El Amor existe como una energía penetrante que subyace toda la existencia humana, y nunca flaquea. Es la fuerza que nos recuerda de nuestra unidad fundamental. Y es esta realización hacia la cual tiende la evolución humana. Sin embargo el amor no es algo que debe ser desarrollado sino simplemente descubierto y vivido. Es preexistente. De hecho, no cultivamos la fuerza salvadora del amor. Mas bien cultivamos nuestra capacidad para reconocerlo y abrazarlo.

Frecuentemente las personas dicen que Dios es amor, y ciertamente, hay mucho de cierto en esta noción. Aunque Dios es caracterizado como posesor de muchos atributos (tales como voluntad, belleza e inteligencia), el amor es el más importante. Es una vibración integrada en la tela de la Creación misma. El amor enlaza todas las cosas en un campo de unidad. Desde el punto de vista humano, cuando dos personas se enamoran, ambas están sumergidas en esta energía unitiva. Viéndolo en una forma más amplia, es la fuerza que ayuda a la humanidad a realizar su unidad. Y desde la perspectiva cósmica, es la fuerza integrante que sostiene al universo como una singularidad en función. Es por esto que se dice (en la literatura esotérica) que el amor está gobernado por la Ley de Atracción. Ya sea que lo consideremos desde el punto de vista humano o más allá de este, el amor siempre atrae y une, y en esto yacen sus propiedades salvadoras. Salva uniendo, y disolviendo las barreras que dividen.

Según consideramos este tema, debemos realizar que el amor es jerárquico. Por esto queremos decir que el amor puede ser experimentado en varios niveles. En el nivel más bajo, se manifiesta como deseo. Nuestros antojos, deseos y anhelos res relacionan con el amor en un nivel muy personal. Una categoría más elevada del amor es la aspiración. Aquí el amor es la fuerza que nos propele hacia algo que tiene significado. Por ejemplo, cuando vemos a un científico que aspira a encontrar el remedio para una enfermedad terminal, estamos observando el amor en acción. Frecuentemente la aspiración tiene un aspecto personal e impersonal. El científico muy probablemente experimentará la satisfacción personal del descubrimiento de una cura médica. Sin embargo, él/ella también está impulsado impersonalmente para contribuir al mejoramiento de la humanidad por medio del campo de la investigación médica. En un nivel aún más elevado, el amor está dirigido hacia la unión de la humanidad. En este caso, el amor a la humanidad es todo lo que se conoce, y no existe un beneficio personal que da lugar a esta experiencia. De hecho el tipo de amor más elevado es el más impersonal, y a la vez el más inclusivo.

Cuando una persona se relaciona con el amor más elevado, las soluciones a los problemas son más aparentes. En este caso, el amor puede ser considerado revelatorio. Frecuentemente los problemas parecen irreconciliables porque hay una falta de comprensión entre las partes involucradas. Sin embargo, cuando una persona mantiene un sentido de unión amorosa, las barreras que evitan encontrar una solución comienzan a disolverse. El amor puede levantar los velos que tienden a prevenirnos de ver como soluciona. Esto es porque hace posible el reconocernos a nosotros mismos más fácilmente en aquellos que tienen un punto de vista opuesto. Cuando ese sentido es establecido, podemos comprender mejor el razonamiento que yace detrás del punto de vista opuesto. En verdad, este es un paso esencial para encontrar una solución para cualquier problema o crisis.  La comprensión entonces surge, y en ella, se pueden encontrar soluciones. La comprensión por lo tanto es un agente del amor.

Desde el punto de vista esotérico, el amor y el alma son  términos sinónimos (o casi lo son). El alma humana puede ser comprendida como la Cuma total de la sabiduría que uno ha desarrollado a través de innumerables vidas, así como el grado de amor desinteresado que se siente internamente. Experimentar el amor más elevado es experimentar una dimensión del alma. Frecuentemente las personas creen que el alma es algo que será realizado en el momento de la muerte. Sin embargo, este es un gravísimo malentendido. El alma no es algo remoto para nosotros. Por ejemplo, cuando una persona siente un profundo sentido de compasión por otro, en ese momento el alma esta moldeando su percepción.  En esta forma, el alma participa en lo inmediato de nuestra experiencia, y no está nada distante de nosotros. Es solamente nuestra incapacidad para reconocerlo que la hace parecer remota.

Bien podríamos preguntar, ¿cómo distinguimos entre el amor superior y el inferior? Como ya hemos mencionado, el amor superior es más impersonal que la forma de amor usualmente experimentado por las personas. El amor superior no quiere nada para sí mismo. Por esto queremos decir que no exige ser reciprocado. Típicamente cuando experimentamos el amor, está acompañado por la esperanza de que sea devuelto. Por tanto, la usual experiencia del amor está enraizada en un anhelo oculto de ser amado. En este sentido es recíproco. Sin embargo el amor superior no se comporta de esta manera. No tiene condiciones para su expresión, es suficiente en sí mismo.

Además, el amor elevado está libre de las actitudes que surgen de la mente enjuiciante. Estos tipos de pensamientos tienden a dividir la vida en categorías de correcto e incorrecto, bien y mal. El amor superior no encuentra lugar para expresarse cuando la mente está enfocada en tales divisiones. Estas tendencias mentales frecuentemente preocupan al ego (la personalidad), así bloqueando la expresión del amor. Al amor siempre está presente aunque es difícil tener acceso a él cuando la mente divide y separa lo que percibe. En esto se encuentra una comprensión más profunda de la antigua noción que la mente es la “asesina de lo real”. Sin embargo, cuando la mente está apropiadamente casada con el amor, actúa como la “reveladora de lo real.”

Es importante realizar que el amor superior transciende todas las reacciones y juicios de la personalidad. Para experimentar este tipo de amor es necesario, por tanto, que un individuo se aleje profundamente de su personalidad. De hecho, debemos internamente conocer que nosotros mismos somos el alma, y darnos cuenta que la personalidad es meramente la vestidura externa de su expresión. Cuando realizamos esto por lo menos parcialmente (con experiencia) entonces un tipo de amor superior seguramente se sentirá. De hecho, es inevitable. Según una persona gradualmente evoluciona su consciencia hacia el alma, el amor superior (contenido por el alma) se vuelve cada vez más una parte de nuestra forma de vivir. Ser el alma es ser el amor que ella lleva.

La evolución de la consciencia humana está profundamente conectada con el amor, y nuestra cambiante relación con él. De hedo, la expansión de la mente (comprendida espiritualmente) solamente ocurre porque existe una expansión en la intimidad del corazón al mismo tiempo. Varios métodos pueden mejorar la relación de una persona con el amor. Lo más importante de esto es trabajar para percibir la vida y sus eventos en términos del total mayor. En otras palabras, tratara de reconocer aquellas cosas que nos recuerdan de lo que tenemos en común y de la unidad. Al hacer esto contrarrestamos las tendencias separativas de la mente. El espíritu de criticismo y división disminuye cuando uno cultiva una perspectiva inclusiva de la vida y las circunstancias. De esta forma, el amor superior gradualmente se vuelve más reconocible y se siente en nuestra vida.

Hemos visto que el amor es la Fuerza Salvadora. Esta energía sagrada tiene el poder de elevar a la humanidad revelando el hecho que nosotros (como una especia) esencialmente somos uno. Esta comprensión se desarrolla gradualmente según un individuo profundiza su relación con el amor. En este sentido, el amor es jerárquico. En su nivel más bajo, se manifiesta como deseo personal, y en su punto más alto es experimentado como un amor inclusivo dedicado a contribuir sabiamente al mejoramiento de la humanidad. Nuestra relación con el amor es por tanto evolutiva. Evoluciona de expresiones personales a expresiones impersonales del corazón, así desplazando un individuo de una relación exclusiva a una relación inclusiva de la vida.  La vida no es algo que debe ser creada porque siempre existe. Solamente necesitamos encontrarla en lo profundo de nuestro ser. Y, para hacerlo siempre requiere que la personalidad (el ego) cede al amor más profundo comunicado por el alma. En verdad, el amor superior solamente es realizado cuando nos rendimos a él.

© 2006  William Meader

Información Biográfica:

William Meader es un autor, maestro y consejero. Mucho de su trabajo están enfocados en los temas de Creatividad Espiritual, la Evolución de la Consciencia y el Arte de la Meditación. En la actualidad el enseña en los Estados Unidos, Canadá, Europa, Australia y Nueva Zelandia. El reside en Oregón, y se puede poner en contacto con él por medio de su website en www.meader.org.

Translation by Direlis Reuss

Traditionally, when we consider dance, we think of its many forms and the cultures that have created them. Today we honor and participate in a wide variety of dance expressions. Yet, whether we are considering the many forms of dance, such as Latin, ballet, or modern (to name just a few), we actually are witnessing the out-picturing of various states of consciousness. Dancing is an attempt by an individual (or a culture) to recognize and express some aspect of consciousness. The type of dance a person finds attractive can reveal much about his/her inner life, and what consciousness is seeking to express in the outer world. From the esoteric perspective, that which is built into the fabric of consciousness will always seek outer expression in some form. The art of dance is an example of this. However, more broadly considered, any aspect of life represents the same thing –a facet of consciousness seeking an expressive outlet.

When considering this idea, we must not presume that what is expressed via dance is always evolutionary. As stated earlier, dance is the outer manifestation of an inner condition. This is a notion that is woven into the nature of existence itself, and is therefore good. Yet dance can either be progressive (and therefore supportive of the soul’s evolution needs), or it can hold the soul back from further growth and development. The determining factor has to do with the source that gives impulse to the desire to dance. When using the word “source,” I am speaking of the “self-construct” within each of us. Every human being is dual, in that we each recognize our base nature as well as a lofty part of ourselves. These two parts each have the potential for defining our individual sense of identity. They are both, therefore, centers for the emergence of the self-construct; the person we believe ourselves to be at any given moment. One is the personality, and it indicates the state of consciousness that has been achieved over countless incarnations. The other is indicative of the soul itself. When the soul gives impulse toward a particular form of dance, it will be supportive of one’s spiritual growth. Conversely, when the personality governs the desire to dance, spiritual growth does not occur, for the past is being favored over the future. The impulses coming from the soul will always point to future growth, while those of the personality tend to favor the selfish and/or animal yearnings of the past.

