Origins of the School
Founded on a Search for Truth
The School was founded in London by Leon MacLaren (1910–1994), who began his journey at age 16 with a deep desire to discover truth and justice.
Originally focused on economics during the Great Depression, his studies led him to explore society and the deeper nature of human beings.
Meeting the Tradition of Advaita
In 1965, a major shift occurred when Leon MacLaren was introduced to meditation and met Śrī Śāntānanda Sarasvatī, the Śańkarācārya of the North.
Their regular conversations (1965–1993) formed the basis of the School’s understanding of Advaita - a path of non-duality.
Advaita Vedanta
The philosophic enquiry and study in the School is directed towards the understanding of the unity which underlies everyone and everything. The philosophy is known as Advaita Vedanta (Advaita is a Sanskrit word which means “not two”).
The essence of Advaita Vedanta philosophy is that in the ultimate analysis there is no difference between human consciousness and the universal creative consciousness and that practical realisation of this unity is possible through reason.
Advaita Vedanta is a tradition that was not initiated by any particular authority, so it never became a religion. It is left to the individual to enquire into the nature of the universe, his own identity and his equitable relationship with the universal forces.
This ancient tradition is not a religion, but it sheds the light of truth on all religions and philosophies. And all religions and philosophies partake of its light in some degree.
Wisdom Shared Through Tradition
Leon MacLaren's discourses with the then Śańkarācārya of the North, Śrī Śāntānanda Sarasvatī, formed the basis of the School’s understanding of Advaita. From him the School gained access to the transcending wisdom of Advaita Philosophy which enlightens both eastern and western minds.
Śrī Śāntānanda Sarasvatī, a spiritual teacher and Sannyāsin, shared timeless teachings that bridge Eastern and Western understanding.
Today, these dialogues continue between Leon MacLaren’s successor, Donald Lambie, and the current Śańkarācārya of the North, Śrī Vāsudevānanda Sarasvatī.
