Neville Goddard - Icon Profile | Alexandria
Neville Goddard (1905-1972), born in Barbados and later naturalized as an American citizen, was an influential spiritual philosopher, mystic, and New Thought author who revolutionized metaphysical interpretation through his distinctive approach to scriptural exegesis and consciousness studies. Known simply as "Neville" to his followers, he emerged as a pivotal figure in the mid-20th century spiritual landscape, bridging ancient wisdom traditions with modern psychological insights.
First appearing on the metaphysical lecture circuit in New York City during the 1930s, Goddard's teachings were shaped by his transformative encounter with the enigmatic Ethiopian rabbi known only as Abdullah, who introduced him to an esoteric understanding of scripture and the power of imagination. This period coincided with the broader New Thought movement's expansion, though Goddard's interpretation would prove uniquely revolutionary in its psychological approach to biblical interpretation.
Goddard's philosophy, centered on what he termed "The Law" and "The Promise," represented a radical departure from traditional religious and metaphysical teachings. His core assertion that "imagination creates reality" and that the human imagination is actually the Biblical God consciousness sparked both controversy and devotion among spiritual seekers. Through numerous books, including "The Power of Awareness" (1952) and "Feeling is the Secret" (1956), Goddard articulated a sophisticated system of practical mysticism that influenced countless individuals, including many prominent figures in the human potential movement.
The legacy of Neville Goddard continues to exert a profound influence on contemporary spiritual thought and manifestation practices. His teachings have experienced a remarkable resurgence in the digital age, with new generations discovering his practical approach to consciousness transformation. Modern self-help authors, spiritual teachers, and consciousness researchers frequently reference his work, though often without full attribution. The mysterious elements of his life, including his claimed ability to travel through time in consciousness and his unexplained disappearance from public life in his later years, add an intriguing dimension to his enduring mystique. Goddard's synthesis of psychological insight, biblical interpretation, and practical application remains a testament to the possibility of bridging ancient wisdom with modern understanding.