A. Hameed Ali, known by the pen name A. H. Almaas, was born in Kuwait in 1944. At age 18, he moved to the United States to study physics at the University of California, Berkeley. During his doctoral studies, he experienced what he later described as a psychological and spiritual shift. He subsequently left his scientific career to focus on spiritual teaching and the development of what became known as the Diamond Approach.
In 1976, Ali founded the Ridhwan School to support the teaching of this method. The Diamond Approach is based on the concept of “Essence,” which Ali defines as the true, personal nature of the soul. Its central practice is “Inquiry,” a method that combines elements of the Socratic method with phenomenological and psychodynamic exploration. Participants are encouraged to examine their internal experiences in order to identify what the teaching calls “Holes,” described as psychological deficiencies formed through ego development, and to reconnect with “Essential Aspects” understood to have been lost during childhood. Practices may include physical grounding techniques, such as focusing attention on the “kath center” in the belly.
Over time, the Ridhwan School developed into a network of ongoing spiritual groups across North America, Europe, and Australia. The organization operates through long-term participation and does not offer a formal concept of “graduation.” Students often remain involved for decades, engaging in “inner work” through both small and large group meetings. The structure places Ali in the role of “spiritual head,” and the school maintains a hierarchical framework.
As the organization expanded, critiques emerged regarding its structure and practices. Some observers have described elements of the Diamond Approach and the Ridhwan School as resembling high-control group dynamics. These critiques include claims of a personality-centered culture focused on Ali, with some former participants alleging what they term “guru-itis.” Critics also point to passages in his writings that they interpret as presenting the method as a uniquely effective path to truth and requiring strong commitment from students. The expectation of long-term, exclusive engagement with the school’s curriculum is cited by some as a potential concern.
Financial considerations have also been raised. Fees for retreats, private sessions with Ridhwan teachers, and ongoing group participation have been described by some as expensive. Certain observers characterize the program as a structured use of therapeutic techniques offered at premium rates. Additionally, the school’s guidance that students focus primarily on Ridhwan materials has been viewed by some critics as limiting exposure to alternative spiritual frameworks.
At the same time, the Diamond Approach has received support from figures associated with transpersonal psychology, including Ken Wilber and Jack Kornfield. Supporters describe the school as a setting for psychological exploration and spiritual development, and note that Ali has stated that students are encouraged to question the teachings.
Key Sources:
Almaas, A. H. (1998). Essence with the elixir of enlightenment: The Diamond Approach to Inner Realization. Weiser Books.
Davis, J. V., & Almaas, A. H. (1999). The Diamond approach: An Introduction to the Teachings of A.H. Almaas. Shambhala Publications.