtail. This clip is taken in its entirety from a special feature included in the 2-DVD set “Native Spirit and The Sun Dance Way” (World Wisdom Inc.; ISBN: 1-933316-32-2). This clip is from Disc Two, “The Sun Dance Way.” There is another clip from this DVD set on this playlist. It is from Disc One, “Native Spirit,” and is titled “So My People May Live.” Also on the World Wisdom website, there is an author page for Thomas Yellowtail that gives more biographical details about him as well as photos, articles and more that may be useful. The voice of the late Canadian actor and First People’s advocate Gordon Tootoosis is heard in the video reading the words of Chief Thomas Yellowtail. There are other videos in this channel with Thomas Yellowtail himself talking about American Indian religion and lifeways. For those interested in learning more about Yellowtail, parts of his autobiography, “Yellowtail, Crow Medicine Man and Sun Dance Chief: An Autobiography,” (University of Oklahoma Press; New edition 1994) can be read on Google Books.
Frithjof Schuon discusses his perspective on metaphysics and religion
Frithjof Schuon (1907–1998) discusses his perspective on metaphysics, the transcendent unity of religions, the meaning of religion, and the need for metaphysical truth. His discussion demonstrates some of the interplay between the concepts and symbols of the Perennial Philosophy, which can be found within all traditional religions in their various forms, and an individual’s practice of one of those religions. He agrees with the interviewer that his metaphysics is largely based on Hinduism. From Schuon’s writings, we can understand that he is specifically referring to the Advaita Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy. In saying that “the framework is Islam,” he is referring to the religious form to which he was guided as a young man. The “certain ecological barakah (i.e. blessing, or spiritual ambiance)” with which he liked to surround himself, he describes as Red Indian, referring to the tradition into which he was adopted and which was to provide his deep connection to nature itself and to the underlying primordial nature of man. Schuon did not practice any American Indian religion himself, but was deeply nurtured by its traditional ambience. In recapturing this unblemished primordial nature within ourselves, we can begin to understand with “the Eye of the Heart,” which he mentions in the video. Turning to the subject of formal, traditional religions and their purpose to offer the possibility of salvation to all of their adherents, Schuon says of the Greek philosopher Plato, “With Plato, you cannot save everybody. But with a religion you can save the last man. It is not necessary to be intelligent to be saved.” Here, Schuon is using “intelligent” to mean “scholarly,” “learned,” or “adept in philosophy.” His writings make it clear that he respects, for example, the words of an American Indian sage without formal education as much as the writings of a great philosopher. Finally, Frithjof Schuon explains that the reason for metaphysics is “because there are metaphysicians.” He says this to show that he and many others are “drawn to God through metaphysical truth,” thus specifying that certain people find their religious vocation through philosophical concepts. Personally, and in his writings, Schuon always emphasized that one must follow the practices of a traditional religion, which he himself did throughout his life. Here he points out that some people find their strongest attraction to God, and then their deepest participation in religious rites, as a result of the one Truth that underlies all religion. In his case, the Truth spoke to him through metaphysics and he had the gift to put this into thoughts he communicated through his writings. It is notable that Frithjof Schuon was also attracted to the Truth in its earthly manifestation as visual or even auditory Beauty. His paintings and poetry reflect precisely that. These have been possibilities that have inspired many others in history to delve into religion and spirituality, even if metaphysics was not their destined entry-point.
American Indian Qualities
Frithjof Schuon speaks about the qualities he admires in the American Indian culture and spirituality. Schuon (1907–1998) was a philosopher, author, artist, and poet. He frequently wrote about American Indian religion, culture, and society. Many of his paintings also portray the world of the American Indians of the pre-reservation days, always with an emphasis on capturing the Presence of the Great Spirit in the people, their lifeways, their art, and their place in Nature.
