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Spirituelle Kurzfilme:
Teachings, Inspirations, Motivations
von John David
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What does it mean to be a Sannyasin in today’s world? And how can this deep inner alignment be lived within the context of a modern ashram like the Open Sky House – a center for inner transformation in the heart of Europe?
The word Sannyas comes from ancient Sanskrit and means “renunciation” or “turning toward the Higher.” In the tradition of Advaita Vedanta (Non-Duality), it signifies leaving behind worldly pursuits and fully turning toward truth and inner freedom.
It is not about striving for external things or fulfilling social expectations, but about listening to the inner compass, to intuition – or, as John David calls it in a contemporary context: to universal intelligence.
In India, such a way of life is still respected and supported by society today – spirituality is regarded there as the highest possibility for human evolution. Many so-called Sadhus (or Sannyasins) live around sacred places and are supported by society with food, medicine, money, and shelter.
>> Fancy a pilgrimage to India?
In our Western, materialistic society, however, such a path is often seen as escapism, religious delusion, or even failure – as only material success seems to hold real value.
For a long time, the church was the only socially accepted framework for a spiritual path. But with the rising popularity of yoga and meditation, a gradual shift in society is beginning to take place. Ecological crises are also raising questions about harmonious living and the deeper meaning of life. Yet only a few dare to detach from the consumer society and follow a different path. Even alternative communities or lifestyles like eco-villages rarely place inner work at the center of their way of living together.
What is missing are accepted models for a life path for modern Sannyasins – people who understand that their own inner work is the highest priority and the most effective way to bring more harmony to this planet.
Osho, one of the most influential and revolutionary spiritual teachers of the 20th century, gave the term Sannyas a new, vibrant meaning. For him, a Sannyasin was not an ascetic in a cave, but a conscious human being who lives fully in the world – with depth, love, and awareness.
His worldwide movement was wild, colorful, human, meditative – honest, ecstatic, and full of authenticity.
John David, spiritual teacher and founder of the Open Sky House, was himself a Sannyasin with Osho in the 1980s. This time deeply shaped him. The intensity of the meditations, the communal living, and the uncompromising dedication to truth left a lasting impact on him and his work with people.
He saw Osho as a revolutionary who made spirituality tangible, experiential, and desirable for the Western mind.
A later encounter with Papaji – a direct disciple of Sri Ramana Maharshi – led to his self-realization.
Since then, John David has been living the essence of Sannyas: “Turning towards the Higher.” His realization continues to deepen and manifests as a playful, loving, rebellious, and deeply transformative energy with which he inspires and shapes the Open Sky House. Here at the Open Sky House, what is meant by Sannyas becomes tangible – even palpable.
At the Open Sky House, people live who are fully dedicated to their inner growth and freedom. Every sincere seeker is welcome.
Here, Sannyas is not an identity – it is an attitude:
A life of awareness and inner truth
Letting go of patterns and roles: becoming authentic
Deep surrender to the present moment, releasing past and future
Community as a mirror: sharing love, giving feedback, supporting one another
Meditation, silence – but also dance, music, and creative expression create a vibrant and joyful daily flow in the spirit of Karma Yoga
You don’t have to do or be anything special to connect with the energy of the Open Sky House – what matters is your authentic “yes” to the inner path.
We always welcome visitors and new residents – people who want to experience meditation and spiritual community, who seek God, and who long to be free.
The Open Sky House is here for all who wish to transform their lives.
At Open Sky House, people live who are fully dedicated to their inner development and freedom. Every sincere seeker is welcome.
A modern Sannyasin is someone who fully surrenders to life – in stillness and in movement, in solitude and in community.
Not a follower – but someone who seeks the truth within themselves. People who are ready to let go of identifications, roles, and control, and instead listen to their inner compass – their intuition – and live from their innate power.
At the Open Sky House, we follow no doctrine. Teachings are not words – they are alive. In every moment. In every encounter.
If you feel called, we warmly invite you to visit our ashram, the Open Sky House – for a retreat, a time-out, or simply a shared lunch!
We offer a 7-day Transformation Week where you can discover a way of living that supports and nourishes your search for freedom and love.
You are welcome – just as you are.
