Fall 2012, Volume 8, Number 3

The Esoteric Quarterly A publication of the School for Esoteric Studies ______Esoteric philosophy and its applications to individual and group service and the expansion of human consciousness.

The School for Esoteric Studies 345 S. French Broad Avenue, Suite 300. Asheville, North Carolina 28801, USA. www.esotericstudies.net/quarterly; e-mail: [email protected].

The Esoteric Quarterly

The Esoteric Quarterly is published by the School for Esoteric Studies. It is registered as an online journal with the National Serials Data Program of the Library of Congress. International Standard Serial Number (ISSN) 1551-3874.

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Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief: Donna M. Brown (United States) Editor Emeritus: John F. Nash (United States)

Alison Deadman (United States) Judy Jacka (Australia) Gail G. Jolley (United States) Katherine O'Brien (New Zealand)

Webmaster: Dorothy I. Riddle (Canada)

Copies of the complete journal or articles contained therein may be made for personal use on condition that copyright statements are included. Commercial use without the permission of The Esoteric Quarterly and the School for Esoteric Studies is strictly prohibited. Fall 2012

The Esoteric Quarterly

Contents Volume 8, Number 3. Fall 2012

Page Page

Features Triple Sign Meditations 53 Stephen D. Pugh Editorial 5 Great Esotericists Publication Policies 6 Letter to the Editor 7 Tallapragada Subba Row 67 Poems of the Quarter: “The 8 Student Paper Pure Are,” “Alone in the Triangle” and “In the Modern Science and Its 70 Beginning” by Irina Kuzminsky Connection with Ancient Spiritual Traditions Picture of the Quarter: 9 “Intentional Bliss” by David C. Galloway Christopher Beikmann Book Reviews Quotes of the Quarter 10 Essence of the Bhagavad Gita: 73 Advertisements 12 A Contemporary Guide to Yoga, Meditation and Indian Articles Philosophy The New World Religion: By Eknath Easwaran 17 Opportunities and Challenges Evolutionary Enlightenment: 74 John F. Nash A New Path to Spiritual Awakening Ways of Approach to 39 Understanding the Seven Rays By Andrew Cohen Iván Kovács

The mission of the Esoteric Quarterly is to traditions. We also encourage feedback from provide a forum for the exploration of esoteric readers. Comments of general interest will be philosophy and its applications. Full-length published as Letters to the Editor. All articles and student papers are solicited communications should be sent to: pertaining to both eastern and western esoteric [email protected].

Fractal Butterfly Flower by Peggi Wolfe wolfepaw.deviantart.com

Death: Entrance into a Fuller Life he problem of death is founded upon love of life and love of the physical T form. As the consciousness of thinking humanity rises from personal to transpersonal levels where we begin to know ourselves as the Soul, our attachment to physical form loosens and a new understanding and experience of death becomes possible. The Soul does not know death or the fear of death. Through the Soul we gain a sense of participation and cooperation in the cyclic process of life; we can meet death in a different way and can prepare for it as simply the Bringer of Changes. What then do people experience during transition from life in form to life without form? Is it possible to gain control of the process? Answers can be found in a 34- page compilation of the writings of Alice A. Bailey, Death: Entrance into Fuller Life, available free: School for Esoteric Studies 375 S. French Broad Avenue Asheville, NC 28801 Email: [email protected] - www.esotericstudies.net

Editorial The Sapiential Function and the Transmission of Trans-Himalayan Knowledge

he Trans-Himalayan system of thought appointed place as part of the new religion. He T represents a synthesis of profound ideas or also takes aim at the negative attitudes that wisdom garnered from the great religious, some esotericists have adopted with respect to philosophical and psycho-spiritual traditions of the major Christian denominations. Although East and West. As such, the Trans-Himalayan Nash cites justifiable concern with the system, also known as Esoteric Philosophy, institutional Church, he points out that venerates the sapiential literature, both old and Christianity’s numerous insufficiencies “must new, of the world’s metaphysical traditions. be balanced with its achievements and ongoing These teachings esteem the wisdom of the attempts to reform.” The article concludes with ancients and provide a new level of philo- an examination of the “opportunities that are sophic insight that allows humanity to both open to Christians and esotericists who might plan for the future and advance its present be drawn to facilitate transformation within the state. Their primary function is to impart Church.” universal truths on the nature and origin of Iván Kovács contributes our second full-length reality, the ultimate and overarching meaning feature. His article surveys the ways in which of human existence and its relationship to the knowledge of the Seven Rays is being Divine. disseminated by individuals in the esoteric Each of the featured articles in this issue community, the psychological profession and explores and expounds upon the sapiential elsewhere. Written for those who are relative aspects of the Ageless Wisdom. One article newcomers to esoteric teachings and the prompts us to rediscover the wisdom Science of the Seven Rays, the article’s dimension in one of the world’s foremost primary concern is not with providing religious traditions. Another examines the comprehensive information about each ray, but liberating philosophy of the Wisdom teachings with an examination of the latest material on esoteric psychology and the study of the written after Alice Bailey’s pivotal exegesis on Seven Rays, while the third article examines the theme. The article begins with a concise an advanced meditation technique designed to introduction and description of the rays. This is help evoke the energies of Life or the Monad. followed by a discussion on the rays from Each article, therefore, performs a sapiential Rosicrucian, Anthroposophical, Theosophical function by emotionally connecting the knower and Psychological perspectives. Kovács gives with the known and by piercing the heart with special emphasis to the contributions of Kurt the light of Wisdom so that the Light of Life Abraham and Michael Robbins whose works can be eventually seen. serve as the most important adjunct to Bailey’s teachings to date. His article closes with some The first article, by John Nash, examines examples of how to think more creatively Christianity’s often overlooked but found- about the rays. ational role in the New World Religion. Drawing on the teachings of Alice A. Bailey, The last full-length article in this issue—Triple the article elaborates on the characteristics of Sign Meditations—is from Stephen Pugh. The the new religion, the role of the Christ, the article describes a creative process that begins masters and their senior disciples. The author with the establishment of a relationship touches upon Christianity’s failings as well as between the Sun Sign and Rising Signs so that the nature of the renovation that Christianity the disciple, who is identified with his or her must undergo in order for it to take its Soul Purpose through the Ascendant, can bring

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly, 2012. 5 The Esoteric Quarterly the Sun Sign and Opposite Sign together his “Buddhist Gallery” which weaves elements through a planned process of invocation and of nature with Buddhist spiritual themes. To evocation. This two part process results in a share in his exploration of the world’s religions fusion of the subjective potencies of the Sun or and metaphysics and their correspondence to Personality, Soul or Ascendant and Monad or the evocative beauty of the natural world, we Opposite Sign. Triple Sign Meditations invite you to visit the artist’s website at: presents an insightful overview of this new http://www.ancientartizen.com/. method of aligning and blending these three energies. It achieves its aims, in part, Publication Policies by showing how the Science of Triangles Articles are selected for publication in the pertains to the human system via the astrology Esoteric Quarterly because we believe they of the spirit, soul and body. represent a sincere search for truth, support the In addition to the featured articles, we have service mission to which we aspire, and/or included a student paper by David Galloway contribute to the expansion of human titled Modern Science and Its Connection with consciousness. Ancient Spiritual Traditions, as well as a short Publication of an article does not necessarily paper contributed by John Nash, exploring the imply that the Editorial Board or the School life of Tallapragada Subba Row, one of the for Esoteric Studies agrees with the views Great Esotericists of the Past. Also included expressed. Nor do we have the means to verify are two book reviews: the first of which all facts stated in published articles. evaluates the contemporary relevance and Essence of the Bhagavad Gita, by Eknath We encourage critical thinking and analysis Easwaran. The second review is for a highly from a wide range of perspectives and acclaimed book by Andrew Cohen titled traditions. We discourage dogmatism or any Evolutionary Enlightenment. view that characterizes any tradition as having greater truth than a competing system. Finally, we want to draw your attention to our Poems and Picture of the Quarter. The poems Neither will we allow our journal to be used as in this issue are from Irina Kuzminksy, the a platform for attacks on individuals, groups, Russian born dancer, singer, pianist and poet, institutions, or nations. This policy applies to who describes her poetry as “opening a space articles and features as well as to letters to the that allows us to touch the universe and be editor. In turn, we understand that the author of touched by it in turn… a space which is both an article may not necessarily agree with the our starting place, the object of our quest and views, attitudes, or values expressed by a its completion in a higher octave…” For more referenced source. Indeed, serious scholarship information on Irina’s rich body of work, sometimes requires reference to work that an much of which is “centered around the desire author finds abhorrent. We will not reject an to rediscover and reconnect with the Divine article for publication simply on the grounds Feminine in all of its manifestations,” we that it contains a reference to an objectionable encourage you to visit her website at: source. http://irinakuzminsky.com/poetry/. An issue of concern in all online journals is potential volatility of content. Conceivably, The artwork featured in this issue is from articles could be modified after the publication Christopher Beikmann, one of our previous date because authors changed their minds contributors. Many of you will remember the about what had been written. Accordingly we internationally recognized artist specializing in wish to make our policy clear: We reserve the digital photo collage whose works graced the right to correct minor typographical errors, but Fall 2009 and the Winter 2010 issues with we will not make any substantive alteration to Autumn Wisdom and Winter Peace. His most an article after it “goes to press.” current offering—Intentional Bliss— is from

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor: One must not suspect a lack of preciseness in indications when I say that psychic When I saw John Nash’s article: “Stigmata and energy must not only be strengthened but the Initiatory Path,” I was initially surprised at should also be refined. It will be the choice of topic, one that I would have strengthened under the waves of fire, when considered outdated for these times. However, the aura will begin to take on a purple color I found the article intriguing, and my thoughts due to tensity. It will begin to refine from wandered off into finding the relevance of alertness, sharp-sightedness and subtlety of stigmatism for occultists, because their thinking. How may one more exactly term primary experience would not be the physical the refinement of the current of thought one of blood flowing from the hands and other when the formulae of the future resound in wounds. rapture? If, as the author suggests, stigmatism is an Verily a multitude of people pass by these experience and sacrifice which is working off formulae and avoid the painful stigmata future karma, then it has to be perceived as brought on by the striving of spirit. Verily, part of a group experience of disciples. the stigmata present the best proof of Stigmatics make possible the distribution of sensitiveness. Not coarse, striking Christ’s blessing through the energy centers in manifestations, but wings of cosmic the palms of the hands. The Passion of Christ thought, as the lightest touch, fall upon the and the mystical experience have always crown of the head, evoking the striving of remained mysteries to me, but perhaps I am Kundalini. These thoughts may fleetingly now grasping some understanding. leave imponderable traces, but they sharpen Many people experience energy passing the centers, like needles gathering through the palms of the hands. The most electricity. Are not our centers like pine common situations are when hands are joined needles? [§ 502] for saying grace or for some other purpose, and Many years ago, Richard St Barbe Baker, the of course in healing work. In my Triangle “Man of the Trees,” told me that whenever I Meditation I visualize the ajna center in my wanted to recharge my batteries I had only to head as the apex of the triangle. And I stand under a pine tree, hold its trunk, and visualize the other two people as points in the absorb its electrical currents. I understand that palms of my outstretched arms, so that they are the Garden of Shamballa contains the Elgario joined by a golden base line. The experience is (some sort of pine) and the dew drops from it very powerful and there can be almost a contain potent healing properties. burning sensation in my palms when I am really focused. I have been doing this now for Thank you for an evocative article that caused a couple of years. Since reading the article, I me to have these musings. . Occultists need thought I would try using the crown chakra as to read the signs and find their own way the apex of the triangle, which potentially into the Mysteries to become ‘Christed.’ could make for a very fiery air experience. Belinda Baird A passage in Agni Yoga seems to augment Hamilton, New Zealand some of the author’s thinking:

The Esoteric Quarterly

Poems of the Quarter

Three Poems from Irina Kuzminksy

The Pure Are The pure are hard pressed to perceive what is impure For in their observation alchemy is found Transforming objects of perception through their gaze For is it not said that these two - The gaze and what is gazed upon - Are One? What is perceived cannot exist without the organ of perception And just as atoms can’t decide if they are waves (we must decide for them instead) So does the Light which looks through guileless eyes Cleanse and transform what its ray touches.

Alone in the Triangle Alone, the triangle which upwards points Is like a sword unsheathed Which brings destruction on the earth. No waters to contain its burning power Pour gently from the heavens Quenching thirst – This holocaust engendered By the rulership of fire I fear Will take a tidal wave To put it out.

In the Begining In the beginning was the Word But Silence Was Before every Beginning – Therefore, my soul, Be still – and smile into the Silence If you would know The Origin of Light.

Intentional Bliss by Christopher Biekmann www.anceintartizen.com

The Esoteric Quarterly

Quotes of the Quarter

______

he purification of religions predicates a Helena P. Blavatsky, The Secret Doctrine, vol. T new direct relation with the spiritual I, reprint 1974 (Adyar, India: The world. Christ, Buddha and their closest Theosophical Publishing Co., 1888), xx. coworkers did not use magic formulae but acted and created in full blending with the he religions of the world are branches on spirit. Therefore, in the new evolution the T the tree whose trunk is the one ancient— former artificial methods must be abandoned. once universal—wisdom religion. The Remember cause and effect. The mechanics of religions are the tributaries of one great river. yogism are no longer suitable for the (But they borrow from each other to make the regeneration of the world. A teacher who sits actual details much more complex.) under a tree and forbids does not conform to the need. Checklist for Some Principles of Theosophy, Blavatsky Net Foundation, Nicholas Roerich, The Leaves of Morya’s http://www.blavatsky.net/theosophy/- Garden II, Illumination (The Agni Yoga theosophychecklist.htm. Society, Inc., 1952), III: 7.

hen the planets and the stars are not only he great theme of the new world religion W visualized but experienced, moving T will be recognition of the many divine ceaselessly in a magnificent dance of approaches and the continuity of revelation existence, how could it be said that astrology which each of them conveyed. … The deals with external forces or influences? And establishing of a certain uniformity in the as any meditation in which consciousness does world religious rituals, will aid men not move from the individual to the whole of everywhere to strengthen each other's work, which the individual is a functional part can and enhance powerfully the thought currents only lead to a subtle glorification of the status directed to the waiting spiritual Lives. At of individuality, how could the true meditation present, the Christian religion has its great fail to lead to a serene and harmonious ritual of festivals, the Buddhist keeps his different set self-universalization? of spiritual events, and the Hindu has still another list of holy days. In the future world, Meditation may rightfully begin with an when organized, all men of spiritual inclination inward movement of consciousness, and it is and intention everywhere, will keep the same astrology’s true nature to begin with a holy days. This will bring about a pooling of contemplative study of the sky and its spiritual resources, and a united spiritual effort, hieroglyphs of light on the vast parchment of plus a simultaneous spiritual invocation. The night. But in both instances this is only the potency of this will be apparent. beginning. Meditation and astrology can and should meet in their ultimate stance, at which Alice A. Bailey, The Reappearance of the point the individual becomes the whole Christ, reprint 1966 (New York, NY: Lucis (meditation) and the cosmic whole is sensed Trust Publishing, 1948), 150, 154. and perceived as a play performed within the illumined field of a freely focused individual soteric philosophy reconciles all religions, consciousness. E strips every one of its outward human Dane Rudhyar, Astrological Themes for garments and shows the root of each to be Meditation, (Lakemont, Georgia: CSA Press, identical with that of every other great religion. 1972), 7, 8.

hile science itself may be seen to have recently, though it has long had a place in the W an inherent ethic of open-mindedness, it Indic Traditions. seems to find itself groping in the dark when Phillip Clayton, Transforming “the Beyond” faced with issues that are ethical in a relational from Enemy to Alley, (National Institute for sense, in terms of the impact of their discoveries and research. Science is essentially Advanced Studies, Bangalore, India, amoral. The same processes and theories can January, 2003) be used to manufacture cheap electricity and the atomic bomb. It needs ethics at the impact very moment and every event of every stage, when its findings begin to take shape E man’s life on earth plants something in his and affect people's lives. And because science soul. For just as the wind carries thousands of is stumbling upon these ethical issues, winged seeds, so each moment brings with it spirituality must find ways of addressing them. germs of spiritual vitality that come to rest As the Dalai Lama has said, "With the ever imperceptibility in the minds and wills of men. growing impact of science on our lives, Most of these unnumbered seeds perish and are religion and spirituality have a greater role to lost, because men are not prepared to receive play reminding us of our humanity… them; for such seeds as these cannot spring up anywhere except in the good soil of freedom, Swati Chopra, Science and Spirituality: spontaneity and love. Partners in Truth, (Life Positive, January 2006) Thomas Merton, New Seeds of Contemplation (New York, NY: New Directions Publishing o compartmentalized approach to know- Corp., 1972), 14. N ledge can comprehend the limits of science and what lies beyond them. he finest emotion of which we are capable Disciplinary-bound methods cannot describe T is the mystic emotion. Herein lies the disciplinary boundaries. Instead, the task germ of all art and all true science. Anyone to requires a mode of discourse that is both whom this feeling is alien, who is no longer rigorous and at the same time not afraid to cast capable of wonderment and lives in a state of into question hegemonic claims to knowledge fear, is a dead man. To know that what is — be they religious or scientific. Our impenetrable for us really exists and manifests challenge is to find a synthetic vision that itself as the highest wisdom and the most encompasses multiple fields of science as well radiant beauty, whose gross forms alone are as multiple religious traditions. How else could intelligible to our poor faculties - this one address the two main topics of… knowledge, this feeling... that is the core of the cosmology and consciousness? true religious sentiment. In this sense, and in this sense alone, I rank myself among Science and the spiritual quest is inherently profoundly religious men.. self-involving. In this dialogue the scientist cannot leave him or herself aside, as he or she Albert Einstein, as quoted in After Einstein: might when doing normal bench science. New Proceedings of the Einstein Centennial habits of mind are required to explore the Celebration, p. 179. possible connections between science and spirituality, for here the self plays a role as ove is the only force that can make things inner compass which is unfamiliar to most L one without destroying them. Someday practicing scientists. after we have mastered the winds, the waves, Progress in the new dialogue between science the tides and gravity, we shall harness for God and spirituality requires a partnership between the energy of Love. Then for a second time in science and philosophy, for there is no ‘theory’ the history of the world, man will have of science and religion that is not mediated discovered fire. through philosophy. Such a partnership Teilhard de Chardin, as quoted in Seed Sown remained under-developed in the West until Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly, 2012. 11

The Esoteric Quarterly

Monthly Meditations for World Service at the time of the full moon * A website rich in resources for all who share in meditation work for world service during the full moon period * New commentaries each month from Steve Nation, Michelle Pearce, Joann S. Bakula and Malvin Artley Archives from 2004 include papers from Glenys Lowery, Jan Nation, Phillip Lindsay, Jon Darrell-Rew and others. * Hundreds of pages dedicated to meditation at the time of the full moon from a variety of perspectives. www.worldservicegroup.com

The Esoteric Quarterly

Principles of Abundance for the Cosmic Citizen

ENOUGH FOR US ALL

VOLUME ONE

Dorothy I. Riddle

Principles of Abundance is a thoughtful and engaging book that translates the findings of quantum physics and metaphysics into practical tools that we can use to transform ourselves, our communities, and our world view. Lots of practical exercises help us shift from scarcity to abundance, from fear to joy.

The Enough For Us All series reflects the breadth of Dr. Riddle’s awareness and her ability to integrate disparate fields into a meaningful whole with practical strategies for moving forward.

256 pages. $14.95 AuthorHouse, 201. ISBN: 9781449079253 For ordering information, see:

www.EnoughForUsAll.com

Positive Harmlessness in Practice

ENOUGH FOR US ALL

VOLUME TWO

Dorothy I. Riddle

Positive Harmlessness in Practice explores what we mean by “doing no harm” and helps us build our “harmlessness muscle” through exercises and a three-step daily practice. A Harmlessness

Scale™ helps us identify our habitual ways of behaving so that we can shift to automatic patterns of harmlessness.

The Enough For Us All series reflects the breadth of Dr. Riddle’s awareness and her ability to integrate disparate fields into a meaningful whole with practical strategies for moving forward.

288 pages. $15.95 AuthorHouse, 2010. ISBN: 9781452036311 For ordering information, see:

www.EnoughForUsAll.com

Fall 2012

Within-Without from Zero Points:

The Heart Doctrine Mystical Views of the Origin and Nature of Human Consciousness By Christopher P. Holmes

The Heart Doctrine, book one of the Within-Without Series explores the mysteries of human consciousness, the spiritual nature of the heart, and the question of existence of an ‘I’ within the individual—a divine spark, a Monad, a jivatma, a quantum self or a “god spark.”

The Within-Without Zero Point series puts forth an original perspective on consciousness studies and a theoretical model of “intelligent design”—allowing for a novel view of the relationship between science, religion and mysticism.

285 pages. $24.95 Zero Point Publications 2010. ISBN: 978-0-9689435-0-2 For ordering information, see: Available through Amazon.com or www.zeropoint.ca

m God, Science & The Secret Doctrine The Zero Point Metaphysics & Holographic the Space of H. P. Blavatsky

By Christopher P. Holmes

God, Science & The Secret Doctrine explores the cosmogenesis and metaphysics of H. P. Blavatsky and the archaic Stanzas of Dzyan—in light of newest theories in physics and science. Includes material on zero point origins and dynamics, seven dimensional hyperspace, creation physics and holographic theory. “… a lucid and provocative book. It unseals many of the Secret Doctrine mysteries as it weaves the seeming opposites of spirit and science into a new synthesis.” Donna Brown

322 pages. $24.95 Zero Point Publications 2010. ISBN: 978-0-9689435-6-4 Available through Amazon or ordering information, at: www.zeropoint.ca

The Esoteric Quarterly

Zero Point Teachings Selected Writings of Mystical Psychologist & Scientist Christopher P. Holmes

I invite you to consider an alternative view of the nature and structure of reality--to view the world in a magical and mystical way. The basic concept is that all living beings, including you, have a zero point center within connected to the higher dimensional physics of the heart. This is the means by which “the Gods and other invisible powers clothe themselves in bodies”—as explained by mystic scholar Madame Blavatsky in The Secret Doctrine (1888). ZPT includes Christopher’s articles series as published in www.esotericstudies.net.

