George Gurdjieff

Date of Birth: January 13, 1866

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: October 29, 1949

Biography

George Ivanovich Gurdjieff was a Greek-Armenian philosopher, mystic, spiritual teacher, and composer, born around January 13, 1866, in Alexandropol (present-day Gyumri, Armenia). Gurdjieff’s teachings are often referred to as “The Fourth Way,” a spiritual path that integrates the body, emotions, and mind. He believed that humans are not fully conscious and live their lives in a state of “waking sleep.” His ideas were disseminated through his books, such as “Beelzebub’s Tales to His Grandson,” and through his students, including P.D. Ouspensky and Jeanne de Salzmann. Gurdjieff traveled extensively in his youth, seeking wisdom and knowledge from various spiritual traditions. He claimed to have found a unique synthesis of ancient teachings, which he brought to the West. In 1912, Gurdjieff settled in Moscow, where he began to attract followers. After World War I and the Russian Revolution, he moved to France and established the Institute for the Harmonious Development of Man at the Château du Prieuré in Fontainebleau. Gurdjieff’s teachings emphasize the importance of self-awareness and the development of one’s inner potential. He used various methods, including dance, music, and practical work, to help his students achieve greater self-awareness and inner freedom. His influence extended beyond his immediate circle of students, impacting various fields, including psychology, literature, and the arts. Gurdjieff died on October 29, 1949, in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire spiritual seekers and philosophers worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about George Gurdjieff

1. Gurdjieff claimed to have traveled to Central Asia, Egypt, and other parts of the world in search of ancient wisdom.

2. He was a skilled musician and composed several pieces of music, including the “Sacred Dances” or “Movements.”

3. Gurdjieff believed in the concept of “self-remembering,” a practice aimed at achieving higher consciousness.

4. His book “Beelzebub’s Tales to His Grandson” is written in a complex, allegorical style, intended to challenge and awaken the reader’s consciousness.

5. Gurdjieff’s teachings have influenced many notable figures, including the psychologist Carl Jung and the writer Aldous Huxley.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Gurdjieff

1. “Man’s possibilities are very great. You cannot even conceive a shadow of what man is capable of attaining.”

2. “Remember yourself always and everywhere.”

3. “Without struggle, no progress and no result. Every breaking of habit produces a change in the machine.”

4. “A man will renounce any pleasures you like but he will not give up his suffering.”

5. “The first reason for people’s slavery is our ignorance, and above all, our ignorance of ourselves.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Gurdjieff was not known for his material wealth; his highest net worth is difficult to ascertain but was likely modest. His true legacy lies in his philosophical and spiritual contributions rather than financial success.

Children

George Gurdjieff had several children, including a daughter named Dushka Howarth, who played a significant role in preserving and promoting his teachings after his death.