A person’s attraction to music can come in two forms. Either s/he will be drawn to it because of the emotional reaction that it evokes, or through a deep affinity it has to the heart. It is important to realize that feeling states are quite different from experiences coming forth through the heart, though they are often confused for each other. Feelings are governed by the solar plexus chakra and are always self-referencing at their core. Genuine experiences of the heart, on the other hand, are comparatively selfless. When the heart is truly touched, the experience puts a person en rapport with the oneness of all things. Spiritually considered, authentic love is the most impersonal force in creation. It is that which makes it possible for each of us to know and realize that inwardly we are all one. Emotions cannot provide this insight because they are too self-referencing. When the emotions are driving one’s desire to dance, then it is likely that the personality is giving birth to the impulse. It does this by stimulating the solar plexus center. However, when the soul is guiding one’s musical attractions, it utilizes the heart as the chakra of choice. When such is the case, the sense of music and dance will be uplifting and decentralizing at the same time. It is to feel joy while simultaneously “taking the eyes off oneself.” The soul is governed by the principle of selfless love and the essential oneness of life. Conversely, the personality is governed by the principle of individuality and self-engrossment. Herein is a clue to discerning whether the soul or personality is the “director on the stool” in the musical drama of life.

In the ancient esoteric literature we are given to understand that the divine function of music and dance is to lift the spirit toward a higher state of awareness. It might be said that music and dance are gates into the deeper mysteries of existence itself, just as are science, religion and philosophy. When dance is able to give to an individual a deeper sense of spiritual Beingness, its expression is extremely helpful. Such realization through movement is needed in order for a new and emerging aspect of the soul to be realized and integrated into one’s life. This is the nature of evolution. That which is subjective seeks to ground itself in objective expression. Potential demands actualization through form, and this, as a function of evolution itself. Yet, when the personality gives the impulse toward movement and dance, then the evolutionary needs of the soul are not being met. Instead, the personality’s historical desires dominate one’s perception leading to forms of dance that may be satisfying but not spiritually uplifting.

To understand the drama between the soul and personality we must realize that the personality (ego) has had supremacy over the soul for most of a person’s incarnational history. Only toward the later phase of human evolution does the soul become inwardly recognized. Up until this realization, personality consciousness (which is the consciousness inherent in concrete thoughts, feelings and physical sensations) is the focus of development. This is as it should be, in that the soul needs a well-developed personality to work through, or shall I say – dance with? Paradoxically, when the personality has evolved to the point that it is finally able to sense the soul within, it tends to resist the search for it. This is because a fully evolved personality is one that functions in the world quite successfully on its own (seemingly). It therefore tends to resist looking for the soul because it realizes that to find it is to stage an eventual transfer of power and authority to it; an event the personality views as an act of self-diminishment. Even so, the personality must one day realize that it is merely the servant to the eternal soul seated behind the scenes. When this begins to occur, an individual is said to have “stepped onto the Path,” and the journey to enlightenment and liberation is then consciously pursued. No longer does mere faith govern the life. An inner experience of the soul is authentically known, and commitment to it becomes the all-encompassing motive for living life. Indeed, the nature of the dance radically changes. By analogy, when two people dance one will usually lead while the other follows that lead. Metaphorically, this is true when we consider the dance between the soul and personality. For countless ages the personality has led the dance while the soul quietly follows. Yet, when one enters the Path the soul begins to lead and the personality discovers the value of following. The personality gives the dance over the soul, for it now knows that the guiding steps of the soul will reveal more beauty. Movement that gives inspiration, meaning and beauty to life is precisely what occurs when the soul is given the opportunity to lead the dance.

When we consider the subject of dance from a cosmic perspective, the mythologies of the East offer much insight. In particular, the nature of Lord Shiva conveyed within the Hindu Tradition. Shiva represents the dynamic god of fire and power. This cosmic being is a part of the Hindu pantheon, and is roughly equivalent to the Father archetype held by the Trinitarians of the Christian faith. It is the masculine force manifesting throughout all of Creation, and is the dynamic energy of all movement, change and dissolution. As such, this deity is related to the subject at hand, for dance is the manifestation of all movement within form. The universe, with its seemingly endless and complex motion, is evidence of Shiva’s presence. Esoterically considered, evolution is a dance of divine Will (Shiva) interacting with intelligence substance (Divine Mother), leading to the manifestation and evolution of all things. The Hindu notion of the “dance of Shiva” is indicative of this idea. Through His rhythmic motions, consciousness itself emerges and time and space are realized. Dance is therefore a rhythmic art form that symbolizes the act of creation itself. It is therefore not surprising to learn that dance is considered an essential aspect to many magic systems of thought. It is the dance of fiery energy taking form. This is the essential meaning behind the dancing flames that encircle many of the images of Shiva found in Hindu art.  It is the One Life manifesting within (and as) the universe and all that is contained within it.

Of practical value is the understanding that every aspect of life is a dance of sorts. Whether considering one’s career interests, friendships, or belief systems, all are dramas of consciousness playing upon the stage of life experience. In each department of life, the question must always be asked – am I living this part of my life according to the rhythm I sense deep within myself? The dance of life in defined by how we live it. The more that we sense the sacred tones and rhythms within the depths of consciousness, the more we are dancing to the soul’s song. In truth, to live life in step with the cadence of the soul is to experience the joy that it confers. Without a doubt, the measure of joy is the litmus test that should be used, for it is unfailingly accurate. When joy is authentically touched, the soul is surely directing the music of one’s life at the moment it is felt. The dance of life is then in harmony with the soul’s expressive intention. When joy spontaneously emerges through life circumstance, there is a sense of knowing (consciously or unconsciously) that a gate leading into the chamber of the soul has been entered.

In this discussion we have considered the art of dance from several perspectives. We have seen that its divine role is to uplift the spirit, and to assist in the actualization of the soul’s inherent potential. When the soul has been completely actualized, its radiant beauty and wisdom are fully expressed within one’s outer life, and this, without encumberment. When able to evoke a reaction within the heart, all forms of art facilitate the evolution of consciousness in this way.  Evolution is a dance with meaning and purpose behind it. Indeed, every person’s destiny lies in his/her ability to realize that the soul is seeking to impose its subtle rhythm upon the personality. When the personality begins to conform to the cadence of the soul, the dance becomes anew. The spiritual dance is then known, and life itself is understood as the ballroom for its performance.

© 2004  William Meader

Biographical Information:
William Meader is an author, teacher and counselor. Much of his work is focused on the subjects of Spiritual Creativity, the Evolution of Consciousness and the Art of Meditation. At present he is teaching in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. He resides in Oregon, and can be contacted through his website at www.emergent.wpengine.com.

It is important to realize that human consciousness is dual in its nature. Within every human being there are two fundamental layers of consciousness—one pertaining to the mind of the personality (ego), and the other is the consciousness of the soul. Sometimes called the lower and higher minds, these two aspects of consciousness are often at odds with each other. The rational lower mind will think one thing, while the wisdom of the higher suggests something different. Yet, spiritual evolution is not based upon the rejection of the lower in favor of the higher. Instead, it is to merge the two together as one. It is the process by which the wisdom of the soul gradually infuses itself into the mind of the personality. In the deepest sense, this is the most fundamental goal underlying human evolution, and its consummation is enlightenment itself.

In order to grasp the infusion process, we must first understand the difference between the consciousness of the personality and that of the soul. Indeed, discerning this difference is a prerequisite to the infusion process. Comparatively, the consciousness of the soul is governed by wisdom, while the personality is directed by knowledge and desire. Unlike the personality, the soul is motivated by selfless love, and is sensitive to the welfare and needs of the larger whole. This sensitivity is based upon the soul’s ability to recognize humanity’s essential oneness. The personality is not capable of this. Instead, it is separative in its perceptions and is driven by the need to fulfill its own ambitions. When a person consciously steps unto the spiritual path, it suggests that s/he is starting to recognize (to some degree) these differences. This is what eventually propels him/her to live a more spiritually dedicated life, and marks the beginning of the infusion process.

Though the evolution of the mind is based upon the fusion of these two categories of consciousness, it should not be assumed that, by so doing, both will have equal control. The soul needs the personality in order to effectively express itself in the outer world. This is the primary purpose of the infusion process, for the destiny of the personality is to act as the soul’s outer agent. Yet, this can only happen when the personality willingly yields to the soul’s authority and direction. Needless to say, this is not an easy thing to achieve, and it usually takes many incarnations to fully accomplish.

By its very nature, the personality tends to be resistant to the soul’s higher promptings. For many incarnations it has been the director of life, and as a result, doesn’t easily let go of its control. Because of this, most people who are consciously trying to live a more spiritual life are partially soul-infused. Part of the personality willingly yields to the soul’s direction, while another part continues to assert its own agenda. This is why people sometimes feel frustrated by their lack of spiritual progress. At times we feel very connected to the higher qualities emitted by the soul. Yet, at other times this unexpectedly disappears, leaving us feeling spiritually disconnected. There are actually several reasons for this. One reason is that, at the moment of disconnection, the personality has reasserted its control. Hence we experience a swinging back and forth between the higher and lower parts of ourselves. This leads to many things, including the tendency to divide life into two departments—one dedicated to the spiritual dimension of life, and the other toward the secular. Indeed, the dual nature of consciousness tends to create a dual life.

