J. Z. Knight, American New Age teacher and author

Judy Zebra "J. Z." Knight, born Judith Darlene Hampton on March 16, 1946, stands as a prominent American spiritual teacher and author. She is widely recognized for her unique claim of channeling a spiritual entity known as Ramtha, a practice that has defined her public persona and career over several decades.

Knight has made numerous appearances on well-known U.S. television programs, bringing her teachings to a broad audience. These include candid discussions on shows like Larry King and MSNBC, as well as a segment on the classic The Merv Griffin Show, indicating a significant level of public engagement and media interest. Beyond television, her work has also been featured in publications such as Psychology Today. Her philosophical approach and the concept of Ramtha have resonated with various public figures, drawing attention from individuals within the entertainment and political spheres, notably actress Linda Evans and author Shirley MacLaine, both of whom have explored metaphysical concepts.

At the core of Knight's philosophy is the assertion that she bridges ancient wisdom and the profound power of consciousness with the latest discoveries in modern science. She purports to offer a synthesis that provides a deeper understanding of reality. However, these teachings have not been without their detractors. Some of her ideas, particularly those bearing similarities to the work of Shirley MacLaine, faced critical assessment. Mathematician and skeptic Martin Gardner famously dismissed them as "kindergarten metaphysics," questioning their intellectual rigor. Interestingly, Shirley MacLaine herself claimed in one of her books to have been Ramtha's brother in past Atlantean lives, further intertwining their public narratives.

The teachings attributed to Ramtha have drawn considerable scrutiny from the scientific community and skeptics alike, who often challenge the veracity and empirical basis of such spiritual claims. Beyond intellectual criticisms, J. Z. Knight has also faced more severe public condemnation. The Southern Poverty Law Center, a civil rights organization, has specifically criticized Knight for what they described as "homophobic, anti-Catholic, anti-Semitic racist rants," highlighting concerns over the content and implications of some of her public statements and teachings.

Today, J. Z. Knight resides in a substantial 12,800-square-foot (1,190 m2) French chateau-style home situated in Yelm, Washington. From this impressive estate, she continues to teach courses and oversees the operations of Ramtha's School of Enlightenment, an institution dedicated to disseminating the teachings of Ramtha to its students. In her personal life, Knight has been married three times and is the mother of two children, both from her first marriage, which concluded in divorce.

Frequently Asked Questions About J. Z. Knight

Who is J. Z. Knight?

J. Z. Knight, born Judith Darlene Hampton on March 16, 1946, is an American spiritual teacher and author. She is primarily known for her purported ability to channel a spiritual entity named Ramtha.

What is Ramtha?

Ramtha is a spiritual entity that J. Z. Knight claims to channel. Her teachings and the institution she runs, Ramtha's School of Enlightenment, are centered around the wisdom and philosophy attributed to this entity.

What criticisms has J. Z. Knight faced?

J. Z. Knight's teachings have been criticized as "kindergarten metaphysics" by skeptics like Martin Gardner. Additionally, the Southern Poverty Law Center has criticized her for "homophobic, anti-Catholic, anti-Semitic racist rants."

Where does J. Z. Knight live and teach?

J. Z. Knight lives in a large French chateau-style home in Yelm, Washington. From this location, she teaches courses and runs Ramtha's School of Enlightenment.