Frithjof Schuon speaks on the topic of Beauty
Philosopher and author Frithjof Schuon (1907–1998) speaks about the metaphysical (i.e. divine) origin of manifested beauty, and the importance of beauty in our lives. He begins: “Man needs beauty and he needs also symbolism.” Schuon explains that although human beings may put themselves to study or think about metaphysics, they, as human beings, will also feel a need to assimilate it or to incorporate it into themselves at a non-discursive, deeper level. This is done through openness to symbolism, which is the portal through which the Beauty of metaphysical Realities steps into consciousness, our souls. Our receptivity to symbolism reveals to our attentive senses the full Beauty that lives within so many things that we encounter in our everyday lives.
American Indian Elders Speak on Their Traditions and Challenges
00:11 Government Oppression and Cultural Preservation 13:21 Tribal and Spiritual Life 18:10 Advice for Living in Two Worlds These are excerpts from the World Wisdom 2-DVD set “Native Spirit and The Sun Dance Way.” The content is divided into three sections: “Government Oppression and Cultural Preservation,” “Tribal and Spiritual Life,” and “Advice for Living in Two Worlds.” Throughout the video, American Indian elders share their thoughts on the oppression that has faced Native American for centuries, and how their peoples have kept many of their cultural and spiritual traditions alive despite the tremendous challenges that continue to this day. The numerous participants in the project come from many different tribes and professional backgrounds — some are educators and authors, others engage in social work, and others are ranchers. This is one of the most concise and comprehensive treatments of the central issue of the presentation: how current-day First Peoples must manage to live in two worlds for their precious lifeways to survive.
Frithjof Schuon (1907-1998) summarizes his essential philosophy.
In 1991, Swiss philosopher Frithjof Schuon (1907-1998) met with a newspaper journalist for an extended interview conducted in English. This section of the interview covers Mr Schuon’s response to a request to summarize the most essential aspects of his philosophy. This is a very concise introduction to Frithjof Schuon’s philosophy and his resulting advice to spiritual seekers.
Frithjof Schuon’s wife, Catherine Schuon, on how he came to see the transcendent unity of religions
In this clip from the 2-disk DVD set “Frithjof Schuon: Messenger of the Perennial Philosophy,” including comments from his wife, Catherine Schuon, we explore some of Schuon’s earliest experiences that led to his later writings on the transcendent unity of religions.
Johann Jakob Jenny describes the spiritual influence that Frithjof Schuon had on childhood friends
An excerpt from the 2-DVD disk set “Frithjof Schuon: Messenger of the Perennial Philosophy-DVD”, from 2012. In this clip, the second of two from Johann Jakob Jenny, we hear his account of some memories of his boyhood friend Frithjof Schuon. In particular, Jenny’s recollections here focus on youthful indications of Schuon’s spiritual nature. Johann Jakob Jenny (1907 – 1997), was one of Frithjof Schuon’s schoolmates in Basle, Switzerland and remained one of his closest and lifelong friends. Jenny later became a medical doctor and continued to live in Basle for the remainder of his life. This clip was taped in 1993 in Basle.
Johann Jakob Jenny recounts his childhood experiences as a friend of Frithjof Schuon
A video excerpt from the 2-DVD disk set “Frithjof Schuon: Messenger of the Perennial Philosophy-DVD”, from 2012. In this clip (the first of two), we hear from Johann Jakob Jenny (1907 – 1997), who was one of Frithjof Schuon’s schoolmates in Basle, Switzerland and remained one of Schuon’s closest and lifelong friends. He became a medical doctor and continued to live in Basle for the remainder of his life. Dr. Jenny’s 1993 film interviews in Basle record many recollections from his childhood and youth concerning his close friend, Frithjof Schuon.
James Trosper explains the importance of the old stories
James Trosper details how old stories from the elders of his people have traditionally been used to instill important values in the life and ways of American Indian tribes. This clip is from Disc 1, in the section “Conversations With Native Elders,” on the DVD “Native Spirit and The Sun Dance Way” (World Wisdom, 2007). James Trosper is a respected voice on traditional Plains Indian spirituality. He is Medicine Man and Sun Dance chief of the Shoshone Tribe in Fort Washakie, Wyoming. He is a direct descendant of the great Eastern Shoshone chief, Washakie. Mr. Trosper has traveled throughout America, assisting in the continuation of American Indian religious traditions, and explaining the Sun Dance religion of the Plains and Indian spirituality to Indian and white audiences for many years.
