Here Comes the New Age—Again

Doctrinally speaking, Tolle's writings categorize him as a typical New Ager who advances the same list of beliefs that have long been popular with persons in the Western world who are enamored with the spiritual philosophies of the Eastern world. But Tolle discusses these beliefs in a way that is far removed from how they are usually discussed in New Age circles. Instead of plainly stating his case, he runs his teachings along a circuitous route of emotional appeals, invented words/terms (e.g., the "pain-body"), and even self-contradictory statements.

This is not to say that Tolle is insincere. He often expresses himself using extraordinarily sincere and heartfelt arguments, poignant observations, and deeply personal anecdotes. But sincerity and best intentions are not the issue. Truth is the issue. Is Tolle communicating truth? The answer to that question, surprisingly, is sometimes yes. For instance, on pages 10-11 of A New Earth he correctly notes that humans have "suffered more at the hands of each other than through natural disasters," going so far as to equate human brutality with a kind of madness that takes hold again and again. Then, on page 12, Tolle astutely identifies fear, greed, and the desire for power as prime reasons for the destruction of so many personal relationships. He writes: "They bring about distortion in your perception of other people and yourself. Through them, you misinterpret every situation, leading to misguided action designed to rid you of fear and satisfy your need for more, a bottomless whole that can never be filled."

None of this sounds too problematic. In fact, when it comes to certain issues, Tolle makes some rather interesting and thought-provoking points. But herein lies the problem. His insightful comments, which resonate as true, lull readers into believing that everything else he says is true. This, in turn, leads them to accept without question or pause what he states about: (1) our real identity; (2) the only way to peace and purpose; (3) the substance of truth; (4) the identity of Jesus; and (5) the nature of "God."

Finding the Truth

According to Oprah, the "number one question" people have been asking about Tolle's message is: "Will it interfere with my religious beliefs?" Oprah's response, as expressed through her on-site spiritual advisor, Elizabeth Lesser, has been: "I don't see why it would. It's not a belief system." And under the heading "Religion and A New Earth" at oprah.com, we find another comforting claim: "This online class is not for or against any religion."

But the truth is that A New Earth, along with Oprah's online class, promotes beliefs that contradict the Bible. Tolle's teachings dismiss the most important foundational doctrines of the church! And in reference to one of the Christianity's most sacred beliefs, Oprah herself made the following admission during a special April 9, 2008, edition of The Oprah Show, which featured Tolle's fans praising his teachings: