Random Spirituality Articles http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us Soul Choices and The Law of Attraction http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/soul-choices-and-the-law-of-attraction.html http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/soul-choices-and-the-law-of-attraction.html Wed, 02 May 2007 00:00:00 -0500
A belief in Divine right order is knowing that everything that is happening in our life is happening because of what we need to experience in order to grow and change. There is a part of us - our true selves, our souls - that seems to know what it is we need in order to reach that ultimate goal of enlightenment. Therefore, somehow consciously or unconsciously, mostly unconsciously, that part of us orchestrates our life so that certain events happen to support that growth. In addition, many of those events are not necessarily the hardships of life. Is that where your mind went? I am also talking about all the great stuff. Look at how wonderful this is, look at how well this fell into place - look at the great things that I have had.

I am not saying that life is pre-ordained. It is not about something happening that was known before. We know that life is all about the law of attraction and that works on our choice. Therefore, what I am talking about is that our soul, or our highest self, has and makes choices to bring every experience that we need into our life. Breathe with that. If you really truly accept that, what is going to happen in your life?

Isn't that a sense of relief? I called this into my life. I called this here right now because it is the perfect experience for me to get to my next level. Whatever it looks like. We do not define: I like this experience, and I do not like that one. This is a good one, and this is not a good one. That is living two powers - this is Order and this is not. When I like it, it is in Divine Order, and when I don't, well?

Where did that come from? Nothing happens in our life that is not in divine order. Nothing. This is one to ponder. Do I believe that? Einstein once said that the deepest question we could ask ourselves that determines the entire events of our life is the answer to the question, "Do I believe that the universe is a friendly place?"

That is an interesting way of saying, "Do I believe that everything is in perfect order?" It is the same question. Do I believe that the Universe is just going to randomly hand me some bad luck; occasionally I am going to have some things happen that I do not want to happen, because the universe is out to get me? Alternatively, do I believe that I live in a benevolent universe? Do I live under the protection and the absolute knowing that all is Good? That all is God? Everything is perfect. Perfect according to Law that is, not perfect the way I think should be.

How do you know that you really believe that? Some of you are probably saying, "I don't know if I believe that. I'm not sure I believe that." That is something to ponder. It is innate in you to believe. By the way, faith is not a gift that some people have and others do not. It is a gift we all have but we need to experience it by using it. Another one to ponder. It is not something you go out and get; it is something you just use.

So, suppose you decide this week to believe this? What if, just this week only - unless you choose to go beyond that? You choose to believe that every single event, experience, person, conversation, everything that happens is in the perfect divine order to happen. In addition, if you are finding things you do not like, guess who can change them, when you believe you can. If you believe that the universe is doing it to you, and you have no control and there is no order in the universe, then you might as well give up because there is nothing you can do about it. However, if you really believe there is a perfect order and that your soul is experiencing and expressing exactly what you want, you will have a different experience.

Therefore, the way you know you really believe it is that you NEVER complain. (More about that in the next article.)


--
Dr. Toni LaMotta has spoken internationally, authored several books and numerous articles and has served as a consultant and trainer to a variety of corporations. Her experiences range from being a high school teacher to working with some of the top companies, associations, and organizations in the world. She served as a Catholic nun and pastoral associate for 16 years before discovering New Thought and becoming a Science of Mind Minister and Law of Attraction teacher.To contact Dr. Toni for a keynote talk or workshops for your organization go to http://www.tonilamotta.com She is currently living in Sarasota, Florida. Her company, In-Lightened Enterprises, LLC. provides messages that are provocative, challenging your mind and inspiring your heart. They help to illumine false beliefs that may be barriers to growth and give insight to see your own truth. To receive help in applying "The Secret", The Law of Attraction, get your free CD and Newsletter by going to http://www.FreeInspirationalMessages.com



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> How to achieve Astral Projection (OBE) Overnight http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/how-to-achieve-astral-projection-obe-overnight.html http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/how-to-achieve-astral-projection-obe-overnight.html Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Three easy techniques to achieve Astral Projection Overnight

Achieving Astral Projection overnight is as easy as going to bed. There are a few ingredients and three easy techniques you need to cook this up. Needless to mention, if you are an intermediate to expert level in the art of astral projection you might already know these ingredients. However, the hope of jotting this down is to provide a very simple recipe to allow anyone to achieve success literally overnight.


Ingredients List

1. First Ingredient: Everything requires an exchange of Energy

Automobiles need fuel to move, plants need water and sun to grow, even the human body needs energy, in this case food, to function efficiently. That being said, projecting astral projection also requires an exchange of energy, or fuel. The natural question is: What is this fuel and where does it come from?

Firstly, for clarity's sake let's dichotomize this fuel into organic fuel and prana (life force).

The aforementioned fuel is plainly and simply just food. The body needs to be well nourished and healthy to be apt to allocate its precious resources to astral endeavors. If you are weak you won't be able to study, exercise, heal, or operate efficiently, it is no different when it comes to astral projection. That being said, it is possible to overwork or put enough stress on the body to achieve astral projection but this is for obvious reasons counterproductive. A healthy diet works best. Plenty of water and a supplement of B vitamins and magnetite will do wonders. Lemon juice is also an important and accessible part of this equation. It is very important to test, test, and test again. What diet works best for you? What feeding time works best for you?

Attempting to project too soon after dinner will reduce your chances of a projection because of the stress on your digestive system. Substances such as caffeine and alcohol will also act against you. Avoid them during your projections.

The other and more important kind of fuel is prana. This, in a nutshell is an unseen energy that is all around us and permeates everything. This is the energy that ties and binds our universe together. Think of prana as the "Force" from the film Star Wars. Much like organic fuel allows your physical body to operate, prana is what will fuel your "astral probe" and allow "projection". Breathing is by far the easiest and most accessible way of obtaining prana. What's the trick? In order to absorb prana it must be wanted. Turn your lungs, and your body into a loving home for this prana, invite it in and it will come. There are more advance ways of absorbing prana. Specialized meditation techniques, I recommend a specialized chakra meditation that will yield more than enough prana for projections, amongst other benefits.

2. Second Ingredient: Knowledge is Power

The biggest factor ruining aspiring astral projectors all over the planet is fear. And knowledge is the weapon of choice against this treacherous enemy. There are countless articles, books and tapes on the subject. Saturate yourself with the subject. Be logical and don't believe everything you read. There is a great debt of gratitude due to all the trail blazers that have put astral projection in the map, but remember these are regular people trying to explain and talk about an unusual subject. Thus, be wary of misinterpretations. One pearl of knowledge that must be shared and will strike down fear of astral projection is that: You are not out of your body. Yes, you never leave your body while you are projecting. Think about these letters that you are reading. You are experiencing with your sight. These letters are outside your body, yet you are able to perceive and experience them while you remain inside inside your body. It is of great importance to grasp this. It will obliterate ignorant fears commonly associated with astral projection, such as, fear of death, fear of possessions and fear of getting lost outside of your body.

3. Third Ingredient: Practice makes perfect

Who likes to hear this sentence? Not nearly as many as those that like to say it. But, as painful as it sounds, it holds true. Any skill worth having requires you to put in a decent amount of time and effort. Now that your motivation is likely back to zilch allow me to digress to the original point of this article...yes, the overnight part. Hopefully, your motivation is now back to normal levels. The following are three simple and efficient techniques that will project your astral probe literally overnight.

The movement technique:
After a long day of white water rafting I proceeded to lay down in my bed and rest. Interestingly, laying there in a relaxed state, I couldn't help but notice that the movement of the raft moving down the river had stayed with me. I went with it for a while and as soon as my brain was convinced of the reality of this movement it was tricked into achieving it. Before I knew it my astral probe was inches away from my bedroom wall as I lay in bed. After discovering this purely by accident I experimented with other variations of movement, such as, jogging, swimming and even driving a car with great success.

The "feels like technique":
This is a very powerful technique, and for the purpose of astral projection you might want to think of it as visualization on steroids. Using this technique, is the only way I have been able to project while completely awake. In a nutshell, you will pick a room in your house; the bathroom seems to work best. Lie down and relax in your bedroom. Now as you lay there, relaxing and getting comfortable start to picture your bathroom in your mind's eye. If you are anything like me, your first attempts at visualization will be pathetic. Your job is to trick your brain into believing it is in the bathroom, the brain is no fool, and you need to imitate the sensory data the brain expects to receive to the best of your ability. Feel the colors, the brightness, and the texture of the surface. Look at the mirror, the corners of the room, the sink, you get the idea. It is all in the details.

b>
This is my favorite one because it requires the least amount of work. This technique requires you to play around with your normal sleep schedule, so it is not recommended for work or school days. Simply set your alarm clock about three hours earlier than usual. Get up and do some type of task that will require some degree of focus. Read a book, preferably on astral projection, take a walk around your block. Taking a 15 minute drive usually does it for me. Then go back to your warm, comfortable and inviting bed. That is it. I can only speculate that these actions put your brain in a very special state of mind that makes it much more prone to achieve astral projection.

Everything in the universe requires an exchange of energy. Remember that, whether you are writing an article fueled by caffeine or sending an astral probe to the Mexican Riviera powered by prana. Knowledge will set you and your astral probes free. Educate yourself on the subject; it is the only way to dispel ignorance and fear. Be consistent with your practice, anything worth gaining requires effort. And if all this sounds like too much work, at least give "the lazy technique" a try, you might be one of the few lucky natural astral projectors.


--
Higher Balance Institute offers tools for meditation, spiritual development, enhanced intuition and sensory awareness in the world. Our mission is simple - to awaken the world one mind at a time. For more information visit us at www.higherbalance.com.for free eBooks.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> The Tarot – Book of Divination of Gypsies http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/the-tarot-book-of-divination-of-gypsies.html http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/the-tarot-book-of-divination-of-gypsies.html Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Wikipedia: The Tarot (also known as tarocchi, tarock or similar names) is a set of cards typically featuring twenty one trump cards, the fool, and an extra face card per suit, in addition to the usual suit (face and pip) cards found in ordinary playing cards. Tarot cards are used throughout much of Europe to play Tarot card games.

The Tarot is a deck of cards that originated over 500 years ago from northern Italy in 1442. Although the Tarot was first used in a game called Triumphs, it was quickly adopted as a tool for divination, and popularized by occult societies such as the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. The early Tarot symbolism was deeply rooted in Medieval and Renaissance Europe, but over the centuries it has grown to incorporate everything from Astrology and Kabbalah to Runes (which predate the Tarot by 1000 years) and the I Ching (which predates the Tarot by 2500 years). Today, the Tarot is far and away the most popular tool for spiritual introspection in the West.

The Modern Tarot Card, sometimes called “the book of divination of the gypsies,” as a deck consists of 78 cards, each rich with symbolism and psychic meaning. The deck is primarily divided into two groups:

1. Major Arcana – 22 cards with powerful images:
The Fool, The Magician, The High Priestess. The Empress, The Emperor, The Hierophant, The Lovers, The Chariot, Strength, The Hermit, Wheel of Fortune, Justice, The Hanged Man, Death, Temperance, The Devil, The Tower, The Star, The Moon, The Sun, Judgement, and The World.

2. Minor Arcane – 56 cards:
Forty cards in four different suits of ten – traditionally batons or wands, cups, swords, coins or pentacles Sixteen court cards of four per suit: the page, knight, queen, and king.

Tarot Cards are powerful tools for those with the ability to interpret the cards. New Agers use certain practices or methods to "get in touch with their inner spirits," and tarot cards can be a perfect way for them to channel their thoughts and connect with the "Oneness of the Universe."

There are many various manners of consulting the cards for the divination, but they imply most of the time to present the cards after having scrambled and having interpreted the indications of the cards principal symbolic systems in their relationship between them. Tarot card readers say that the tarot can only provide a static "photograph" of a situation, and that our own choices and actions determine our future-not the cards.

There are many secrets to be revealed in the mysterious card, that map of the heavens as they appeared at the card.

Click here => http://www.pezeland.com/horoscope.html

Step by step, we explain the meaning of your horoscope chart in plain English.


--
PZ Lian is an active writer on astrology related topics, and also an active Internet Marketer. His articles are simple, straight forward and easy to understand. His articles have been published all over the well known internet article site. He enjoys helping a wide variety of people understand this ancient and mysterious knowledge of astrology.

Visit to his web site http://www.pezeland.com/horoscope.html for details regarding his support service. He will also show you step by step how to easily use the correct way to understand this mysterious art – astrology.


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> The importance of seventh house in Vedic astrology http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/the-importance-of-seventh-house-in-vedic-astrology.html http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/the-importance-of-seventh-house-in-vedic-astrology.html Sat, 08 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 In the seventh house of Vedic astrology Saptama ; Jamitra ; Chittottha (desire) ; Kama ; Dvuna (love) ; Madha (passion) ; Gamana (cohabitation) ; Astha (setting ; Advan (a way or road ) ; Loka (public) ; Kalathra (wife or husband) ; Pathni; pathi; Kalathrasampat (dowry).

The seventh house is the "House of union or earthy ties". The seventh house represents legal bondage; it is through this that one ought to divine about marriage. Although marriage is principally the concern of the seventh houses, it is necessary to consider the houses 2 and 11 also in this respect.

By marriage, it is meant that there is an addition to the family. The second house includes father, mother, wife, children, etc.The married partner brings permanent tie of friendship for progeny and pleasure which is influenced by the 11th house. Therefore, one has to examine not only the seventh house but also the houses 2nd 11. Houses 2, 7 and 11 connected with benefic planets either by association or by aspect denote that the partner in life will come of a respectable family, be virtuously disposed and will possess good qualities to enable one to lead a happy and harmonious wedded life.

Besides the life partner, the partner in trade or business and the degree of success achieved through such partnership is also shown by this house. The seventh house also refers to all those with whom the native is engaged in quarrels and comes into conflict in the open through arguments, those with whom the native is engaged in quarrels and comes into conflict in the open through arguments, litigation, duels, etc., in a nut shell; the seventh house may be said to indicate all those with whom the native transacts or deals in any manner- the engineer or contractor who builds ; the doctor attending on the native or the patient on whom the native attends if he happens to be a medical practitioner ; the person who lends the native money or he who borrows from the native; and so on. Good aspects to the planet in the seventh house or to the cusp or to the cusp of the seventh house portray good relationship with the public and favor from them. During the period of the planer in evil aspect, one ought to be careful in undertaking any public activity.

This house shows break of journey. The third house signifies short journeys and the ninth hose denotes long journeys. The seventh house indicates visits to various places in one and the same trip.One's influence in foreign countries and the honour and reputation achieved there, depends on the planet in the 7th house and the aspect it receives.

The first house of Vedic astrology denotes longevity while the 7th house opposes and is a maraka house; i.e., danger to longevity. Houses 8, 3 and 1infiunce longevity and one has to examine these three houses to determine whether one will be long-lived, or will live up to the middle age, or only up to the adult age, or die in infancy. The twelfth house to any bhava is said to be negation of that particular bhava, that is to say, it spoils the matters signified by that bhava. Therefore the houses 7, 2 and 12 which are respectively in 12 to houses 8, 3 and I prove inimical to longevity and are so termed 'marakasthanas'.

In prasna or Horary Astrology, this house answers queries relating to the recovery of lost property, describes the thief, pickpockets, etc. the lagna represents the owner of stolen property. The fourth bhava denotes the place of the stolen article. The 7th shows thief. The 8th bhava being 2 to the 7th indicates the thief's wealth. So when the planet in 7 or the lord of 7 is eclipsed or weak, the thief will be caught.The lagna represents one's routine life and thereby permanent place of residence; the seventh house which is the opposite to it shows change of residence. One ought to see the seventh house as will as the third for the change of residence.

In Mundane or politics in Vedic Astrology, the seventh house is considered in matters pertaining to international relationships and arbitrations; war and foreign affairs, international trade, general condition of women and laws relating to marriage and divorce, public reaction to national policies, public meetings, etc. westerners call this the house of open warfare and enmity as well as of treaties and alliances.

The seventh house is also regarded as dealing with the native's third brother or sister. The third house from the lagna indicates the first younger brother or sister; the house which is the third to the third sows the second younger brother; the house which is the third to the 5th house represents the third younger brother or sister. It is also the house of self acquisition of the native's servant or employee, being the 2nd house counted from the 6th representing servants. Because the 5th house shows the first child or conception, the7th which is the 3rd to the 5th represents the first child's younger brother or sister or the native's second child; the 9th denotes the third child and so on in this manner. Being in 4 to the 4th house indicating mother, the 7th house deals with mother's immovable property, vehicle, etc .According to Uttara Kalamritam, the 7th house rules the adopted child. This is understandable because one who is issueless may take his younger brother's child in adoption. This is not uncommon.

The seventh house of vedic astrology also denotes the secret enemy's danger, difficulties, death etc., being in to the 12th house; the religion, long journeys, higher education of friends or elder brother being the 9th reckoned from the 11th house; the honour and credit of the Governments being in 10 to 10; associates and friends of father being the 11th house to the 9th. The native might enter into partnership with his father's friend.

--
Rajendra Raaj Sudhanshu is the astrologer of India who practices “stellar KP system (vedic), on, Medical astrology, Indian astrology, Astro-Vastu, vedic astrology. For more you visit www.sudhanshu.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> Become Who You Were Meant to Be - Now http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/become-who-you-were-meant-to-be-now.html http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/become-who-you-were-meant-to-be-now.html Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0500
Are you on the path that will lead you to your highest calling – to actualize your greatest potentials and give your best to those you love?

What attitudes, beliefs, negative self-statements, inner or external distractions, and unhealthy habits are holding you back?

Decisions you make today, goals and commitments you establish, can and will change your life. Starting today you can become the person you were created to be. Negative programming, destructive thought patterns, and damaged emotions can be changed, rewritten, and healed. This process can start now – in this moment – and continue throughout your life.

No matter how old you are, you aren’t too old to change. Although we are “creatures of habit” who often get stuck in ruts (mental and behavioral patterns that get stronger every time we repeat them), with sufficient motivation and persistence, and with God’s help, we can break free from old habits.

I want to challenge you today to take an honest look at yourself and identify 3 aspects of yourself you wish to improve.

Write down how you want to change – be specific (i.e. – cut down to ½ pack a day over the next two weeks and then stop smoking completely by 4 weeks from today). Whether your goal is to be more productive, or to spend more time with your family, or to develop a more disciplined prayer life:

• Decide how you will know when you have reached your goal.
• What will be a sign that you have arrived?
• What benefits do you hope to obtain?
• Make sure your goals are consistent with long term objectives, realistic, and measurable.

Today’s decisions will be realized in tomorrow’s successes, and a thought or a wish traveling across the synapses of your brain right now could be the impetus that changes your world – perhaps even the whole world.

All things are possible if we believe!

Do you believe? If not, may God help you to believe. Don’t fail to see the infinite possibilities God has placed within your grasp. Jesus said: “If you have the faith of a grain of mustard seed you can move mountains.” What doubts are holding you back? Do you doubt yourself, your calling, your God?

Are you willing to doubt your doubts and begin to believe? Are you willing to make a commitment to change? Listen to the Wind of change within your
soul. Ask and you shall receive! Nothing can stop you when the wind in your sails is the mighty, loving, just Holy Spirit. Jesus is making waves - have you caught the one he made just for you?

--

Specializing in coaching pastors and ministry leaders, Bill is also passionate about assisting clients who are going through any major life transition. He is a creative, compassionate, caring coach who understands the difficult task of balancing personal needs, family, and career.


As a Christian coach, Bill believes in the awesome power that God can release when two or more meet in the name of Jesus.


For free sample session call: 314-712-1754



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> Learn to "dance" with Crystals http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/learn-to-dance-with-crystals.html http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/learn-to-dance-with-crystals.html Fri, 07 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0600 Connecting to Crystals

Learning to connect to or dance with crystals is an easy process and anyone can do it. There are so many different methods, just like the different dances in ballroom dancing, of connecting to the mineral kingdom; however the best way is to find the one that works for you.

You will also find that as you practice you become a "better dancer" and quite soon connecting to or dancing with them becomes second nature.



You may even find you are able to make the connection from across a room or by simply looking at one; in fact you could be aware of a particular crystal the minute you walk into a room, without even seeing it.


Connecting Physically.



  • Start slowly.


  • Choose one of your favorite crystals or one that really talks to you. I always suggest that you start by using single clear quartz terminations.


  • Hold it in your dominant hand and point the termination or point of the crystal into the palm of your other hand. Not touching, hold it about half an inch above the palm of your hand.



  • Slowly rotate the crystal in the area above your palm. Use both a clockwise as well as anti clockwise direction.


  • In time you will begin to feel a slight tickling sensation in your palm.


  • Remember practice makes perfect so as you practice this the sensations will become more intense and soon you will be able to move the gemstone around your hand or up your arm and you will feel the energy of the crystal clearly.



It is very important to note any physical sensations, feelings or thoughts you might have while working with the crystal as not all people experience connecting with gems the same way. Give yourself permission to experience them your way and you will be fascinated by how quickly you learn to interpret what you perceive.


Connecting Spiritually.



  • To begin with use the same crystal that you used for the above exercise.



  • Find a comfortable position where you will not be disturbed for a while.


  • Sit quietly holding the stone in your left hand.


  • Close your eyes, take 3 slow deep breaths, in through the nose and out through the mouth, centering yourself.


  • Now imagine the crystal clearly in your mind. It is important to visualize it clearly. Notice each and every part of the crystal in your mind. Once you have a clear picture of the stone in
    your mind you are ready to move on.


  • While holding the picture in your mind, allow it to grow. Clearly see the gem stone in your mind, notice every part of it and see it growing bigger and bigger until it is as big as a mountain.



  • In your mind's eye, walk up to the mountain of quartz in front of you and touch it with your hand, noticing that there are no boundaries between you and the crystal. Ask that you be allowed you to enter and slowly step into the mountain of quartz.


  • You are now inside the mountain of quartz, look around and see the clarity of the quartz, the many different forms, veils and shapes inside the crystal. Take your time looking around and becoming familiar with the crystal.


  • Relax into the moment, enjoy being one with the stone and see a bright light coming towards you. As this light comes closer, it starts taking shape, trust what you see, perhaps a human, an animal, a tree, or even a being of light. This is the Essence of the Crystal, allow this Essence to become clearer, feel the presence and experience the moment completely.



  • You can now communicate freely with the Essence of the crystal. The fact that you were able to enter the crystal means you have the highest permission to be there. At this point you can ask anything you wish, program the crystal or communicate on any and all levels.


  • When you are finished, simply disconnect by thanking the Essence and withdrawing from the crystal.



For me this particular process is one that leaves a lasting impression. Since you are able to connect to the very Essence and Awareness of the crystal any information or questions you may have is freely shared. Exactly like tuning into a radio station, once you are able to connect to the frequency of the Essence of one you are able to connect to the Essence of any crystal or mineral.


Continued with 
"Dancing the Tango with
your Crystals an Advanced Connection with Crystals"


This article was lovingly penned by Elmarie Swartz, an accomplished Reiki
Master and Crystal Healing practitioner who can be contacted via her
website "Healing-Journeys-energy.com; 
a place where you will a lot more information on healing as well as a unique
opportunity for you.



--
Elmarie Swartz, an accomplished Reiki Master, Crystal and Energy Healing practitioner. For more information on energy healing or to contact Elmarie directly go to
http://www.healing-journeys-energy.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> The Metaphysical View of Death and Life After Death Part 11 http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/the-metaphysical-view-of-death-and-life-after-death-part-11.html http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/the-metaphysical-view-of-death-and-life-after-death-part-11.html Mon, 19 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0600
Summarizing the scientific viewpoint on death and the afterlife--based on years of careful psychical, parapsychological research--the following conclusions have been reached:

1) That humans are essentially immaterial in nature and that the human essence, or self-awareness, survives physical death.

2) That human soul-units exist at differentiated levels of awareness in dimensions beyond the physical light-spectrum, beyond the reach of physical sensory perception.

3) That contact with departed souls is a possible feat under certain conditions and circumstances.

4) That all human soul-units periodically re-embody or reincarnate to continue their evolution.

5) That all re-embody according to the law of causation, or karma; or soul desire.


DISCUSSIONS

As we have seen in the previous chapter, death according to the various traditions, metaphysical experiences and modern scientific discoveries, does not annihilate the human soul; and relationships formed on the physical plane do not cease at the termination of one's incarnation, as is normally believed; also, one's aspirations, goals and ambitions, though simply and seemingly cut-short prematurely at a stroke of the scythe by the grim reaper called death, is actually brought over to the Otherside for a further strategic development that would bloom in a later incarnation. We have also seen that the nature of death and the afterlife can be known to those who are willing to develop the necessary sensory faculties of the astral form and its ability of soul-flight. Additionally, we have dealt somewhat of the nature of heaven and hell, including the Judgment, from the various metaphysical, religious and scientific perspectives. We have described and hinted of some of the ways and means of avoiding those undesired experiences, states and conditions to be found in the bardo, and even in the lower astral. Non-attachment to the physical form and earthly life is helpful in the process of a peaceful and easy transition, and in a smooth journey through the bardo--this ought to be kept in mind. And lastly, with the descriptions by subjects of NDEs and communications from the beyond concerning the death process, we can be assured that dying does not have to entail any mental, emotional or physical agony; on the contrary, it may result in one of the most joyful states that average souls may experience at its present evolutionary level. It provides a certain pre-taste of what the nirvanic state is like when once the soul is liberated and fully aware of its divine unity with All That Is.

Humans may fear death, but "being dead" is actually the present state of awareness of most people. To be unaware of one's higher microcosmic principles is simply a consciousness of death. What separates the seen from the unseen is the level of one's waking consciousness, and the psychological impurities within one's subconscious mind. There are several components in the microcosm making up what we call the divine, human being. The more components we are aware and conscious of, the more alive we become in the spiritual sense. Non-experience of the higher principles and realities do not mean that they do not exist, it is just that the faculty for higher perception has not yet been developed. Fear is what closes the veil to spiritual knowing. When we fear, we circumscribe our consciousness. Fear of the unknown, is the ignorance of the source of our fear. Identification with mortal principles simply perpetuates (or perpetrates?) one's mortal existence as a normal human being--and it also maintains one's fears. We are meant to be perfect--as advised by the Piscean Master--perfect in consciousness, in knowledge, and in awareness. Attaining immortality, or awareness of such, requires the shedding of mortal concepts, beliefs, attitudes and feelings. With such spiritual labour we gradually build the link between the lower and higher principles and ensure the continuity of consciousness, and the awareness of the illusory nature of death. With each extermination of a false concept we become more alive in a spiritual sense. Death, "the last enemy," as declared in scriptures, though inevitable, will be swallowed up in victory when once its maya-nature is understood and the continuity of consciousness acquired. Death will then lose its sting. Death ends when once the multidimensionality of one's being is realized, and when once one's liberation from the wheel of reincarnation is attained. What we call death is an illusion. This is echoed in the words of the Taoist poet, Chuang Tzu:

"Birth is not a beginning, death is not an end."

Fear simply robs individuals of their physical, emotional, mental and spiritual energies--energies which could be used for more constructive and creative purposes. When enlightened of the nature of death, like Socrates, we will not fear it; and this knowledge, understanding, and enlightenment would greatly help humanity to live an abundant life, as promised by Master Jesus. Like a chain effect, the awareness of the non-existence of death and the truth of man's purpose for being would improve the quality, nature, and service of every governmental department and institution, affecting society's consciousness, development and welfare. But to return to the emotion of fear ingrained in Man, there are several principles that assist one to "die" without fear:

1) Non-attachment to physical form, earthly possessions, and relationships.

2) Understanding that death is natural and that it does not end one's aspirations.

3) Understanding and being aware of one's true nature as divine and immortal.

3) Preparation through spiritual practices such as meditation, purification, and the acquisition of merit through service.

4) The unfoldment of love and compassion.

From a higher perspective, death is no enemy. It is a merciful friend that grants us rest at a time when we need it. It provides a moment's respite until we re-engage ourselves in the battle of life through another incarnation with new--or old, unlearned experiences. What is important is the assimilation of experience, for if it does not take place, it will have to be undergone again and again until the lesson inherent in each one is learnt by the soul; this can sometimes prove to be wearisome. Life on earth should not be seen as a chance happening, as a biological occurrence in time and space, or as a chemical formation spawned by chaotic forces. Life is Real, is the only Reality and has a definite purpose. Knowing that life was formed on the earth plane for a purpose encourages the soul to discover that purpose. Soul-objective is known to the awareness-principle at deeper levels of consciousness and at the conscious level prior to incarnation. The purpose or intent of the Spirit, however, is normally forgotten once the "waters of Lethe" is drunk during the process of birthing.

Our main task set by evolution is to be aware or more conscious of the "unconscious" levels of the mind; thus transcending the state of mediocrity or mortality. Mortal beings are not courageous enough to think, contemplate or face the conditions of death, they thus miss the true opportunities that life affords. When one fears death, one has not yet begun to live. "Death" to average individuals, is always thought of in connection with other people and never their own. This refusal to be spiritually-aware bind souls to an unproductie life in the cosmic scheme. This is the complaint of all mystics concerning the sons of men. In the Old Testament we read,

"Man lies down and never rises. They rouse not from their sleep." (Job 14:12)

From what we have said so far, it may be surmised that there are various forms of death, and this is true. St. Paul hints of this when he declared, "I die daily" (I Cor 15:31). We tabulate the forms of death in the following:

1) Death to higher realities and verities

2) Death to a higher awareness of divinity

3) Death of one's slumber in matter

4) Death of the false ego and its carnal, self-centered desires

5) Death of sleep

6) Death of the physical and etheric bodies

7) Death of the astral body

8) Death of the mental form

We will briefly describe each one: death to higher realities and verities, and the death to higher awareness of divinity are related. This is in fact the involutionary path of the soul as it descends for the first time in a new cycle of manifestation, or "manvantara." In involution the soul loses a certain awareness only to regain it with an enhancement during the Path of Return. Most souls prolong this period of ignorance and awareness of higher multidimensional truths by their own free-will.

Death of one's slumber in matter is the awakening of the soul's aspiration to spiritual possibilities--paradoxically, it could also mean being spiritually unconscious; this is followed by the death, or transcendence of the false ego and its expressions in the movement within the evolutionary spiral. The death of sleep occurs every night as the soul takes flight to subtle worlds. Death of the physical and etheric bodies occur when one leaves the present incarnation for the astral world. This is followed by the deaths of the astral and mental forms as the soul rises higher and higher to rest for a period in the causal body before preparing to reincarnate.

Knowledge of the nature of death and the other worlds are important subjects for every metaphysician. As said earlier in this paper, in the course of one's metaphysical ministry, one would often encounter individuals in bereavement requiring comfort and solace. Equipped with a higher understanding of the nature of death and the purpose of life, metaphysicians are in a better position to enlighten humanity, and to fulfill one of their functions as ministers. To Catholics, administering the "Extreme Unction," or the last sacrament to the dying may be considered vital. But to the metaphysician, much more is required to guide the soul through the dying process. With the appropriate knowledge and occult ability, the metaphysician may assist souls in making a more meaningful transition. Deathbed-rites of an occult formula and design, taking the bardo into consideration, are needed by those engaged in the metaphysical field.

The importance and purpose of life should be appended and stressed in those rites as a lesson not only for the departed, but for those who are left behind. An experience of a loss of a beloved one through the portals of death on the part of grieving and confused individuals should be looked upon by metaphysicians as opportunities for the sowing of the seeds of truth into their receptive consciousness. Metaphysicians as farmers in the vineyard of truth should play their part perfectly. By offering various truths concerning the nature of death-truths that are rational, logical, helpful and spiritually stimulating--we improve the whole image of the metaphysical ministry in the minds of the public. The more metaphysicians have to offer to the public as to occult and esoteric knowledge and as to the expressions of their high psychism, the more will the public's awareness be stirred and lifted to a higher plane of consciousness. Metaphysics as a synthesis of religious, spiritual, philosophical, and scientific truths has the capacity to offer what traditional forms of religion, science and modern philosophies are incapable of offering--that is, real help.


SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

In the Introduction of this paper we presented the purpose and the need of why this subject had to be written and discussed--of the importance of its place in the metaphysical ministry as well as its influence upon the individual and society as a whole. This purpose was again stressed in the previous chapter. In order to organize our thoughts regarding the subject, we formulated several themes that would be the basis for the structure of our paper. Our fundamental themes consisted of the following:

1) The survival of personal consciousness

2) The process of transition

3) The nature of life after so-called death

The structure of our findings and of this paper, was based upon four perspectives:

1) Religion/mythology

2) The occult tradition

3) Tibetan Buddhism

4) Parapsychology

From each perspective, we initially dealt with the basic themes from a certain point of view, but ended up with the same findings, the same conclusions, and the same cosmic truths; nevertheless, among the above perspectives, there is still much to be said about religion as a whole that has somewhat misrepresented the spiritual truths as taught by their founders. We are certain, though, that every metaphysician would research into this subject sooner or later as it is mentally and spiritually rewarding. In years to come "death" will be a time of celebration and not a time of mourning as it is now.

Finally, in the fifth chapter, we discussed on humanity's basic psychological problem--that of senseless fear. We have seen how this fear robs man of his or her true life as a divine son or daughter of God living an abundant life in the here and now. We have also briefly discussed how the elimination of the fear of death would transform the individual and society as a whole.

To sublimate and transcend this fear condition that overwhelms society we suggest that additional research be conducted into along the lines of soul-investigation, and into the many other principles of the bardo process not discussed or discovered by Tibetan Lamas. Ways of researching into this should be conducted in a scientific and intuitive manner, though this may not always be through conventional methods. Researchers should not fear probing into the invisible, into the immaterial, or into the abstract. Through research within a single avenue, other possibilities will present themselves. An answer to a single question begets many more questions, ad infinity; thus humanity progresses.

Bibliography

Agrippa, Henry Cornelius 1995 Three Books of Occult Philosophy. Llewellyn Publications, St. Paul, MN.

Bailey, Alice 1972 A Treatise on White Magic. Lucis Publishing Company, London.

Barrie, Donald C. 1991 You Need Not Age Nor Die! Finbarr International, Folkestone, England.

Budge, E.A. Wallis (Trans) 1953 Book of the Dead, The. Routledge & Kegan Paul, Ltd. London.

Chaney, Earlyne 1989 Mystery of Death and Dying, The. Samuel Weiser, York Beach, Maine.

Currie, Ian 1995 You Cannot Die. Element Books Ltd, Dorset, England.

Drolma, Delog Dawa 1995 Delog: Journey to Realms Beyond Death. Padma Publishing, Junction City, CA.

Evans-Wentz, W.Y. (ed) 1975 Tibetan Book of the Dead, The. Oxford University Press, England.

Lauf, Detlief Ingo 1989Secret Doctrines of the Tibetan Books of the Dead. Shambhala Publications, Inc., Dorset, England.

Liverziani, Filipo 1991 Life, Death & Consciousness. Prism Press, Dorset, England.

Lodo, Lama 1987Bardo Teachings: The Way of Death and Rebirth, Snow Lion Publications, Ithaca, New York.