James Trosper on Year-Round Sun Dance Responsibilities
James Trosper emphasizes the importance for Sun Dance participants to maintain other spiritual practices beyond the Sun Dance itself. In the Sun Dance religion of various Plains tribes, the Sun Dance rite itself must be both preceded and followed by other contributory practices for full spiritual effectiveness. This clip is from Disc 1, in the section “Conversations With Native Elders,” on the DVD “Native Spirit and The Sun Dance Way” (World Wisdom, 2007). James Trosper is a respected voice on traditional Plains Indian spirituality. He is Medicine Man and Sun Dance chief of the Shoshone Tribe in Fort Washakie, Wyoming. He is a direct descendant of the great Eastern Shoshone chief, Washakie. Mr. Trosper has traveled throughout America, assisting in the continuation of American Indian religious traditions, and explaining the Sun Dance religion of the Plains and Indian spirituality to Indian and white audiences for many years.
Advice from American Indian Elders for Living in Two Worlds
Native leaders, including Janine Pease, James Trosper, Arvol Looking Horse, Joe Medicine Crow, and the late Gordon Tootoosis, give advice about how to live in two conflicting worlds: the world of traditional American Indian values and our fast-paced modern world. These are excerpts from Disc 1, in the section “Advice for Living in Two Worlds” on the DVD “Native Spirit and The Sun Dance Way” (World Wisdom, 2007). The complete section on the disc is about 12 minutes long.
James Trosper on the challenges to their survival that American Indians have faced
James Trosper cites some of the many historical challenges to their survival that have been faced by his tribe (Shoshone) and other American Indian tribes. He also explains what it is that has permitted them to survive as tribes up until the present day.
This clip is from Disc 1, in the section “Conversations With Native Elders,” on the DVD “Native Spirit and The Sun Dance Way” (World Wisdom, 2007).
Mr. Trosper is a respected voice on traditional Plains Indian spirituality. He is Medicine Man and Sun Dance chief of the Shoshone Tribe in Fort Washakie, Wyoming. He is a direct descendant of the great Eastern Shoshone chief, Washakie. Mr. Trosper has traveled throughout America, assisting in the continuation of American Indian religious traditions, and explaining the Sun Dance religion of the Plains and Indian spirituality to Indian and white audiences for many years.
James Trosper on the significance of the buffalo in Native American life and ceremonies
James Trosper explains the significance of the buffalo in Native American life and ceremonies, especially in the Sun Dance. This is another clip from Disc 1 (in the section “Conversations With Native Elders”) on the 2-disc DVD set “Native Spirit and The Sun Dance Way” (World Wisdom, 2007). Mr. Trosper is a respected voice on traditional Plains Indian spirituality. He is Medicine Man and Sun Dance chief of the Shoshone Tribe in Fort Washakie, Wyoming. He is a direct descendant of the great Eastern Shoshone chief, Washakie. Mr. Trosper has traveled throughout America, assisting in the continuation of American Indian religious traditions, and explaining the Sun Dance religion of the Plains and Indian spirituality to Indian and white audiences for many years.
James Trosper discusses his people’s traditional focus on spiritual things
James Trosper speaks on a central aspect of traditional Indian life: its focus on spiritual things. This clip is from Disc 1, in the section “Conversations With Native Elders,” on the DVD “Native Spirit and The Sun Dance Way” (World Wisdom, 2007). Mr. Trosper is a respected voice on traditional Plains Indian spirituality. He is Medicine Man and Sun Dance chief of the Shoshone Tribe in Fort Washakie, Wyoming. He is a direct descendant of the great Eastern Shoshone chief, Washakie. Mr. Trosper has traveled throughout America, assisting in the continuation of American Indian religious traditions, and explaining the Sun Dance religion of the Plains and Indian spirituality to Indian and white audiences for many years.
“Spirit of the Earth” — the book trailer from World Wisdom Books
“Spirit of the Earth: Indian Voices on Nature” (ISBN: 978-1-936597-54-3) is a compact book of quotations on the beauty and meaning of nature from men and women of nearly 50 North American tribes. The illustrations include historical photographs of American Indians, as well as a wide selection of contemporary photographs showing the diversity of North American landscapes. These quotations and photographs together convey something of nature’s timeless message. This message can be summed up in the well-known Sioux phrase often used in prayer: “We are all related.”
Origins of the Perennial Philosophy School of Thought
This is an overview, from World Wisdom Books, of the school of thought called the Perennialist School. Besides establishing some basic definitions, the overview is intended to provide some answers to these questions: What is the Perennial Philosophy? What are its fundamental concepts? How did this school of thought come into existence? Who are the founders of the school, and who are some of the other important Perennialist authors who have followed them? What topics have these authors explored? What is the point of view of the Perennial Philosophy regarding the modern world and its religious traditions? How is Perennialist thought represented in modern-day American academia? Why do Perennialists tend to prefer an alternative approach to interfaith dialogue? Written and directed by Jennifer Casey Produced by Michael Oren Fitzgerald Narrated by Wes Lasher and Luke Casey Online editing and audio mix by Wes Lasher TOPICS COVERED: 00:01 Origins of the Perennialist School 06:29 Tradition and the Perennial Philosophy 11:58 The Perennialist School of Thought 13:34 The Founders 23:30 Other Perennialist Authors 35:01 The Perennial Philosophy in Modern Academia 46:37 A symbolical demonstration of how the diverse religious traditions are connected to the one Truth, and thus to each other; and a summation of the theme of the video PRESENTERS (in order of appearance): Martin Lings, James Cutsinger, Harry Oldmeadow, Frithjof Schuon, Roger Gaetani, Joseph Fitzgerald, Jean-Claude Petitpierre, William Stoddart, Rama Coomaraswamy, Huston Smith, Seyyed Hossein Nasr, Mark Perry, Patrick Laude
Martin Lings speaks of his impressions on first meeting Frithjof Schuon
Dr. Martin Lings (1909-2005) was a perennialist/traditionalist writer, editor and translator, as well as a scholar and teacher of Islamic mysticism (Sufism) and art, and of Shakespeare. He was Keeper of Oriental Manuscripts at the British Museum and the British Library for many years. Martin Lings was also a long-time associate of both Frithjof Schuon (1907-1998) and René Guénon (1886-1951). In this clip, Lings shares his powerful impressions upon meeting Schuon for the first time. He also shares Guénon’s comments to him regarding Schuon’s spiritual station. This video was made in December, 1992 or January 1993.
James Cutsinger discusses the state of “perennialist scholarship” in academia today
Professor James S. Cutsinger (1953 – 2020) was an author, editor, and teacher whose writings focus primarily on Perennialism and the theology and spirituality of the Christian East. He was professor of Theology and Religious Thought at the University of South Carolina. In this clip, Dr. Cutsinger compares what he calls “Perennialist scholarship” to other prevailing approaches to religious study in the academic world.
Jean-Louis Michon on “The ‘True Man’ : Myth or Reality?”
In this video clip, Jean-Louis Michon discusses the concept of “True Man” or “Universal Man,” a concept that is familiar to the esoteric traditions of the world’s great religions. It refers to the state of primordial perfection that a person can attain through spiritual practice and grace. In addition, Dr. Michon includes anecdotes, which are often humorous, about his own spiritual quest and about som remarkable people who may have attained that state and whom he was able to meet during his long life and travels. The late Dr. Jean-Louis Michon (1924-2013) was a French traditionalist writer, editor, translator, Arabist, and artistic consultant who specialized in Islam in North Africa, Islamic art, and Sufism. This video is from Dr. Michon’s presentation at the 2006 conference “Tradition in the Modern World,” which was convened by the traditionalist journal “Sacred Web” in Edmonton, Canada. The conference featured presentations from many of the world’s leading traditionalists/perennialists such as Seyyed Hossein Nasr, Huston Smith, James S. Cutsinger, Reza Shah-Kazemi, and others. Many presentations from the conference, including this one by Dr. Jean-Louis Michon, are on DVD: “Tradition in the Modern World: Sacred Web 2006 Conference”. For more biographical information on Dr. Jean-Louis Michon, click here.