In addition to the vacillation occurring between the soul and personality, there are psychological anomalies that can arise because of the infusion process. For example, as the soul tries to infuse itself into the personality, feelings of depression can emerge. To understand this it must be remembered that the soul represents a higher energy system. When it tries to infuse more of itself into the personality, the lower-self can easily feel overwhelmed by the experience. The personality becomes aware (to some degree) of the wisdom of the soul and what it seeks to express. Yet, this heightened stimulation can cause the personality to feel besieged and unable to live up to the soul’s higher promptings. In such cases depression can ensue.

Another psychological anomaly that can emerge is ego inflation, but for the opposite reason. Instead of the personality feeling unable to cope with the added stimulation, it absorbs it in such a way that the ego becomes amplified. Contrary to what we would normally think, greater soul-infusion may initially lead to the amplification of egotistical tendencies. Fortunately, when the new level of infusion has stabilized, ego inflation dies down and greater selflessness emerges.

From this it should not be inferred that when a person is suffering from depression or ego inflation they must be experiencing soul-infusion. Most of the time these types of problems stem from struggles experienced by the personality alone, and are unrelated to the soul. Nonetheless, when a person is consciously walking the path, this alternative understanding of these psychological problems (as well as others) should be considered.

As the soul gradually infuses itself into the personality, its presence can be recognized in a variety of ways. To begin, an individual will increasingly feel the need to make a positive contribution to the betterment of something beyond him/herself. Because the wisdom of the soul is oriented toward service, it gives impulse to actions that support the larger whole. A soul-infused individual also tends to understand life by using broad and abstract truths to interpret events. In addition, the perception of circumstance will gradually change. Events that may seem random, to the personality, are realized as meaningful when the soul begins to contribute to the shaping of one’s perception.

As soul-infusion increases, there is far less emphasis on the personal aspects of life. Instead, the oneness of humanity and its evolutionary needs become the focus of life’s attention. Love is also experienced differently. The soul is a carrier of deep and abiding love. When it expresses itself through the soul-infused portion of the personality, the individual becomes less preoccupied with the desire for personal love. Now the love of humanity becomes the primary theme of life. Comparatively speaking, the love of the soul is more impersonal than the love felt by the personality, though far more inclusive.

We have seen that the mind (and its gradual development) is the root that gives rise to evolution. The lower aspects of consciousness shape the personality and its perceptions, while the higher contains the wisdom of the soul. When a person finally begins to commit him/herself to living a more soul-filled life, this inner duality becomes more easily recognized. And, from this realization, the journey toward enlightenment begins. It is a journey that moves forward as the soul is able to infuse itself (incrementally) into the personality. In truth, the soul needs the personality. Its role is to be the outer garment through which the soul expresses its wisdom. Yet this can only happen when the personality yields to the soul’s guiding light.

When the personality begins to let go, a variety of psychological reactions will often occur. Reactions such as depression, phobic tendencies and/or the rise in egotistical behaviors, are just a few examples. These reactions simply represent the initial challenges felt by the personality as it gradually learns to be guided by the soul. Such is the nature of spiritual evolution. It is to blend the soul and personality together. The two must merge as one. When this is fully achieved, enlightenment is at hand, and one’s capacity to demonstrate selfless service is profound.

© 2006  William Meader

Biographical Information:
William Meader is an author, teacher and counselor. Much of his work is focused on the subjects ofSpiritual Creativity, the Evolution of Consciousness and the Art of Meditation. At present he is teaching in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. He resides in Oregon, and can be contacted through his website at www.emergent.wpengine.com.

This principle is true at all levels of existence. It is true when considering the life of a plant, an animal or a human being, and even beyond. All are understood as unique differentiations of God, and all represent distinctive grades of consciousness found within the One Life. Considered from the point of view of a human being, when sensing the soul (the representative of God) we are simultaneously touching the field of unity. Indeed, from a certain perspective it can be said that God and Unity are synonymous terms.

Religions of Exile

Historically speaking, Western theologies are based upon the idea that God created the universe while remaining mysteriously separate from it. This view is at the root of the doctrine of the fall of man, and the need for human redemption. As such, Judaism, Islam and Christianity are sometimes referred to as religions of exile. They promote the view that humanity and the Creator are quite separate, and that creation is somehow impure as compared to the incorruptibility of the Divine.

Yet, considered esoterically, this notion is in error. Instead, creation is viewed as an inseparable aspect of God. It is not God and creation, but God as creation that is the basis of existence. From this perspective, divinity can be seen in all things. God is the livingness inherent in all aspects of creation, large or small. It is the unitive field called space, as well as all that is contained within space. This is the One Life. This is God incarnate.

The Third Eye and the Perception of Oneness

Spiritually-minded people often state that evolution is based upon an expansion of consciousness. Yet, what does this mean? Perhaps this expansion can be best understood as a broadening of one’s sense of inner unity. Stated differently, when consciousness expands, an individual is able to see more clearly the oneness hidden behind diversity. Of course, this must be understood as a relative realization, in that we are not yet able to sense the oneness of all things. That is a state of consciousness only achieved by a Master of Wisdom, such as the Christ or the Buddha. Nonetheless, it does suggest that the evolution of consciousness is based upon a growing realization that the outer distinctions of life veil an essential oneness.

The third eye is the organ of the soul that senses the unitive field underlying form. Sometimes called the Eye of Vision, this etheric organ makes it possible to see the soul hidden in all things. It is a type of vision that reveals an inner synthesis of people, events and circumstance. The vision of unity is, therefore, a predictable feature that emerges when walking the spiritual path. As we evolve, the third eye becomes increasingly operative. Evidence of this deeper vision is found in an individual’s growing ability to perceive the unitive field underlying forms that outwardly appear as separate and distinct.

The Hierarchy of Unity

It should be noted that the type of unity thus far discussed is of a very high order. It presupposes that one has come into a measure of spiritual living, and that s/he is deliberately attempting to live by the inward promptings of the soul. Though unity is an inherent attribute of the One Life, it nonetheless expresses itself hierarchically. For example, within the animal kingdom unity can be recognized in the herding tendency. Herd instinct is an innate urge to unite in support of survival. It is a set of automatic behaviors that arise from the collective consciousness of a species. As such, the instinct to herd is a manifestation of unity.

The herding instinct within the animal domain, though sacred, is nonetheless a lower expression of unity, at least when compared to that experienced by a human being. It is a form of unitive behavior based upon the collective survival of the species. In short, the instinctual consciousness of an animal is strictly governed by its biology, not by any self-directed choice made by the animal. Yet, this herd tendency is important, for it forms a foundational matrix for the higher forms of unity to be realized in the human kingdom. Our evolution through the animal kingdom has given us an innate familiarity with unity, but it is to be further developed and expanded as we evolve as human beings.

At the lower levels of human development, the principle of unity is expressed as tribal or mass consciousness. In some sense, this stage of consciousness is an immediate carryover from the herd instinct long ago developed in the animal kingdom. In today’s world a large percentage of people are still governed by this form of unitive consciousness, and are easily swayed by mass opinion and societal persuasion. Unity is strongly defined by familial ties and the need to feel safe within one’s group. The unitive force at the foundation of mass consciousness is sacred, but its expression is comparatively undeveloped, for it too is governed by fear related to the survival of the physical form.

Later in the development of a human being, the principle of unity begins to manifest in a somewhat higher expression. It emerges in the form of patriotism and nationalism. Here survival of the form is still a frequent motive for unity, but the notion of family and group is expanded to encompass one’s national life. This form of unitive consciousness is ever present within a society. Though it is still a type of unity based upon a concern for survival, the forms involved are more than physical. They now include such things as national pride, the reinforcement of societal institutions and laws, and the honoring of nationally-defined cultural patterns.

When an individual begins to consciously step upon the spiritual path, there is a gradual awakening to a yet higher understanding of unity. Initially this is experienced as compassion for all people, regardless of national affiliation. Humanitarian thought becomes operative in one’s life, and the needs of the whole become the centerpiece of attention. This is the beginning of the inner unity earlier discussed. It is a realization that humanity is inwardly one, and that familial and national divisions are quite secondary. This is when the third eye begins to open, and one’s inner divinity becomes a realized part of the divinity inherent within all people and all nations.

Thus it is discovered that God is the unitive force that binds all things in eternal Oneness. It is to discover that we are cells within the livingness of the One Life, which is all that is. The beauty of creation unveils itself through this wondrous recognition. We grow through the gradual realization that, on the inner planes, unity and synthesis are pervasively and eternally present. Our participation with this unitive force first emerges with clarity within our animal past. Yet, as human beings we learn how to engage this sacred energy in more and more expansive ways.

Eventually it dawns upon the seeker of truth that the spiritual dimension of life is based upon a profound inner unity, and that the path to God is a journey through ever broadening fields of synthesis. This discovery does not occur through mere acceptance of theory, but instead through the crucible of meditative experience. In truth, it is a knowingness that emerges when we inwardly turn in search of the deeper realities of life. The vision of inner oneness can then begin to emerge. And, when this happens, a rite of passage has been granted. For the seeker has now earned the right to walk upon the Path of Discipleship leading to eventual enlightenment and freedom.
© 2001 William Meader

Biographical Information:
William Meader is an author, teacher and counselor. Much of his work is focused on the subjects of Spiritual Creativity, the Evolution of Consciousness and the Art of Meditation. At present he is teaching in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. He resides in Oregon, and can be contacted through his website at www.emergent.wpengine.com.

The New Group of World Servers (NGWS) has been growing over the last few decades. To be a member of this group requires that an individual recognize the wisdom and prompting of his/her soul, and give practical demonstration to contribute to humanity’s betterment. Primarily (though not exclusively), members of this group work behind the scenes. They are dedicated men and women who seek to provide solutions to the many challenges facing humanity. Whether considering the difficulties evident in politics, religion, education, business, science, etc., members of the NGWS are working within these institutions. They are advocates of a new way of living, and recognize the evolutionary necessity to assist humanity to rightly move forward. In this regard they have been called the Light Bringers, for they carry the light of wisdom in support of humanity’s next evolutionary step.

