In recent years over 40,000 people from all over the world have sought enlightenment in the presence of Mother Meera, whom they believe to be the incarnation of the feminine divine. Those who have come before her silent gaze feel charged with power. Mother Meera claims that it is her job to bring new light to all creation.
Martin Goodman, an English-born novelist and journalist, has written a compelling account of his experiences as the official biographer of Mother Meera and as a privileged member of her inner circle. He presents the strange odyssey of this peasant girl from rural India who has become a renowned figure in the West. When Goodman completed his account of Mother Meera, she ordered him to destroy it. He did.
The most interesting part of In Search of the Divine Mother is the author's eventual disenchantment with the guru model of authoritarianism. Although acknowledging Mother Meera's role in his spiritual transformation, he turns away from total devotion to her after she condemns homosexuality. Goodman raises all the right questions about the dangers of spiritual zealotry.