John Arlee on American Indian prayer and ceremonies
Salish traditional spiritual leader and teacher, and author, John Arlee shares his thoughts on how the ceremonies and prayers of all the tribes tie them to the Creator and to each other. M\For more on John Arlee, click here.
Gordon Tootoosis on the importance of traditions to Indians
Actor Gordon Tootoosis speaks on the importance of Indian traditions, which teach people about “learning how to live,” in contrast to education in schools, which teaches how to make a living. Mr. Tootoosis explains why he has chosen to live on a Canadian reservation, rather than in Los Angeles, where acting work is more available. For more on Gordon Tootoosis, click here.
Thomas Yellowtail on “Traditional Prayer”
Born in 1903, Medicine man and Sun Dance chief Thomas Yellowtail was a pivotal figure in Crow tribal life in the 20th century. In this clip, Yellowtail speaks about how his Crow ancestors used to pray and highlights that American Indians had their own effective manner of praying before the whites came. For more on Thomas Yellowtail, click here.
James Trosper on the function of the eagle in Shoshone rites
James Trosper is Medicine Man and Sun Dance chief of the Shoshone Tribe on the Wind River Indian Reservation in Fort Washakie, Wyoming. In this clip he speaks about the function of the eagle in Shoshone rites such as the Sun Dance. For more on James Trosper, see his page here.
Jean-Claude Petitpierre describes some spiritual qualities of his friend Frithjof Schuon
Jean-Claude Petitpierre (d. 2012) was a Swiss Traditionalist/Perennialist. He had long associations with Frithjof Schuon, Titus Burckhardt, Martin Lings, and other important authors of Perennialist works. In this short clip, he describes some of the spiritual qualities of his friend, the late Frithjof Schuon (1907-1998).
Patrick Laude discusses the intended audience for Frithjof Schuon’s writings
Philosopher, writer, editor, and educator Patrick Laude says that philosopher and metaphysician wrote for people attracted to metaphysics and profound thought and for people who are convinced of the exclusive truth of their own religions. Prof. Laude mentions Schuon’s own comment that he would consider himself successful (as a writer) if his work had led even just a few people to rediscover the primacy of prayer.
Patrick Laude on “Who Was Frithjof Schuon?”
Philosopher, writer, editor, and educator Patrick Laude answers the question, “Who Was Frithjof Schuon?” Laude discusses writer and metaphysician Frithjof Schuon, explaining that Schuon lived his life based on principles and the love of wisdom, that he was a man of prayer, and that he sought to nourish the spiritual lives of others. Prof. Laude goes on to discuss Schuon’s approach as a painter.
James Cutsinger on “What all Religions Have in Common”
Prof. James S. Cutsinger explains that all religions share four things: Truth, Virtue, Beauty, and prayer. This short clip summarizes four foundational components that are found across all traditional religions, as is often highlighted in the work of Schuon regarding the Perennial Philosophy or transcendent unity of religions.
Jean-Louis Michon on René Guénon and Martin Lings
The late Jean-Louis Michon recalls how Martin Lings introduced him to René Guénon (Shaykh Abdul Wahid) in 1947 in Cairo. Dr. Michon also recalls the beautiful surroundings of the little village near the pyramids in Giza where Lings lived at that time and goes on to discuss Lings’ role as a private secretary for Guénon.
Frithjof Schuon DVD Biography clip 3
An excerpt from the 2-disc DVD Set containing a 115 minute documentary on the life of Frithjof Schuon, and an additional 80+ minutes of special features. These clips focus on Schuon’s accentuation of the necessity for beauty in our lives based on the the metaphysical origins of beauty and its existence everywhere.
Frithjof Schuon DVD Biography clip 4
An excerpt from the 2-disc DVD Set containing a 115 minute documentary on the life of Frithjof Schuon, and an additional 80+ minutes of special features.