The NGWS is governed by the blending of the heart and the mind. The heart conveys compassion while the mind reasons and directs. Effective service is governed by one’s ability to equally embrace both these forces, and to utilize their combined power in response to human need. Service is less effective if the balance of these two energies is not achieved. When love overrides the mind, compassion for the pain of others is strong, but intelligent intervention is often lacking. Conversely, when the mind takes precedence over love, acts of service are tainted with ego and the motive to serve becomes impure. Recognition of the sacredness of both love and mind is thus the antidote to these conditions of imbalanced service.

Within all societal institutions are found oppositional forces. These forces represent differing philosophic views and biases. This is most obvious in the political arena, but it is actually true in every institution. In education you see it manifest as opposing points of view regarding the best strategies for educating our youth; Within the business community there are those who advocate the importance of the “bottom line” at the expense of the employees and the environment, versus those dedicated to the betterment of working conditions and environmental protection, but tend toward fiscal irresponsibility; In science this polarization can be seen in those who cling to Newtonian physics with disregard for the newer theories emerging in the realm of quantum mechanics, while others are dedicated toward the quantum model but deny the contextual usefulness of Newtonian ideas. The role of the NGWS is to act as a balancing force between such oppositional perspectives. It is to stand in the middle and act as a bridge so that each side can begin to recognize the wisdom of the other. Within each polarized perspective are found important truths that must be brought forward. This is the great challenge facing the NGWS, for they are standing between forces that are often antagonistic and distrustful of each other. Their mandate is to reveal the “golden thread of truth” within each oppositional perspective. When the sacred truth of each side is recognized, then it is possible that greater cooperation can emerge. Spiritually considered, all things are working toward unity and away from separateness and fragmentation. This can only be achieved when the wisdom held by opposite perspectives can be acknowledged, and this as a prerequisite for change on both sides.

The NGWS is guided by the vision that, inwardly considered, humanity is one. This inner vision is governed by the utilization of the third eye. This “eye of vision” (as it is sometimes called) reveals that underlying humanity’s differing forms, attitudes and cultural biases, is found an inner oneness. And, it is from such vision that true spiritual service takes root and comes forth. This group realizes (consciously or unconsciously) that life represents a profound unity outwardly expressing itself through diverse forms, cultures and attitudes. Unity through diversity is the mantram that governs the attitude of the NGWS. In truth, to see oneself in another is essential for authentic soulful service to be rendered. In this regard, it is to recognize that it is humanity (in its oneness) that must be uplifted. Such is the understanding of service as perceived by members of the NGWS.

From the above description it will be seen that members of the NGWS must have a wide and inclusive point of view. They regard a polarizing issue as an expression of truth and distortion simultaneously. No socially charged issue can escape this paradoxical reality. The more fanatical an idea, the greater the polarization and distortion that it evidences. For example, the environmental movement expresses much truth in its legitimate concern for the protection of the environment and natural resources. Yet, its darkness can be seen in its intolerance to the many other social concerns (such as economic stability) which would be gravely effected if all the demands of environmentalists were granted. Another example is found in the world of politics. Today we are witnessing an emphasis on the welfare of the whole (expressed today in terms of national security) at the expense of many of the individual liberties guaranteed in the United States Constitution and Bill of Rights. Members of both sides tend to be overly supportive of their perspective while showing relative disregard for the opposite concern. Importantly, members of the NGWS do not allow themselves to be polarized by one side of an issue over another. They instead recognize the need to expose the light (and darkness) on both sides of an issue, thus neutralizing the intolerant stance held by each toward the other. Admittedly, the personality of a group member may be inclined to one side of a polarized issue over another. Yet, from the soul’s point of view, the middle perspective is the soundest and wisest position to stand. Given that a member of the NGWS has a measure of soul consciously realized within, such a person will increasingly listen to the soul’s balanced perspective, and this, even when his/her personality is inclined to takes sides. This principle, dearly held by the NGWS, is actually rooted in the precepts of Buddhism. In his teaching, the Buddha stated that all suffering in the world is due to desire, and that the solution to this is to walk the “noble middle path.” This centrist perspective can be understood in many ways. Most importantly, it is a psychological middle path that is being advocated. It is to attitudinally stand in the middle between opposite points of view, embracing both while identifying with neither.

From the point of view of the NGWS, all parties, creeds, religions and governments are recognized as structures of thought evolving over time. These institutions are simply the out-pictured expression of human consciousness. And, because human consciousness is slowly evolving, so too are the institutions through which our collective consciousness is evolving. All societal institutions are merely the expression of human consciousness, and are therefore imperfect. In this regard, nothing within the human experience is free from a measure of distortion. This is a fact woven into the fabric of evolution itself. From this, the NGWS are able to serve with profound tolerance and understanding. Indeed, this group views all formulations of truth as partial, and as temporary ideas suited to the evolutionary needs of the time. With honest assessment it can be seen that humanity’s evolution is expressed through the ideas and attitudes it collectively holds. Yet, these attitudes change as consciousness evolves. Today’s temple of truth will become the prison of tomorrow. Truth is a relative term. The wisest ideas at any given time provide humanity with the vision to move forward. Nonetheless, such ideas will eventually be outgrown, and newer (and higher) truths shall take their place. Truth is therefore contextually defined and relative over time. Truth is simply a formulation or idea determined by the place humanity stands on the ladder of evolution. With this understanding the NGWS works. This requires that its members interpret ideas and events using proportional and relativistic thinking. To achieve this deeper perspective requires recognition that all ideas have elements of the past and future mixed together at differing ratios; It is to know that even the most progressive ideas are useless if they are expressed with condemnation toward the wisdom of the past; It is to realize that one can never find “the” truth, but only “a” truth.

The NGWS has no outer organization guiding it or giving it support. Such would only result in the codification of its activities and render it partisan (therefore partial). Instead, it is best to view the NGWS as an inner group of united souls dedicated to serving the evolution of life upon our planet. This group represents a profound inner unity, while outwardly expressing itself in vastly diverse forms of service. Interestingly, most individuals within the group are unconscious of their membership. Instead, they are driven by a deep and abiding urge to make an uplifting contribution to a better world in some fashion. Though they may not be aware of their participation in the NGWS, their actions and attitudes toward life reveal it to be so. As earlier stated, the majority of the group work behind the scenes, slowly trying to influence the trend of events within the environment they serve. The magnitude of their individual efforts may seem small, but in their collectivity they have the power and insight to change the world. To the individual member, it is not the quantity of his/her influence that is important, but instead its quality. Esoterically understood, quality takes precedence or quantity. The work to be done is to till the soil of thought, and to seed the principles that will eventually give rise to humanity’s future view of life and activity. To the personality, this approach to influencing change is often considered to be too slow. In short, the personality is usually in a hurry. Yet, it is the human soul (not the personality) that governs a member of this inner group of knowers. From the soul’s vantage perspective, slow growth and change is most enduring. Of course, this notion is not intended to promote sloth. Indeed the philosophic attitude held by the group is that there is no hurry, and yet there is no time to lose. Both these ideas are true and do not contradict each other.

In this discussion, we have seen that the New Group of World Servers is the hope of the future. Their attitude toward service is one based upon an inner recognition of humanity’s oneness, and a yearning to support its evolution toward a loftier state. This group stands upon a practical platform that advocates the sacredness of the human spirit, and the evolution of life toward greater states of recognized unity. Living according to a vision of oneness is the antidote to the strife and conflict so apparent in the human condition today. The troubles humanity faces are many. Yet, when looked at through the eye of the soul, it is apparent that all our problems are rooted in the false perception of separateness. Giving remedy to this misperception will surely free humanity from its suffering and plight. The New Group of World Servers sees this inner oneness, and is dedicated to helping humanity come to the same recognition. Indeed, they have no other life intention.

© 2004  William Meader

Biographical Information:
William Meader is an author, teacher and counselor. Much of his work is focused on the subjects of Spiritual Creativity, the Evolution of Consciousness and the Art of Meditation. At present he is teaching in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. He resides in Oregon, and can be contacted through his website at www.emergent.wpengine.com.

When we examine the drama of life, we can see that there are three attributes most important to human evolution. They are:

1.          The Emergence of Individualized Mind

2.          Self-Realization via Introspection

3.          The Vision of Duality

It is well to here keep in mind that the human domain is merely the fourth of seven kingdoms in nature. Though we often think that humanity is at the top of the evolutionary ladder, this is a false assumption. We are given to understand that there are three kingdoms in nature (on this planet) where consciousness is further developed than our own. These higher kingdoms exist subjectively, rather than objectively. We therefore do not see them, but their existence is crucial to the understanding of this subject. For example, the fifth kingdom is called the Kingdom of Souls. It is a field of consciousness that is subtler than normal human consciousness, and in its collectivity, it is understood as the kingdom we eventually must evolve toward. These three attributes, therefore, represent features of consciousness that must be developed before one can truly begin to live life within the fifth kingdom. As such, we will examine each of them, and their implications for the full flowering of human consciousness.

The Emergence of Individualized Mind

Though we (as spirit) spent aeons of time evolving through mineral and plant forms, it is our animal consciousness that is most easily recognized within us. We are all too familiar with our animal nature, its instinctual urges and passions. In truth, this aspect of us is merely a remnant of our developmental achievements when life was lived as animal or beast. During that distant age, the spirit within each of us worked toward the development of instinctive mind. Herd consciousness then emerged, and instinctual response was the driving force of our consciousness. The basic instincts of survival were then shaped in the very fabric of our developing consciousness. Even so, the capacity to individually think, ponder, and to reason were not yet developed. Animal life, then and now, hasn’t the capacity to employ these attributes of consciousness. Instead, an animal is largely governed by the instinctual consciousness of its species. Yet, when life eventually evolves out of the animal kingdom and into the human domain, the development of individualized mind becomes the central evolutionary goal. This is one of the most distinguishing features between animal and human life. One is dependent upon instinct, while the other learns to rise above it, and this through the development of independent thought and reason.

To graduate from human life, each of us needs to learn to think clearly, and to demonstrate independent reasoning. This means that to be human requires that we no longer conform to the consciousness of the masses. Mass consciousness is little more than a residual effect of the herd instinct developed when we lived as animals so long ago. At that time it was a useful and necessary aspect of consciousness to be developed and expressed. Yet to a human being, this is no longer true. Independent thought must eventually replace the instinctual animal urges that still, at times, arise within us.

Self-Realization via Introspection

With the advent of the individualized mind, human beings are able to slowly realize their individualness. That is to say that the self, as a construct within consciousness, begins to emerge in one’s awareness. Unlike prehuman life, people are able to realize their individual identity. We are able to know ourselves, particularly in contrast to others. We see our uniqueness, and learn to prize those attributes that make us stand out as different from the masses (herd).  Fundamentally, the discovery of the self is a major development within human consciousness. It occurs via the power of introspection. The capacity to look within is only developed as life enters into the human kingdom. Prior to the human stage, introspection is not possible. For example, an animal is unable to introspect. As such, it cannot examine its feelings and thoughts, and because of this, is unable to arrive at an understanding of itself. Instead, it simply acts and reacts according to its instinctual nature.

More deeply considered, the reason human beings are able to introspect, and therefore realize their unique identity, is that they have individual causal bodies that make such realization possible. The causal body is the vehicle that houses the consciousness of the soul itself. Essentially, it contains those aspects of human awareness related to one’s individualness. By contrast, an animal does not have an individual causal body. Instead, its behavior is governed by the causal body overshadowing the species of which it is a part. This is why animal consciousness is collective and instinctual, for the inner vehicle containing its consciousness is shared by the entire species. Because human beings have individual causal bodies, they are quite different in this regard. As such, humanity’s evolutionary destiny is to realize the value of individualized thought, and through this the self is realized, then actualized.

Though self-realization is a wonderful gift bestowed to humanity, it is not without peril. We need only look at human society, with its selfish tendencies, to see the negative effects that can emerge when the self is realized and asserted. Yet, though such is unquestionably true, the larger truth is that self-discovery is fundamental and essential to continued evolutionary growth. Any attribute of consciousness has the potential of misuse. This is not only possible, but is most often predictable. The first expressions of the self are frequently immature and sometimes destructive. This is so with all newly acquired capacities in consciousness. It should also be stated that this realization of self occurs in two phases over the long evolutionary journey of a human being. For most of the human journey, the identity that is inwardly realized is the personality, or lower self. Yet, toward the later phases of human evolution there is realized a deeper Self, thus indicating that the soul has finally been consciously sensed.

The Vision of Duality

When the higher Self (soul) is beginning to be inwardly felt, then the third attribute of human consciousness becomes operative. This is the realization of the duality inherent in one’s beingness. Specifically, it is the duality of the lower self (personality) in relation to the higher Self (soul) that comes into view. This inner duality, when consciously recognized, gradually becomes a central preoccupation in one’s life. From the esoteric perspective, this is the mark of entrance upon the Spiritual Path. No one is truly living a spiritual life if they are not confronted with this great duality manifest within them. More fundamentally, it is the realization that both the animal and the divine are coexisting within us, and that these two forces are often at odds with each other. Those who are consciously trying to live a spiritual life are all too familiar with this inner duality. For when the radiance of the soul is inwardly sensed, its light is cast upon the personality (lower self). Because of this exposing light, the resisting aspects of the personality are more clearly seen. In occult literature, this aspect of the personality is called the Dweller on the Threshold. Importantly, the realization of this inner Dweller, and its eventual transformation, is central to disciplic life.

In truth, this duality stages an inner conflict that will ultimately lead to enlightenment and liberation. Human spiritual development is rooted in the resolution of this inner duality, and this through the power of soul-infusion. When the soul has fully infused itself into the yielding personality, perfection of human consciousness is then achieved. This is indeed a rare occurrence. It signifies that the inner war is over, for now the personality it completely subservient to the divine soul within. Admittedly, most of us who try to live according to the will of the soul, are partially soul-infused, rather than fully. By way of honest self-appraisal, we can see that our personality desires have, at times, undue influence in our lives. As such, we must remember that spiritual evolution is incremental. The goal is to ever work toward gradually achieving more and more soul infusion into the fabric of our lives. Even so, full infusion is a certainty at some point on the long and arduous Path leading to enlightenment. In some incarnation such an achievement is inevitable. When this is the case, the individual has risen to the summit of human development, and full entrance into the fifth kingdom (Kingdom of Souls) is granted. Then the light of Oneness becomes the dominant theme, for the fully enlightened person has learned to truly live within the field of divine Unity. As such, the urge toward individualism is no more. Prior to this (full soul-infusion), participation in the fifth kingdom is partial, and is considered probationary.

The journey of human evolution follows millions of years of life lived within animal forms. When compared to animal existence, the gains made in human consciousness are truly staggering. Human existence is the first developmental stage where evolving life learns to reason and think independent of animal instinct. In addition, from the power of the individualized human mind emerges the capacity to look within. It is to introspect, and by so doing, learn of our unique and individual nature. Such a realization, though easily misapplied, is nonetheless a sacred gift on this long sojourn of spiritual evolution. Through the continued development of introspection, a human being will eventually realize the higher Self, the soul, hidden deep within. The inner duality (soul and personality) is then clearly seen, and conflict between the two will surely emerge, often with fierceness. Such experience gives indication that one has fully stepped onto the spiritual Path. Gratifying it is to realize that the resolution of this inner conflict leads to eventual enlightenment and liberation from continued human existence.

It has been said that Creation is the out-picturing of Life in search of itself. This is an esoteric notion of major importance. When Life expresses itself within the human domain, then introspection emerges, and the inner search truly begins. Thus makes possible Life’s first real discovery of itself. In truth, Life can only find itself when it inwardly searches — a capacity that begins when evolution reaches the human stage. Such is the privilege and challenge of being human.

© 2002 William Meader

Biographical Information:
William Meader is an author, teacher and counselor. Much of his work is focused on the subjects of Spiritual Creativity, the Evolution of Consciousness and the Art of Meditation. At present he is teaching in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. He resides in Oregon, and can be contacted through his website at www.emergent.wpengine.com.

Each kingdom in nature provides the evolving spirit with certain traits essential to the development of consciousness. To understand this, we must realize that each of Nature’s kingdoms is a category of form through which all life must evolve. The forms found within a kingdom give to the evolving spirit essential attributes. These attributes form the substructure for what will later becomes the reasoning mind, as life evolves into the human kingdom. In this regard, there are two primary attributes etched into animal consciousness. They are:

1.  Instinctual Activity

2.  Devotion to Greater Life

Instinctual Activity

The underpinning of mind is instinct, and it first arises within animal form. Specifically, it is the category of mind that shapes the collective consciousness of a species. Through it, an animal participates in the instinctual behaviors of its kind. Instinct gives rise to collectively defined behaviors that support the perpetuation of animal life. The consciousness of an animal is not individualized, but is instead conditioned by the soul of the species to which it is a part. For example, when an animal is threatened, its survival response emerges automatically. Its capacity to reason, independent of its survival instinct, is not yet developed. As such, instinct is ingrained into the very fabric of an animal’s consciousness. This is true when considering the wide variety of additional behaviors demonstrated by any animal species. The behaviors related to mating, feeding, and social organization are all examples of instinctual activities defined by the consciousness of an animal type. Most important to our consideration, animal instincts always govern the activities of a species in support of its survival.

It is not difficult to see the remnant of animal instinct within humanity today, and this, for both the good and ill. For example, our capacity to develop complex social systems in support of human welfare is rooted in our animal past. Admittedly, humanity’s political, economic and social institutions represent complex elaborations of the human mind. Even so, upon close examination we can see that they fundamentally exist as expressions of our survival instinct; a trait built into our consciousness when animal existence was our lot. Such is an example of the positive aspects of our animal past. Considered negatively, we can see how some attributes of our animal instinct can limit us as a society. For example, the herd instinct (rightly developed in the animal kingdom) can be quite detrimental at times. Herd instinct often gives birth to the shortsightedness and over-reactivity of the masses. In addition, it is the instinctual root for the emergence of gang activity so destructively prevalent in our cities today.

Devotion to Greater Life

In the Esoteric Tradition it is understood that the various forms of life existing on our planet are expressions of utter equality, while simultaneously being hierarchical. The equality of Life is based upon the principle that all expressions of life are cells within the One Life, which is God. In this sense, all life is sacred and equal. Yet, when we consider life as it relates to the evolution of consciousness, inequality (therefore hierarchy) emerges. For example, the consciousness of a human being is far more evolved than is the consciousness of a squirrel or snake, even though in their essential divinity they are absolutely equal. The array of life within a particular kingdom is also hierarchical, and this no matter which kingdom in nature we consider. Within the plant kingdom, for example, a blade of grass is far less evolved (in its consciousness) as compared to a rose or mighty oak tree. In addition, there are certain species of animals that are further evolved than others. Interestingly, the most evolved animal forms are those that are beginning to demonstrate devotion to greater life, namely to human beings.

Dogs, horses, cats, as well as many other species of animal, represent the most evolved life forms within the animal kingdom. Their evolutionary status is largely (though not exclusively) indicated through their close association to humans. Generally speaking, domesticated animals represent the pinnacle of animal evolution. Because of their proximity to human living, they have benefited from humanity’s radiation and aura. It is also true to say that we, as human beings, can learn much from the animal kingdom, particularly as it pertains to living in harmony with nature. A domesticated animal’s willingness to follow human direction is the key to understanding their status. The training of an animal (when lovingly done) shapes behaviors that are antithetical to its instinctual nature. For example, when teaching a dog to “stay”, we are conditioning its consciousness to resist its reactive instinct to move. As such, domestication builds new structures within an animal’s consciousness, and this quite apart from the ingrained instinct that normally governs its actions. Though these new behaviors are rudimentary, they nonetheless form the foundation for what will eventually become individualized consciousness when the animal transfers into the human kingdom in the distant future.

Domestication leads to devotion, and devotion is a special kind of love. It is the type of love that manifests as loyalty toward another. In truth, it is a form of animal affection that recognizes the greater consciousness demonstrating through the person who willingly cares for its well-being and development. This is why humanity’s responsibility toward the animal kingdom is so great. As already stated, kingdoms in nature are hierarchical, and this as measured by their scope of developed consciousness. Animal life is next to enter into the human domain when the greater cycles of time permit such entrance. Given this fact, humanity’s duty to care for and protect animal life cannot be understated. Human beings have a divine responsibility to lovingly prepare animal life with the rudiments of independent thought, in preparation for their eventual entry into the human kingdom. Wise training, based upon patient love, insures that this preparation occur without harm.

When life enters into the human kingdom, this devotional note continues to evolve. Our devotion to family, friends and nation are manifestations of this same quality implanted within us so long ago. Even our devotion to God is a part of our animal legacy. As animals we learned to supplicate to the will of a greater life (human), just as today humans supplicate to a still Greater Life (God).  For to an animal, a human being is a god. Animal husbandry is therefore a far greater responsibility than may first appear. To love and train an animal is to give it divine guidance in support of its evolution toward non-instinctual thought.

Consciousness expands as Life evolves through Nature’s great divisions (kingdoms). Life within the mineral and plant kingdoms existed for us, but the seeds of such experience have long disappeared from view. Yet, our animal legacy is still recognizable within us. We know all too well the animal still living within the recesses of our thoughts and desires. In truth, our animal instincts are both friend and foe, for they have the power to save or imprison us, and it is we who define which it shall be. For millions of years we lived as feral creatures upon the Earth. At that time, instinctual mind marked our crowning achievement. Today that same instinct is what draws us together in search of societal forms that will support humanity’s collective welfare. Most importantly, instinct serves as the foundation of individualized consciousness, which is the major developmental theme of our human existence.

Toward the later phase of our animal past, the quality of devotion toward greater life began to emerge. During that distant epoch, we unconsciously sensed a greater life expressing through the humanity of the time, and devotedly supplicated ourselves to its wise and loving guidance. That etching within consciousness is still shaping our lives today, but at a higher level of experience. We now consciously (or unconsciously) sense a greater life beyond our human existence. This grander Entity we call by many names. Some call it God, while others refer to it as Brahman, Universal Intelligence, or simply the Laws of Nature. Whatever the title, humanity devotedly supplicates to this Greater Being. In truth, it was when we lived as animals that the seeds of this tendency were implanted within us. Such is the great gift bestowed upon us so very long ago, for it gave to us the ability to yearn for the greater expressions of Life.

© 2002 William Meader

Biographical Information:
William Meader is an author, teacher and counselor. Much of his work is focused on the subjects of Spiritual Creativity, the Evolution of Consciousness and the Art of Meditation. At present he is teaching in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. He resides in Oregon, and can be contacted through his website at www.emergent.wpengine.com.

To begin our inquiry into this obscure subject, we must first acquaint ourselves with the principle of hylozoism. It is an axiom that is foundational to the esoteric view of reality, and therefore crucial in our consideration of the mineral kingdom. Hylozoism is an ancient spiritual law that suggests that there is no such thing as inorganic matter. For long we have been conditioned to believe that there is a distinction between matter that is living from substance that is void of life. This organic/inorganic distinction has been a major conditioning factor in the way modern humanity views existence. Yet, this is occultly considered an erroneous view.  Ancient esotericism states that there is only One Life in all of creation, and that the universe (and all that it contains) is the outward expression of that One Life. In our Western framework we call this universal entity God, and from the Eastern viewpoint Brahma is the title given to this all encompassing being. It is not God and creation but God as creation that is at the root of esoteric thought. We can see why it is, therefore, that the organic/inorganic duality is illusionary. For if there is only One Life manifesting as (and through) creation, then nothing can escape the livingness of that One Life, not even mineral forms.

Having established the hylozoic principle, we need then to understand that the spirit (monad) within each human being is destined to evolve through every kingdom of nature, from lowest to highest. The fact that we exist in the human kingdom necessitates that we have already journeyed though three previous domains of life – the mineral, vegetable and animal kingdoms. There is an old saying that the spirit sleeps in the mineral, awakens in the vegetable, develops motion in the animal, and realizes its individual consciousness in the human kingdom. Though a simple notion to be sure, it nonetheless is an expression of a profound truth. Each kingdom in nature provides the spirit with new and important attributes essential for developing self-consciousness when it finally begins its journey through the human kingdom. The amount of time a monad resides within a kingdom of nature is enormously long, spanning millions of years per kingdom, the longest being the period of mineral existence.

Because the mineral kingdom is the foundational domain in nature, it provides the monad with the experiences necessary to develop the foundation of consciousness. To understand what is learned when in this kingdom, we must first consider what life is like for the monad (individual spirit) prior to it incarnating into mineral forms. In truth, words can’t adequately describe such a state. However, a poor attempt would be to say that it is divine bliss, ignorantly perceived. At this pre-incarnational time, the monad is not individually conscious. Rather it is naively identified with the Boundless All (to use an ancient name for God), and the bliss that accompanies such a state. It does not know itself as a part within the whole. The journey of the monad through the kingdoms of nature make it possible for it to slowly discover its own individualness. When this long sojourn is complete (after traveling through 7 kingdoms of nature) the monad is then able to know itself as individual and universal, the part and whole, and this simultaneously. It is what all people, as spirits, are seeking to eventually realize, and will inevitably do so in the distant future. The monad’s descent into the mineral kingdom provides it with experience that is foundational to understanding itself as individual, though such realization does not manifest consciously until it reaches the human kingdom. When incarnate as mineral, the monad is forced to exist in a state of inert concretion. As it descends into mineral form, it experiences a condensation of itself. In so doing, it sacrifices its realized unity with the Boundless All, in order to begin to experience itself as an individual part. Mineral existence is the most isolative and restrictive domain of life. As such, the spirit is forced to realize profound limitation. As earlier stated, this is not a conscious realization, because at this point in its development the monad cannot reflect on its experience. Rather, mineral experience creates the first unconscious etchings into that which becomes the mind much later. To use a very tangible analogy, we can examine the life of a newborn baby to see this dynamic at work. As is well known through research, the consciousness of a newborn child is non-dualistic. For the first few weeks of life, a child is unable to distinguish between him/herself and the world around him/her. To the newborn, s/he is all that is, and it is only later that the mind begins to correctly separate these two aspects of experience. Eventually, through the gradual development of the brain and the interactions experienced with the environment, the child becomes aware of the subject/object distinction, the self and the not-self. By analogy, we can see that this is similar to the dilemma that the monad faces as it enters into the mineral kingdom, in that the issue centers upon the assumption of being the All, and the forfeiture of that awareness in order to discover its individualness.

While in this first kingdom, the monad evolves through four broad categories of mineral. Each of these categories provides the spirit with needed experience. Below are these categories, as well as their developmental sequence. Each movement from one category to another is equivalent to an initiation of sorts, and has a correspondence to the spiritual initiations that a human must eventually go through (see article entitled, Spiritual Initiation, Milestones to Enlightenment. Point of Light, Summer 2001 issue).

Base Metals                              1st initiation

Standard Metals                        2nd initiation

Semi-Precious Stones               3rd initiation

Precious Jewels                        4th initiation

When we speak of evolution within the mineral kingdom, fire, heat and pressure are the forces that facilitate this evolution. These tectonic forces create the circumstances needed for the monad to evolve through the categories of mineral forms noted above. This too is similar to the experiences of a human being who is trying to evolve consciously upon the Path. Always initiation is a fiery experience generated by the soul, and through the resulting inner heat, the lower self is thus transformed. This is experienced by the human personality (lower-self) as an inner pressure that forces conformity to the soul’s intention.

Most importantly, as the monad slowly evolves through the mineral kingdom, two essential attributes are gradually developed. They are the qualities of geometric precision, and the power of radiation, both of which make it possible for the monad to evolve into higher kingdoms of nature. With regard to the first attribute, geometric precision, we are here referring to the monad incarnating as crystalline structure, and to thereby demonstrate the capacity to organize physical substance with mathematical exactness. The geometric precision evident in a crystal is testament to the power of its indwelling life to efficiently organize its form expression. This attribute will continue its expression in various ways, even after the spirit has evolved into higher kingdoms.

The forms found in the plant and animal kingdoms are more complex, and are precise in their geometries. In the case of the human body, the quality of geometric precision is clearly evident in its complexity and symmetry. As such, the experiences learned when in crystalline substance make these later elaborations of higher forms possible.

The second attribute that the spirit must develop (in rudimentary form) is the capacity to be radioactive. Radioactive substance, such as uranium, represents a form of mineral life of a very high order. Its capacity to emit radiation indicates that it has mastered its form expression to such an extent that its inherent life is not longer imprisoned within that form. As such, radiation is understood as the livingness of spirit radiating through form without encumberment. This attribute, now foundationally developed in the mineral kingdom, makes it possible for the spirit to express its essential nature through higher forms of life within more evolved kingdoms. For example, one need only witness the beauty of a flower to recognize the life principle radiating through such a magnificent form of life. Within the human kingdom, this quality is further developed. Over the course of countless incarnations, the human soul learns how to radiate its essential nature through the mental, emotional and physical bodies it is encased within. Enlightenment is then achieved. For what is enlightenment, but the capacity of the soul to radiate its “light” through its lower forms, and thus demonstrate its radioactive power? Such a state of development indicates that there is no longer anything within one’s personality that can now hinder the light of the soul from shining through its personality vehicle. This then signifies that one has mastered form life within the human kingdom, and liberation into the 5th kingdom is now his/her immediate destiny. This is precisely what is occurring with life found within radioactive substance, though of course on a much lower level of evolution. In this case, the spirit within such form is demonstrating perfection of expression through that form, and liberation into the vegetable kingdom is now its just reward. At the beginning of the spirit’s journey into the mineral domain, its life was completely imprisoned in a condition of inertness. Yet, through the fiery ordeal of heat and pressure its capacity slowly grows, and at the acme of its mineral experience the spirit then demonstrates its readiness to upward move, for the glory of its radioactive display gives testament to this readiness. The rite of passage is then granted, and a new regime in the growth of consciousness begins, but now of a higher order. Whether mineral, vegetable, animal or human, movement from one kingdom to the next must be earned. Always this is done through demonstrating freedom from the form limitations found within the kingdom that the spirit desires to rise above. Such is the nature of evolution.

In this brief discussion we have focused on the fact that life is evolving through all kingdoms in nature, including the mineral domain. Contrary to most scientific thought, minerals are teeming with life, thus casting aside the illusion of organic versus inorganic matter. In truth, each and every human being, by necessity, evolved through the mineral kingdom aeons ago. It is a past hidden deep within the recesses of consciousness. During that time so long ago, the foundations of the human mind were laid. It was a period when consciousness was so subtle and undeveloped that the specific experiences are not retrievable to our conscious minds. Though the memory of it is lost in the mist of time, the gift of efficient organization of form, and the power to radiate one’s being through form, were the foundational lessons learned when we resided within the mineral kingdom. Without such rudimentary experiences, we could not be the complex beings that we are today. Our experience as mineral life established the substructure from which higher dimensions in consciousness could later be built. As we walk along the countless footpaths of nature, let us therefore be more mindful of the ground that we are stepping upon, for to know its livingness is to appreciate its sacredness.

© 2001  William Meader

Biographical Information:
William Meader is an author, teacher and counselor. Much of his work is focused on the subjects of Spiritual Creativity, the Evolution of Consciousness and the Art of Meditation. At present he is teaching in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. He resides in Oregon, and can be contacted through his website at www.emergent.wpengine.com.

Music is a force that has the power to awaken the heart. When the mind is free from its analytical tendency, the heart is then receptive to the uplifting vibrations concealed within music. Lofty music is a great transmitter of love, and its gate of entrance is the heart chakra within each of us.  Indeed, the heart is the place where music (in its highest form) is destined to touch. In our society music most often reaches the masses through the solar plexus – the chakra that gives rise to emotion and desire. This is why music becomes important as a person enters the adolescent phase of life. During that time, one’s emotional nature is becoming increasingly active, and likewise does the solar plexus. The music of one’s youth is therefore laden with emotion. Yet, as one matures (and the soul becomes more influential in his/her life) music will increasingly be felt in the heart, not the solar plexus. Love will then be experienced – a thing quite different than emotion or desire. This is the true destiny of music, at least when considering its role as a force that facilitates spiritual development. It is through the heart chakra that lofty music is realized, and the heart is the outer representative of the soul hidden deep within.

Sound can be used for both good and ill. This is most easily recognized in the words we use in dialogue with others. Human speech is a means by which we share ideas. It is the art of shaping sounds into words or lyrics that will touch others in some way. The words we speak inevitably create outer effects. When loving and wise, these words (sounds) will have an uplifting effect upon those they touch. Conversely, when motivated by lack of insight or selfish intent, language can be antithetical to the well being of others, and at times even destructive. Here we see the power of sound as it is conveyed in the spoken word. In truth, this principle is at the heart of the soul’s creative (magical) process. All things in civilization are the product of ideas transmitted through the power of word, song or artistic expression. Other factors, such as intonation, syntax, volume and cadence all contribute to the power of the sounds we convey through language. Wise consideration as to the words we use is therefore well advised. To shape one’s language with wisdom is to conform to the larger rhythm sounding forth within creation. Evolution demands that a lesser sound must eventually harmonize with the greater sound that has given it birth. This is a spiritual principle of great importance.

The same can be said of the music we create. It too represents a “sounding forth” and therefore has either positive or negative effects. When music leads the listener to touch a deep and meaningful aspect of his/her soul, then its power is evolutionary and profound. In such cases, the listener’s soul becomes the agent of the ear. An inner sense of harmony and spiritual depth is then recognized within music. However, music can also be quite destructive. One only needs to witness the nature of much (but not all) popularized music today to see evidence of this. When dissonance and discord is its major theme, it will tend to create disharmonious effects. Please note the word “major” in the previous sentence. Some music will have dissonance as a feature of its expression, but its larger theme is not dissonance, but instead its resolution. When this is case, it can be a powerful creative force in support of the soul and its development. It provides the listener with an inner sense of the drama of evolution. In many ways, spiritual transformation is based on the notion that the personality and soul are slowly evolving their relationship from one of dissonance to one of harmonious rapport. It is a musical interaction occurring over the course of countless lives. Therefore music that highlights (through chord progression) the struggle to achieve harmony out of chaotic discord is symbolically consistent with the drama of evolution itself. It therefore has great value to a human being because it shapes his/her consciousness with a sensed understanding that through crisis a higher harmony will be found.

Looked at with greater depth, esoteric literature suggests that the soul is sounding a note and is doing so for the entire duration of an incarnation. This note represents the soul’s essential quality and nature. In the soul’s long evolutionary journey, its intention is to sound its note through the personality as a means of serving the outer world. Interestingly, the lower self (personality) is also sounding its own independent note. By this is meant that the human personality has a quality of vibration in and of itself. The differences between people (that are most easily recognized) are largely differences evident in the notes (qualities) that their personalities represent. These notes are vibrational. What we consider a personality trait is simply our interpretation of a unique vibrational tone emitted by that personality.

For many incarnations these two notes (soul and personality) are discordant. This simply means that the personality is inharmonious with the soul’s downward chant. Indeed, for thousands of lives the soul’s tonal whisper is not even heard by the personality. This is because the personality’s note is so loud that it drowns out the subtle sound that the soul continuously sings. Eventually there will come an incarnation when the music of the soul is inwardly sensed for the first time. When this occurs, the personality recognizes that there is a subtle sound behind what it thought itself to be. This then stages the beginning of the spiritual journey, in that the individual now struggles with the problem of how to bring more of the soul into his/her outer personal life. The spiritual journey has to do with the gradual transformation of the personality (its nature and note) so that it willingly yields to the soul’s creative agenda. It is the process, slow and laborious, of blending these two tones so that their dissonance is transformed into harmony and therefore beauty. This transformation involves an adjustment of the personality so that its note begins to resonate with the soul’s chanted tone. This is why living a conscious spiritual life can be so difficult. It involves a tuning up of the lower self, a thing that the personality inherently resists. In some cases it may actually require a change of key. Woven into the fabric of spiritual evolution is the fact that soulful harmony must be earned, and this, through the lessons learned as one struggles through dissonance. When this is fully achieved (and held) enlightenment is sure reward.

Within the Esoteric Tradition it is said that someday humanity will discover the means to use sound and music as part of the art of healing. Already it is clear that certain music can have a soothing effect on the human nervous system, which invariably is helpful in the healing process. Music is an amazing tool that can help reduce a person’s stress level. In this regard it is often used to facilitate various relaxation and meditation techniques. In the future, the therapeutic implications of music will be understood more fully from a spiritual perspective. The note of the soul will be realized as having a tremendous relationship to a person’s health and well being, both physically and psychologically considered. The nature of death, and the uses of sound in support of the death process, will also be better understood in time. For example, certain sounds presented within the death chamber will facilitate the departure of the soul from its containment within the human body. These sounds will have much relationship to the note of the soul, as well as the tone that is being orchestrated by the Larger Life that the soul is an “instrument” within. Importantly, we are given to understand that the music used at the time of death needs to have a single recurring chord as an overtone that accompanies it. The art of dying is not yet understood within most Western cultures. It is probably accurate to say that we live in a death denying society. Nonetheless, the day will come when our appreciation of death shall be as great as our attachment to life. At that time, death will be understood as an abstracting process of the soul as it yearns to reconnect with the greater melody coming forth from its cosmic birthplace. Music will then be fully understood as a means to support this departure.

As has been stated, sound is the foundation for the emergence of the universe and all things contained within it. The Greek notion of the “music of the spheres” is a reference to the fact that sound forms the matrix of existence itself. Because sound is related to the universe in this way, its attributes should have correlation to the universe as well. This it surely does. An example of this is rhythm. When we are attentive to the rhythm of music, we are participating in the experience of time, and time is a feature foundational to the universe itself. Herein is found a deep clue as to the nature of music and its relationship to the universe as a whole. Metaphysically considered, as God sounded forth the universe, the principle of rhythm immediately emerged and thus time was born.

In this discussion, we have examined sound from both a practical and metaphysical perspective. Music is a great force in support of human betterment and spiritual evolution. Its usefulness as a tool in support of healing cannot be denied. This will be further developed as we each come to a realization of the sacred sound residing deep within ourselves. Through the effective use of music, the human heart awakens and the oneness of humanity is then truly sensed. Love is rooted in this fact. Esoterically understood, love emerges from the ability to sense the inner unity underlying outer diversity. Uplifting music brings us closer to sensing this underlying unity through the opening of the heart. To touch the heart via music is to find the gate that leads to the soul and beyond.

It must be remembered that creation itself is an expression of sound echoing through (and as) time and space. In truth, every entity within creation is a musical composition in the making, and a human being is no exception. The soul within each of us is sounding its sacred and eternal note. When the personality is willing to “change its tune” so as to resonate to that sacred note, the soul can truly shine forth within one’s life. When the soul and personality notes are harmonized, a sacred chord is formed. And when that chord is united with the clarion sound of the cosmic symphony, the music of the spheres is truly known. The sonata of the Master Musician is then heard.

© 2004  William Meader

Biographical Information:
William Meader is an author, teacher and counselor. Much of his work is focused on the subjects of Spiritual Creativity, the Evolution of Consciousness and the Art of Meditation. At present he is teaching in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. He resides in Oregon, and can be contacted through his website at www.emergent.wpengine.com.

As is implied by its title, the Path of Purification relates to a form of spiritual cleansing and refinement. It is a phase when an individual deeply recognizes that spiritual development can only occur when the distortions of the personality (lower self) have been transformed. Every evolutionary step upon the Path is accomplished only because a measure of purification has been demonstratively achieved. From this cleansing, an individual is better able to sense the intuitive impulses coming from the soul. Purification therefore suggests that the threefold personality (mental, emotional and physical) needs to be cleansed and sanctified in order to rightly register the soul’s guidance and wisdom. Indeed, the degree of perceptual illusion a person experiences (as we all do) is directly related to the measure of impurity existing within the personality. Given this understanding, it can be seen that to walk the Path requires that one continuously work toward the purification of some aspect of the lower self. This is true when considering the physical body, but it is relevant to the emotional and mental aspects of the personality as well.

Though it is true that the role of purification is fundamental to all phases of spiritual development, when referencing the Path of Purification, we are actually highlighting one particular segment of the long journey toward enlightenment. Essentially, the Path of Purification is a reference to the beginning of the Endless Way (as the evolutionary path is sometimes called). As earlier noted, entrance onto it is a crucial event in the soul’s long evolutionary journey. When first entered, it indicates that an individual has awakened something within him/herself (for the first time) that transcends all normal human experience. It is a flashing forth of the soul, and is consciously registered within the mind as a form of divine intervention or communication. This is what is normally occurring when the born-again Christian speaks of being saved by Jesus, and in the process, develops a personal relationship with Him. Esoterically considered, this indicates entrance to the Path of Purification. Yet the explanation of the experience (by the born-again Christian) is slightly amiss, though understandably so. The soul is the great representative of the Christ Principle within every human being. As such, when the soul is first “consciously” encountered by the personality, it is often confused for another being, rather than one’s own higher-self (soul). Within Christendom, this mistaken identity is normally believed to be Jesus Christ. However, it is not the person of Jesus that is being realized by the aspirant. Rather, it is his/her personal soul that has been consciously sensed. And, because the soul holds the vibrational qualities of profound love and wisdom (which are characteristics of the Christ Principle) it is easy to see how the newly-awakened aspirant would misjudge the event. As time proceeds, this misinterpretation is corrected, though it often takes a few incarnations for right understanding to be fully achieved. Nonetheless, entrance onto the Path of Purification, though often misinterpreted, begins when the light of the soul breaks forth upon the shores of the mind for the first time.

When an individual encounters this awakening, the experience is uplifting and profound. Yet, unexpectedly, it is an event that is short-lived. The soul touches the heart and mind then mysteriously retreats within the recesses of consciousness. It seemingly disappears, often leaving the fledgling aspirant bereft and confused. The light of the soul has made its mark, but without warning it departs. Yet from this brief encounter, an individual’s life orientation is forever changed. The soul, which for many incarnations had remained in the background, has now revealed itself directly, even though fleetingly. From that day forward, spiritual life is no longer governed by faith alone. Experiential knowledge supersedes complete reliance on faith, and from this awakening, the seeker is born.

Because the first encounter with the soul is short-lived, the aspirant begins a quest in an effort to recapture the experience. Generally speaking, this quest manifests in one of two ways. For many, it leads down the road to theological orthodoxy. This is not only true when considering the born again Christian, but also fundamentalists found within the Islamic, Hindu and Jewish traditions. To such people, the yearning to re-experience the flash of the soul is believed to be found within a traditional spiritual framework. The choice of such a direction is largely based upon the assumption that because religious fundamentalism is old, it must be correct. In such cases (and usually unconscious to the person holding the view), spiritual validity and time-honored status are related.  In addition, fundamentalist theology gives to the seeker a strict set of behavioral and moral precepts that must be followed. Though this is a wayward notion, such a person assumes that through rigid conformity to these behavioral demands, the light of the soul will break through once again.

Unlike this narrow view, others seek to recapture the light of the soul by sampling widely diverse spiritual approaches. Adherents within the New Age Movement are good examples of this. It is a movement filled with diverse spiritual notions, many of which are rooted in profound truth. Unfortunately, these truths are often distorted by those who proclaim them. Such people are usually newly awakened aspirants, and are just beginning the journey upon the Path of Purification. However, instead of adopting a narrow approach (as in orthodoxy), their search is widely diverse but comparatively shallow.

Whether the seeker chooses an orthodox or diverse quest, both are inadequate to create the recapturing of the soul’s light. Orthodoxy provides depth, but only through a literal interpretation of scripture. From the esoteric perspective, the deeper meaning of holy texts (whether speaking of the Bible, Koran, or the Bhagavad-Gita) is revealed through the abstract and metaphoric wisdom they contain. Because of its emphasis on literalism, the deeper truths are unrealized by those who adhere to an orthodox view. On the other hand, the New Age devotee sees the diversity of paths leading to truth, and is usually comfortable with abstract ideas and metaphoric realization. However, his/her approach is highly glamorized and lacks the kind of spiritual discipline that is required.  Both approaches are therefore immature attempts at committing oneself to a spiritual path and the discipline that it entails. Even so, they are still conscious attempts to find a deeper truth within. And, though their search is initially outward and misdirected, it is nonetheless a quest for spiritual light, and this is to be prized. As time progresses the outward search inevitably fails, and the individual begins to shift from an external to an internal search. The deeper aspects of the spiritual life are then realized as existing within oneself. This then leads to a new and disturbing realization. It is the notion that perhaps the reason the soul’s light is difficult to recapture is because there is something impure within oneself. This realization is crucial. From it, a commitment to purify the personality becomes operative and central to the spiritual journey.  In the truest sense, this is when the seeker fully steps onto the Path of Purification.

The Path of Purification is filled with various disciplines. To truly walk it demands that the aspirant inwardly realize that the impurities found within his/her personality are the major obstacles to spiritual progress. From this inner confession, various spiritual disciplines are adopted, most of which are related to the physical body.  For example, dedication to physical exercise and a focused dietary regime are frequently adopted. A preoccupation with the quality and purity of food becomes central to an individual’s life interest. In addition, movement toward a vegetarian diet normally occurs while on the Path of Purification. At times, these disciplines can become fanatical. This however is eventually tempered over the next few incarnations, becoming a balanced and wise understanding of the importance of taking care of the body, but without fanatical adherence.

Another significant development is the cultivation of good character. The aspirant slowly adopts the attitude that goodness toward others must be fostered. The expression of authentic kindness and compassion are thus cultivated. This attitude does not emerge because society has deemed it appropriate. Rather, it represents a residual effect of having touched the soul at the time of the awakening. Indeed, the needs of humanity become increasingly important, and the spirit of altruism begins to take root. Essentially, the aspirant is slowly trying to become a fit instrument for the embodiment of Christ. Here again, I am not speaking of Christ as a person. Instead, it is in reference to the soul, which is one’s personal Christ. Essentially, the Path of Purification is staged to slowly prepare an individual to become a vehicle that shall someday fully house the soul. For those upon this path, the physical body is considered the temple of the soul. Because of this, it is not surprising that the purificatory emphasis tends to be directed toward the health and well-being of one’s physical form. Later in the journey the seeker realizes that the emotional and mental bodies are temples of the soul as well, and equally so. Yet for now, the physical body and its betterment is where most of the aspirant’s attention is directed.

The Path of Purification lasts for several incarnations. When treading this path, the aspirant is often unconscious (or only semi-conscious) of his/her deeper motives for purifying the body and striving to develop good character. In such cases, the actual awakening most likely took place during a previous incarnation. Therefore the memory of the flashing forth of the soul is not immediately available. Nonetheless, the individual is impulsed by this unconscious memory, even though his/her rationalizing mind may explain the effort as pragmatically driven rather than spiritually motivated.

As we have seen, the Path of Purification begins when an individual consciously awakens to the light of the soul deep within. It is a realization unparalleled in life, and opens the door to a wider vista of spiritual understanding. As a result, faith finds its rightful companion—experiential knowledge of the soul itself. Yet, because the awakening to the soul is initially fleeting, a quest to recapture the experience ensues. This search leads to a realization that impurity within the personality (particularly the physical body) is the reason the soul’s light is no longer sensed. Physical purification then becomes the seeker’s preoccupation, and this, in hopes of becoming a purer container for the soul’s downward gaze. When the Path of Purification is completed, the title of disciple is bestowed upon the seeker. By this is meant that s/he has learned to become a disciple of the soul. On that day, the individual steps off of the Path of Purification and unto the Path of Discipleship—the final road leading to full enlightenment.

© 2005  William Meader

Biographical Information:

William Meader is an author, teacher and counselor. Much of his work is focused on the subjects ofSpiritual Creativity, the Evolution of Consciousness and the Art of Meditation. At present he is teaching in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. He resides in Oregon, and can be contacted through his website at www.emergent.wpengine.com.