In ancient times, spiritual life was embraced only with the help of a qualified teacher. Those who accepted assistance were well-guided by those who knew the way. Today, spirituality is no longer esoteric; spiritual teachings and techniques are well publicized and readily accessible. This has the benefit of making spiritual life available to many, but introduces two significant dangers in the bargain: One, the temptation of taking superficial approaches to spirituality, which are relatively ineffectual for the purpose of real liberation; two, the likelihood that some who embark upon the path may take a long way -- or even a wrong way -- inadvertently.

This article explains two pitfalls in approaching spiritual life, and shares an understanding of the spiritual essentials that can change a ineffective approach into an effective one. see article