Ma`sumian, Farnaz 1995 Life After Death. Oneworld Publications, Oxford, England.

Newton, Michael 1995 Journey of Souls. Llewellyn Publications, Minnesota.

Poe. Lori M. 1995 Journeys to Worlds Beyond. The Place of Light Publisher, Cincinatti, Ohio.

Ramacharaka, Yogi (Year not given) Life Beyond Death, The. Yogi Publication Society, Chicago, ILL.

Rinpoche, Bokar 1993 Death and the Art of Dying, Clearpoint Press, San Francisco, CA.

Rinpoche, Chokyi Nyima 1991 Bardo Guidebook, The. Ranjung Yeshe Publications, Hong Kong.

Saraydarian, Torkom 1993 Science of Meditation, The. Aquarian Educational Group, Sedona, Arizona.

-- 1983 Cosmos in Man. Aquarian Educational Group, Sedona, Arizona

Swedenborg, Emanuel 1958 Heaven and its Wonders and Hell. The Swedenborg Society, London.

Copyright © 2006 Luxamore

--
Leonard Lee aka Luxamore

Metaphysical teacher, counseler, healer and merchant of occult/magickal items of Indonesia.

Magickal Items from Indonesia: talismans, mustika pearls, kerises, etc.

Magickal Bezoar Mustika Pearls from Indonesia.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> Using Positive Affirmations to Achieve Success http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/using-positive-affirmations-to-achieve-success.html http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/using-positive-affirmations-to-achieve-success.html Tue, 17 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500
Very few people manage to achieve exactly what they want to in life. Those that manage to achieve everything that they want to tend to be good at entering into a dialogue with their sub-conscious and they also tend to be open-minded as far as their perception of the potential for human-achievement goes. Positive affirmations help people achieve what they want to, and live a more fulfilling life; those that are able to free their mind to the potential for physiological modeling often manage to achieve much more than those who are skeptical from the outset.

While some people may decide that they wish to achieve financial success, others may wish to find love, or re-unite with their family for example. The truth is that everyone has the power within, and the ability to absorb enough power, to achieve their absolute full potential – through using the process of affirmation enhancement coupled with daily affirmation you can achieve exactly what you have set as your goals. While goal setting is important, you should not lose sight of how you enjoy yourself on a daily basis. That is why, with experience, you may start to use your daily affirmations as a means of ensuring that you are able to enjoy yourself on a day-to-day basis, as well as achieving strategic happiness.

As people realize, our goals can often change. One day we may wish that we were able to play an instrument for example, and then as we start to learn how to play it, the fun associated with it can often disappear. This is an example of a gateway to happiness, rather than happiness itself. For example, you may wish to learn to drive; however you only want to be able to drive so that you can work in your dream job that deems that you need a driver’s license. The driver’s license is a gateway, and in fact so is the job – everyone makes goals which they set as a means of achieving happiness. Which begs the question: can you merely affirm towards happiness, rather than the means of getting you there?

The answer is no. Through merely aiming towards your end goal of happiness, rather than the strategy to get you there, you will lose focus on what you enjoy, as well as the trial and tribulation involved in finding true happiness. While happiness is subjective, using affirmations as a means to get there can be the best solution for those with an open mind.

--
Roshawn Hall is a dedicated self help writer to helping people improve their affirmation, assisting them to identify and clear the negative emotions.


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> The Awareness of Metaphysical Laws and Principles Part 3 http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/the-awareness-of-metaphysical-laws-and-principles-part-3.html http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/the-awareness-of-metaphysical-laws-and-principles-part-3.html Thu, 08 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0600
There are four fundamental principles to consider in metaphysical healing:

1) The preparation of the Healer

2) Determining the cause of inharmony

3) The choice of metaphysical therapy

4) The actual healing and teaching

Concerning the first point, every healer should realize that what really heals is the divine power of the Universal Mind. The healer is merely a channel for the healing energies to flow, or at the very least, a catalyst for the healing power that flows from the patient's divine principle. Because energy is tainted by the channel in which it flows, it behooves the healer to purify his lower being from all obnoxious material. In the ancient Mystery Schools, for instance, every would-be-healer would undergo purification in the form of prayers, fasting, meditation, and other spiritual exercises. This had a three-fold effect--the elimination of toxins from the physical system; the strengthening, vitalizing, and magnetizing of the aura and nervous system--both subtle and gross; and the alignment of the lower components of the microcosm with the divine principles called "the spiritual triad" by Theosophists. This purification makes it feasible for divine forces of vital life, which is a higher form of prana, to flow through the healer. Once having filled the physical body with a harmonious flow of the vivifying principle, the surplus energy would strengthen and magnetize the aura. In Christian scriptures we read of saints healing with their "shadow." This shadow is in fact the aura.

Another relevant point connected with the metaphysician's preparation is the polarization of the consciousness. Energy flows abundantly from and to the chakra in which the consciousness is daily polarized. The expressions of love and compassion, for instance, which are vital attributes for the healer to possess, reveals that the consciousness is polarized in the heart-chakra. Expressions of self-centeredness indicate a polarization within the solar-plexus center. A strong altruistic will shows that the polarization is within the chakras above the heart. What this means technically, where divine pranic healing is concerned, is that the polarization within a lower center would make it difficult for the healer to reach and heal the organs of the patient associated with a higher center because of a difference in the frequency octave. Heart troubles, for instance, which is associated with a poor functioning of the heart-chakra, a healer polarized in the solar-plexus will find it difficult to heal, because the necessary energies required to correct the patient's problem is unavailable, inspite the belief that plain unqualified divine energy is sufficient enough to do the work. Without the right level of consciousness, divine energy entering into the healer would simply evaporate having found no correspondence in likeness within him/her. The divine energies entering the healer is qualified with whatever psychic center the healer polarizes himself. The healer may seek to overide this with the exercise of the will and may succeed to a certain degree, but without the correct polarization the healing process will not be optimal. It is therefore, important for the healer to evolve and function on a higher consciousness-level. This is of prime importance in the preparatory stage. Polarization on the highest centers makes the divine energy flowing through all of the other chakras equally accessible.

In the second point to be considered are the causes of disharmony within the physical system. As we have seen previously, the various manifestations of ill health have its major, fundamental causes in the immaterial aspects of man. The psyche of man is twofold: conscious and subconscious, and they play their part in determining one's overall state of health. Negative thoughts and feelings are self-destructive. If held in the mind for too long without being checked, they would manifest in an unbalanced condition in the body. The conscious mind is responsible with what it feeds the subconscious side. What the subconscious receives it transmits internally to the physical body, and externally to the environment. In order to get to the root cause of psychosomatic illnesses, the healer has to determine the cause of the problem in the nature of the feelings and thoughts of the patient. It would be an aid for the healer to realize that no matter what negative feelings are felt, or what negative thoughts are being formed, they all stem from the misidentification of the Self, or from the false ego. People say that they are sick or hurt, whereas the "I," the"Self," is pure and whole and not subjected to any suffering, discomfort, or any other mortal complaints. The first step, therefore, would be to educate the patient in this "true perspective," of emancipating the mind from its ignorance and delusions. The conscious mind of the patient should also be made to realize the unnecessity of thinking and feeling negatively, and of the adverse effects that it creates in the physical organism. Methods of cleansing the subconscious mind from "engrams," or negative packets of energy-patterns should be taught. This purification is usually done be various spiritual exercises such as certain meditations where divine forces are invoked and directed for cleansing, or by programming the subconscious mind with affirmations. This latter approach was made use of in the ancient Egyptian healing temples. Such affirmations identify the patient with the Divine Self. For instance, in the manual, the Book of the Dead, translated by E.A. Wallis Budge, are found the following affirmations:

"I am the Great One, son of the Great One

"I am the Mighty One, son of the Mighty One

"I am Horus, the son of Ra

"I am the Sekhem (power) of my father Ra . . . " (1953:677)

The ancient Egyptians represented the aspects and attributes of the Divine Self with various personages and deities. In the above we see how the mortal concept of one's being is replaced with an immortal, deific one. In the affirmations one is reminded of one's divinity untainted by any forms of weaknesses or illnesses. Karmic-related illnesses, which at times defies a cure by superficial treatment in the hands of medical practitioners, may be eliminated by the above processes coupled with an understanding of the karmic lesson, repentance and compensation.

The next point for our consideration is in the choice of therapy. It is a fact that for every illness or ailment there is an appropriate cure, or a system of therapy that would return a healthy condition to the physical body. This also includes death, although from our human limited point of view this would hardly be considered as a valid cure. From the above statements we imply that there is no therapeutical system that would heal every single disease known to man. There is, as yet, no Universal Panacea discovered that would cure every affliction of man unless we consider Truth to be a medicine--and a bitter one at that to most people. Holistic healing, therefore, includes various methods that would reach all of the components making the whole being of man, and the healer should determine the appropriate therapy or therapies for each individual case. The methods of alternative healing may be categorized into the following:

1) Esoteric healing

2) Exoteric healing

Esoteric healing, as its name implies, refers to methods that require intense internal preparation on the part of the metaphysician. This preparation as we have already discussed comes in the form of divine attunement with the aid of prayers, meditation, periodic fasting, and a spiritual way of life. Instant transmissions of attunement or power by master-healers to students only opens the way and is not a permanent condition, for one's mental and emotional state may neutralize what has been transmitted. Living the divine life is a necessity. Once prepared, the healer may make use of the available energies from various sources surrounding his person, and to direct them into the body of the patient. Pranic Healing, Chakra Healing, Divine Healing, Angelic Healing, and Spiritual Mind Healing are some of the methods used in esoteric healing.

Exoteric healing deals more with the methodologies that the average person may utilize regardless of his/her lack of high spiritual attainment and esoteric preparation. These methods include vibrational healing: gem therapy, chromotherapy, audiotherapy, aromatherapy, chi massage, acupressure, herbalology, acupuncture, reflexology, and many countless others. It would be a standard procedure for the healer to make use of a combination of therapies both esoteric and exoteric for the average healing. An effective way of healing is when both the cause and the effect of an unbalanced body, mind, and soul are attended to.

In this last point we will consider the actual healing and teaching of the patient to self-heal. At the very onset of treatment it should be kept in mind that the receptiveness of the patient determines to a large degree the effectiveness of treatment. The healer should also approach the patient with love and compassion, freed from any judgmental and critical attitude. These two approaches serve to create a temporary psychic bond between the healer and the patient. There are times when the cause of the patient's problem lies undiscovered. A possible solution is the attunement of the healer with both the healer's and the patient's Higher Self. The healer should be open to intuitive impressions coming from within that may shed a light on the problematical causes of the diseased condition.

It is inappropriate for the healer to be solely responsible for the healing. Every patient should be given an opportunity to participate in the healing process. Therefore, laws and principles regarding holistic health should be inculcated, and the patient made aware of man's healing potential. This is preventive medicine at its best. It should not be the healer's best interest to make the patient dependent upon him or her because of the financial returns. This would reduce the metaphysician's value in the eyes of God and humanity. Every metaphysician should, therefore, illuminate the understanding of the patient as to the cause and nature of the problem being experienced, and the way out of it. As is often illustrated in popular self-help books, it is much wiser to teach a man to fish rather than to give him fishes for an indefinite period. Soul-growth occurs in one-case, whereas soul-stagnancy occurs in the other.


Scriptures in Ministerial Work

Since metaphysics deals with spiritual truths, with laws and principles of the Universal Mine, it may assume a religious character and take on the coloration of a certain religion when tending those who are religiously inclined or when the situation calls for it. The metaphysician himself should have long transcended sectarian and dogmatic viewpoints; and whenever possible, he should stimulate people to perceive the narrow perspectives and ill-logic of the many dogmas that bind the mind to a mortal outlook and to an unnatural way of life. It is for this very reason that the inner essence of religion should be taught of having an eternal and real value and not of the ever-changing cloak fabricated by the fallibility of unenlightened man. Dogmas perpetuate a false perception of man's true spiritual estate, binding people to the unreal world of Maya. Religion comes from a Latin word which means "to bind." Its purpose is to bind man to God; however, as can be seen by recorded history, by the Inquisition, the Crusades, the so-called Holy wars, etc., it has resulted in a contra-effect separating man from Truth and his Maker. The Nazarene Master taught a religion of love, whereas the priesthood transformed it into a religion of fear and damnation. Pertaining to the above, Frater Achad in Melchizedek Truth Principles says that,

". . . religious systems have caused man of earth to become weak in his understanding of God." (1988:76)

In fact, religious bigotry have caused man to blaspheme God daily by allowing his adoration of the idols of false ideas and dogmatic notions. That which is subject to change is false and unreal--actually impermanent; only Truth is unchanging and is eternal. Nothing endures in the material worlds save the Truth that brought humankind into being. It is for this reason that there is no religion that will last forever except for their quintessential core of Truth that lies in the foundation of their existence.

Humanity's spiritual development moves at an awkwardly slow pace. One of the many reasons for man's lack of spiritual development is his non-desire to truly know God, Nature, and himself. In his spiritual pride, like the Demiurgus of the Gnostics, man disbelieves in the higher intelligences and worlds considering himself to be the highest product of Nature. This materialistic philosophy fully formed in the 19th century still sways the thinking of the minds of "educated man." The truly educated person, according to our reckoning is a spiritually-enlightened being. He knows things that are of eternal value.

Another stumbling block in humanity's soul-progress lies in their indolence in the search for Truth, for as they say, it is easier to believe than to know. Most people, for instance, desire cheap salvation or deliverance by imposing their burdens upon another's shoulders believing that another will save them from their sins, karma, and hell-fire. Unfortunately, or fortunately, the Universe does not function in such a manner. All men must learn to be responsible and participate in their own spiritual salvation or liberation. The effort required to know Truth requires some discipline though, for without such, no soul-advancement may be attained. People should be made aware of this, for they have long been too complacent with themselves. Buddhism, since its inception has known this human psychological trait of laziness and had adopted a method for awakening sluggish, tamasic minds by teaching the principle of the imminence of death--where its implication of the value of time and life-opportunity, and the purpose of life are intensely contemplated upon. This methods can sometime be an eye-opener, and may aid the metaphysician with certain types of temperaments. The populace should be acquainted with truths even if it hurts, eventhough these are not accepted at first. Seeds grow well in the darkness of the ground or in the subconsciousness. We have experienced this many times--we taught certain things to others without them accepting the precepts, even vehemently denying them, but later on only to hear these same individuals teaching to others or even ourselves (!) the very thing that they previously denied--this is the power of Truth and is quiet a marvel.

Spiritual truths are to be found in every religion, although in some so deeply buried that one has to contemplate deep down in the soul for the uncovering of it--most of the time religious dogmas blind one from perceiving them; occasionally, truths are skimmed by because being right in front of one's eyes they are hardly noticed or given their proper value. Certain mental traits such as prejudice, narrow-mindedness, fear and superstition may likewise prevent a person from realizing truths. One's mental vessel must be freed from them ere spiritual nourishment may fill one's cup to the brim. Almost all scriptures have an esoteric side to them. They were mostly written by Initiates for the benefit of all the candidates to the higher wisdom. Therefore, to interpret literally what has to be understood in a spiritual, esoteric sense--and without the proper keys--one merely robs holy scriptures of their intended purpose, and that is the awakening of the spiritual, divine nature lying latent within one's being. It takes a spiritual-conscious awareness to interpret what was written under spiritual influences. St. Paul in one of his epistles, for instance, declared that the many incidents in Abraham's life are not to be understood as history, but as allegories pertaining to the development of the human soul. As an example, we may take the incident where Abraham was asked to sacrifice his beloved son. Almost about to execute his task, he was interrupted by the voice of God saying in substance that it was unnecessary to sacrifice his son (in this context it does not matter whether it was Ishmael or Isaac) but in replacement a goat struggling nearby in the bushes was to be offered instead. This tale when taken at its face value is usually interpreted as a teaching of the principles of obedience and surrender to God. What it really signifies is the sacrifice of one's carnal self (the goat) instead of the spiritual consciousness (the son), which has to be preserved and fostered in one's awaking awareness. As was said by John the Harbinger,

"He (the spiritual consciousness) must increase, but I (the carnal self) must decrease." (John 3:30)

Another allegory containing a principle of value is to be found in the gospels. At face value, when read literally, it conveys little of any importance. But when interpreted spiritually, it transmits to us a certain truth of spiritual application. This principle of truth lies in the incident at the Garden of Gethsemane. We are told in the tale that the Master Jesus was in the Garden with his three disciples who were fast asleep. Seeking companionship from his three followers at his hour of distress proved to be a disappointment. The only recourse was to direct his attention to God. Interpreted spiritually, the three disciples represent the physical, emotional, and mental being of man who are dead to Reality, or "fast asleep." The incarnated soul (the Master Jesus), having discovered the unreliability of his lower self for solace attunes with the divine principle within for inner direction. We can see from this how applicable the truths and principles are--as found in scriptures--in our mundane lives when understood from the esoteric viewpoint.

One should not restrict oneself to the scriptures of one's religion as the "sole word of God," for all are essentially derived from a single divine source with the intended purpose of teaching the redemption of a wayward and fallen humanity; and it behooves every metaphysician to peruse the texts of any spiritual manuscript containing divine laws and principles that facilitates the unfoldment and expansion of the consciousness. The Tao Teh Ching, Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, or the Gnostic gospels discovered at Nag Hamadi, for instance, contain pearls of eternal wisdom that the metaphysician will find helpful to adopt in his ministerial work and as a spiritual/occult practitioner. The Christian Bible and even the Quran may be better understood when cross-referenced to the scriptures mentioned above. As we see it, the main theme of every sacred, secret teaching is the divine nature of man. It is appropriate, we believe, to base one's metaphysical work upon this truth. when delving into the esoteric side of the New Testament, it is helpful to adopt one of the gnostic views that Jesus the Nazarene as depicted in the gospels, was not a historical personage but a representative of the myth of the"undying god," or of the mystical element within man that seeks to incarnate and be resurrected in the waking consciousness. The spiritual import and value of the gospels are therefore preserved. We should use scriptures as a tool of self-transformation; whether they be history is irrelevant for the spiritual aspirant. Their true value lies in the catalytic nature embodied within the hidden meaning of their texts which improves the nature of man when applied.

Copyright © 2006 Luxamore

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Leonard Lee aka Luxamore

Metaphysical teacher, counseler, healer and merchant of occult/magickal items of Indonesia.

Magickal Items from Indonesia: talismans, mustika pearls, kerises, etc.

Magickal Bezoar Mustika Pearls from Indonesia.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> This Happiness Of The "You" Of You Is Causeless by Elysha http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/this-happiness-of-the-you-of-you-is-causeless-by-elysha.html http://www.articletrader.com/self-improvement/spirituality/this-happiness-of-the-you-of-you-is-causeless-by-elysha.html Thu, 23 Aug 2007 00:00:00 -0500
This happiness of the "you" of you is causeless - it simply bubbles forth out of you being this one that is already true of you. The divine one of all time which is flowing through the very eyes of this mindbody that you find your self flowing through is also immutable, rocklike in its solidity, changeless, beyond beyondness even though it is also the everything of everything.

This one that is the "you" of you is boundless and infinitely rich in intelligence. It is the very isness of everything - and it is who you are, right now. Your thinking - and your belief in this thinking; your belief in who you think you are; your belief that you are this mind informed mindbody that you are travelling around through - is not going to deliver you from this continual misidentification of yourself to this "you" of you that is already and utterly free of all of your misconceptions.

A different and conscious focus of attention - instead of the unconscious inattention that you so casually and easily drift asleep into - is required for you to be the heart that is already true of this "you" of you. A different movement entirely is required of you, to the one that you generally and automatically play out, and who you think you are is completely resistant to this very movement from taking place.

The mind, as you know it, is to be transcended and this will not happen while you keep on believing your mind to be who you are. It is not who you are. Who you are is the motion of seeing that is flowing through your very eyes right now. The one that is flowing through your eyes is this "you" of you that you have not only failed to recognise but also failed to be delivered of the freedom that it is.

The conscious alignment of your attention to this very "aliveness" that is flowing through your very eyes right now and you stopping at and as this one, is what will have you realizing and being "you". It will have you immediately free from the prison and bondage of your own making through your persistence in attempting to be something that is notyou. It will have you complete in and as the one that is flowing through these eyes of this mindbody that you find yourself flowing through - this immensity of the rocklike mass of nothingness from which all things arise, completely impersonal, sheer isness ising, totally independent and beyond everything.

The immediacy of being this "you" of you - who you already are - has you complete in its freedom; free from the imaginations and perpetuations of your mind; at peace with everything exactly as it is in this moment, with no need to try and change any of it; it has you with nowhere to go and nothing to do. It leaves you at home and in the very heart and hub of existence itself.

There is nothing more to be attained in the immediate completeness of who you are - it is already complete. Once established in the stability of the realization of who "you" are then flowers the unravelling of the mind informancy of this mindbody that you find your self flowing through; after that begins the energetic intricacies of the "being" of this divine one as it makes itself more known through this mindbody with its fullness and purity.

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If you are interested in being the freedom of your heart visit Elysha's website for more free information and self help products. http://www.elysha.org/self.html

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>