The preamble of this book describes a world with stagnant educational systems that have historically ignored enlightenment, wisdom, and virtues in favor of the single-minded acquisition of knowledge. The result is that global educational systems desperately need innovative transformation. Societal and technological advancements have resulted in subsequent educational revolutions and reform movements that have significantly contributed to the progression of human intellect. Despite these advancements, humanity has yet to fully satisfy the two foundational principles of education: promoting goodness and expanding human intelligence, reasoning, and understanding. Against this backdrop, the Study of Five Illuminating Wisdoms “emerges as a revolutionary framework…capable of transcending cultural, geographic, and philosophical boundaries. It bridges ancient wisdom and modern practice, offering a holistic and adaptable model for education.”

A socially diverse community of ancient Indian ascetics called the Shramanas is thought to have originally conceptualized the Study of Five Illuminating Wisdoms, which include linguistic clarity, artisanal enlightenment, medical insight, causal intuition, and inner enlightenment. It is further believed that before renouncing worldly life to practice asceticism, the Buddha studied and engaged in activities encompassing the Five Illuminating Wisdoms. The author endeavors to expand the teaching of these wisdoms beyond the secret world of ascetics, incorporating them into secular education. If even a small percentage of morally principled, skilled individuals become world leaders, this could potentially transform mankind into a new humanity and foster a new world civilization.

SAMO delivers an intelligent, insightful, and thought-provoking discussion of modern society and the potential role of education in healing societal ills. The author’s academic writing style effectively establishes historical context and imparts philosophical and educational concepts such as integrated education. He blends religious, cultural, historical, and philosophical elements to make an astute argument for the feasibility of incorporating the Study of Five Illuminating Wisdoms into secular education systems around the world. The book offers an in-depth look at the characteristics and universal principles inherent to the five types of wisdom, providing a detailed explanation as to how these ancient wisdoms can be applied to modern society. Most impressively, this tool book goes far beyond mere philosophical theorizing about the potential effectiveness of establishing a new framework for universal education. It provides a comprehensive, practical blueprint for teaching the Five Illuminating Wisdoms within existing educational models and curricula. It also includes an extensive study of the link between Buddha Dharma and the Study of Five Illuminating Wisdoms.

Despite the academic nature of the book’s contents, the author writes from a first-person point of view that clearly conveys his passionate conviction in the Study of Five Illuminating Wisdoms. SAMO exudes a rare but engaging combination of scholarly authority, philosophic wisdom, spiritual piety, and endearing idealism. He extols the universal values beneficial to all humanity—freedom, human rights, benevolence, justice, altruism, and understanding truth. He also paints a vivid picture of the possibilities for a new humanity, re-establishing a foundation in virtue, wisdom, compassion, and awakened consciousness. This book is an excellent resource for educators and leaders responsible for shaping the next generation. All readers will benefit from this source of inspiration and hope for the future of humanity.

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