Near Enemies of the Truth

Avoid the Pitfalls of the Spiritual Life and Become Radically Free

By: Christopher D. Wallis

Narrated by: Christopher Wallis

In his third book, Tantric philosopher and Oxford scholar Dr. Christopher Wallis calls out the seemingly helpful spiritual platitudes dominating our current culture and demonstrates how these "near-truths" can stand in the way of a more radically free and meaningful life—and ultimately, a deeper spiritual awakening.

Rooted in the Asian wisdom traditions, Wallis’s book uncovers why these oft-heard clichés are “near enemies of the truth" that can distract us from real spirituality, and can even cause unnecessary suffering. In asking us to question what we’ve accepted as truth, Wallis reveals how teachings like "you create your own reality" or “become the best version of yourself” may have helped us at one stage in our journey but can ultimately lead us away from self-acceptance and compassion and cause us to prioritize an imagined ideal over true intimacy with reality.

Near Enemies of the Truth offers itself as a guide to the pitfalls of the spiritual life. However, it doesn’t focus on the negative. In each chapter, after pointing out how a spiritual teaching can be construed in a non-beneficial way, Wallis focuses on the ancient wisdom underlying that teaching, which is often obscured by its popular bumper-sticker version. Each chapter contains a supportive insight for your spiritual process and/or for your everyday life, including guided meditations and reflections.

Written in a gentle and encouraging tone, this book offers a wealth of insight and guidance for anyone who finds themselves struggling, reaching a spiritual plateau, or simply seeking a more meaningful way forward. This timely companion will help you think differently and see through the smokescreens to what is true.

©2023 Christopher D. Wallis (P)2023 Christopher D. Wallis

All the title implies, and infinitely more!

Read by the author himself who is a dedicated practitioner and scholar over his life, the work delivers what the title intends while, in my experience, it also acts as a catalyst for deep inquiry, as an aid to cultivate healthier relationships with one’s self and others, and as a living expression of love and compassion. Also, for those acquainted with many aspects of yoga and Eastern traditions, there is a lot of humor woven throughout the teaching. I find myself laughing out loud quite often while listening.

Expert Help for Avoiding Spiritual Deadends

The author narrates his guide to avoiding wrong thinking about navigating the nondual spiritual path. I deeply appreciate how nuanced his arguments are, and what a compassionate teacher he is to challenge wrong thinking in a kind bit thorough way.

Humanity‘a kindness demonstrated

Christoper is a solid guy . Have been familiar with his books , Patreon website .3 yrs now. This new book so kindly explains how to be steady in ur journey. Thanks sirn

A Must-Listen of a Must-Read!

In his 3rd book, Hareesh once again illuminates our being on some of today’s most distorted spiritual teachings so we can see what is true. Thank you for always reading your books and looking forward to more. Definitely a must-listen of a must-read if your goal is to ultimately live a more radically free and meaningful life!

Incredible teachings

This book changed my life!! There is SO much wisdom and I will be rereading it again, at least a few more times! Thank you to all who contributed to these teachings! I am forever grateful.

Direct pointing to non dual awareness

This book is excellent. It points to truth is a very profound way. It also discusses common pitfalls and areas one could get stuck on the spiritual journey. I’ve read a lot of non duality books and this is absolutely one of the best. Kudos to the author for making this subject simple and direct. Thank you for the excellent work and commitment to truth.

Must read for all new age seekers and healers.

Read this before you start a spiritual business, or even launch on your spiritual journey. This will help you avoid the pitfalls of spiritual bypassing that so many are accustomed to in these times. This is completed different than all the other books by the author but a needed book in all libraries. Take back your spiritual beliefs by diving into all these chapters.

Slaughters the Sacred Cows of Pop/Trendy Spirituality

In this book Christopher Wallis takes a surgeon's scalpel to many of the axiomatic truisms of the pop-culture spiritual scene...cutting them to the quick with deep insights. Highly recommend for all mature spiritual practitioners willing to be challenged for the sake of spiritual and psychological growth.

Idea of change

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the audio book. I would have to go back and listen to some of the sections again as English is my second language. The idea of change to realize that you are Universes child, there is only one truth and love is the only way we can bring a sustainable egalitarian society has caught me. I also felt given at least few of the current and historical events were mentioned how come the principle of “ahimsa” that was propagated by Mahatma Gandhi, followed by Rev Martin Luther king (MLK is mentioned) and Nobel Laureate Nelson Mandela movement did not find a place. I am assuming all the values including Ahimsa is a mental construct is what author is alluding to. But that leaves the question of can change be accomplished without a movement which requires an organization. In other words the how to accomplish change may be questioning the teachings of Bhagavad Gita that calls for action to establish Dharma. Please accept my apologies for the ignorance.

A must read/listen

I completely binge listened this book. This is filled to the brim with very insightful teachings that are very applicable in daily life. I highly recommend this book.