Ep. 49: Scott Edelstein, author of many books, including Sex and the Spiritual Teacher

Scott Edelstein is the author of many books, including Sex and the Spiritual Teacher: Why It Happens, When It’s a Problem, and What We All Can Do, as well as The User’s Guide to Spiritual Teachers. Scott’s writing on spiritual topics has also appeared in Shambhala Sun, Spirituality and Health magazine, American Jewish World, the anthology What About God?, and elsewhere. Since 1978, Scott has studied happily and productively with several spiritual teachers.

As the friend of many spiritual teachers from a variety of traditions, he has also spent much time with them “off duty,” sometimes acting as confidant. Scott’s two most recent books focus on the relationships between spiritual teachers and their students; how such relationships can become strong, nurturing, and safe; and how and why they can easily go awry.

Explore with us in this episode:

What is the difference between a spiritual teacher and other types of spiritual leaders? Why do so many spiritual teachers–perhaps 15% of them–create big trouble? What exactly is discernment, and why is it so important? When working with a spiritual teacher, why is it so important to pay attention to your body? For more information you can read SEX AND THE SPIRITUAL TEACHER and/or THE USER’S GUIDE TO SPIRITUAL TEACHERS. People can learn more about both books at thespiritualteachersite.com. Scott’s article, “What I Wish I’d Known When I Met My First Spiritual Teacher,” has just been published in the new issue of Buddhadharma magazine, at https://www.lionsroar.com/buddhadharma-current-issue/.

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