Mooji (Anthony Paul Moo-Young)

What are some criticisms of Mooji and his teaching?

Mooji, a spiritual teacher of Advaita Vedanta, has gained a large following and is highly regarded by many for his teachings on self-realization and non-duality. However, like any other spiritual teacher, he has also faced criticism from some individuals and groups. Some of the main criticisms of Mooji and his teaching are as follows:

  1. Lack of originality: One of the main criticisms of Mooji is that his teachings are not original and are heavily influenced by other spiritual teachers, particularly his guru Papaji and the Advaita Vedanta tradition. Some critics argue that he simply regurgitates the teachings of others without offering any new insights or perspectives.

  2. Cult-like behavior: Some former followers of Mooji have accused him of exhibiting cult-like behavior, such as controlling and manipulating his followers, creating a sense of dependency, and discouraging critical thinking and questioning. There have also been allegations of financial exploitation and sexual misconduct by Mooji and his close associates.

  3. Overemphasis on positive thinking: Another criticism of Mooji is that he places too much emphasis on positive thinking and the law of attraction, which some argue can lead to a denial of negative emotions and experiences. This can be harmful as it suppresses important aspects of the human experience and can prevent individuals from addressing and resolving their issues.

  4. Lack of inclusivity: While Mooji's teachings are based on the principle of non-duality and the idea that we are all one, some critics argue that his teachings are not inclusive enough and do not address issues of race, gender, and social justice. This can be seen in the lack of diversity among his followers and the lack of representation of marginalized communities in his teachings.

  5. Lack of practical guidance: Mooji's teachings are often criticized for being too abstract and lacking practical guidance for individuals to apply in their daily lives. Some argue that his teachings are more focused on the intellectual understanding of non-duality rather than providing practical tools for self-realization.

In conclusion, while Mooji has a large following and has helped many individuals on their spiritual journey, his teachings have also faced criticism from various sources. It is important for individuals to critically examine any spiritual teacher and their teachings before fully embracing them.