As his disciples recollect, Omraam Mikhaël Aïvanhov was always fully present in his activities, which gave them an unusual strength and grace. Some of this elegant simplicity is captured in the video recordings of his lectures. He enters the lecture hall with resolute steps, firmly grasping his cane.

His expression is one of earnest collectedness. He raises his right hand, blessing everyone with solemn intent. His speech flows, transmitting the wisdom won through his own spiritual work and self-transcending labour. His words, charged with charisma, hold his disciples spellbound. He breaks into a smile, radiating a rare gentleness that seems to fill the hall. Or he bursts into an infectious laugh. He gathers his energies again. His eyes seem to scan eternity, and a palpable stillness descends on everyone—a stillness that is archetypally communicated even through the video.

Zen students will have no difficulty in seeing a consummate Zen master before them. Yoga students will undoubtedly see in him a great siddha, or adept of Yoga. Students of magic will see in him a magus of the first order. But beneath all the power and charisma, we can sense a wonderful childlike simplicity, gentleness, honesty, and humility before God.

It is these qualities in Omraam Mikhaël Aïvanhov that are the most attractive to the sensitive heart. One is reminded of the saying by the Sufi adept Abu Sa’id ibn Abi’l-Khayr:

“The true saint goes in and out amongst the people and eats and sleeps with them and buys and sells in the market and marries and takes part in social interactions, and never forgets God for a single moment.”

“Real mystics,” observed Omraam Mikhaël Aïvanhov, “are reasonable, normal people, with orderly, harmonious manners, gestures, and looks.”

Extract from The Mystery of Light by Georg Feuerstein
Chapter2. Omraam Mikhaël Aïvanhov: Visionary, Teacher and Healer