The Fourth Way

The key to immortality is first living a life worth remembering.

Bruce Lee (1940-1973)

To the best of my knowledge, the term "Fourth Way" was first used by the Armenian Mystic, G. I. Gurdjieff (1877-1949).  The term refers to a pathway or methodology which could lead to a state of higher consciousness (enlightenment) in a person utilizing the technique.  This methodology or system simultaneously utilizes the intellectual, emotional and physical aspects of the practitioner (seeker) to achieve this elevated state of being. This system may be contrasted with three other, more traditional, pathways to achieve a higher conscious state.  These other paths are:

1)  Path of the Yogi - a system which primarily uses the intellectual capabilities of the seeker to achieve a higher level of consciousness.  An example of such an individual who pursued this path to enlightenment would be the well-known spiritual leader Jiddu Krishnamurti (1895-1986).

2)  Path of the Monk - a system which primarily uses the emotional capabilities of the seeker to achieve enlightenment.  An example of such an individual who pursued this path would be the Trappist Monk, Thomas Merton (1915-1968).

3)  Path of the Fakir - a system which primarily uses the physical body of the seeker to achieve an enlightened state.  An example of such an individual who pursued this path would be the martial artist and film star, Bruce Lee (1940-1973).