272 pages. $24.95 Zero Point Publications 2010. ISBN: 978-0-9689435-7-1 Available through Amazon OR: www.zeropoint.ca

The New World Religion: Opportunities and Challenges

John F. Nash

Summary (1948) and The Externalization of the Hierar- chy (1957), which are the principal sources for uring World War II the Tibetan Master this article. D prophesied that a New World Religion will emerge to serve humanity’s needs in the Providing context for his discussion, the Tibet- centuries to come. He provided a broad outline an made an eloquent statement reiterating his of its characteristics, noting the important roles knowledge of spiritual reality and dedication to to be played by the Christ, the Master Jesus, the work of the Christ: other Masters, and their senior disciples. Paral- I would remind you that I write as one who lel prophecies concerning the reappearance of believes in the great spiritual realities and the Christ, the externalization of the Planetary who regards the unfolding spirit of man as Hierarchy, and restoration of the Mysteries the unshatterable evidence of the existence helped fill in details of how the new religion of “the One in Whom we live and move will function. and have our being.” I speak as one who The Tibetan indicated that Christianity would believes in and loves the Christ and who form the primary foundation of the New World knows Him to be the Master of all the Mas- Religion, though many changes would be nec- ters and the Teacher alike of angels and of essary. Over the last sixty years far-reaching men. I am one who looks to Christ as the reforms, leading in that direction, have been supreme expression of divinity upon Earth set in motion by Christians themselves. By and who knows the extent of His sacrificial contrast, most esotericists, who could also work for humanity, the wonder of the reve- make significant contributions, are missing the lation which He brought, the imminence of opportunity to participate. His return and of His coming Assumption of spiritual rule in the hearts of men every- This article reviews the Tibetan’s prophecies where.2 and then explores ways in which esotericists of various Ray types could, and should, become In addition to his prophecies relating to the more involved. It also notes the challenges New World Religion that would serve humani- esotericists, and the New World Religion it- ty’s spiritual needs in the Aquarian Age, the self, can expect to face. ______Introduction About the Author John F. Nash, Ph.D., is a long-time esoteric student, he Tibetan Master Djwhal Khul first men- author, and teacher. Two of his books, Quest for the T tioned the New World Religion in May Soul and The Soul and Its Destiny, were reviewed 1943, in an essay communicated telepathically in the Winter 2005 issue of the Esoteric Quarterly. to his amanuensis Alice Bailey. She shared the Christianity: The One, the Many, was reviewed in essay with the Tibetan’s select group of disci- the Fall 2008 issue. His latest book: The Sacramen- ples and sent copies to hundreds of churches.1 tal Church was published in 2011. For further in- Portions of the essay were later included in formation see the advertisements in this issue and two books: The Reappearance of the Christ the website http://www.uriel.com.

Tibetan Master made other prophecies during lence. Reactionism still pervades large seg- and after World War II concerning Christ’s ments of institutional Christianity. reappearance on Earth, the externalization of On the other hand, Christianity can claim great the Hierarchy of Masters, and restoration of achievements: in scholarship, the arts, the the Mysteries. We understand that a date “for sanctity of innumerable saints and ordinary the first stage of the externalization of the Hi- people, and a record of service unequalled by erarchy will “in all probability . . . be set” at any comparable human institution. Christianity the next General Assembly of the Hierarchy, came into being as a result of the Palestinian scheduled for 2025.3 No dates were set for the mission of the Christ and the Master Jesus and other developments, though the Tibetan im- has expressed much of their vision. It is ex- plied that they would occur within decades pected to have a prominent role in the New rather than centuries. Evidently much depends World Religion—a surprisingly large role, on the establishment of right human relations, considering what other world religions might and nobody can be satisfied with our efforts; also have to offer. some of the prophesied developments may well have been delayed. Nevertheless, evi- Elsewhere, the present author has discussed the dence presented in this article suggests that reforms needed to bridge the gap between significant progress is being made in preparing Christianity, as we have come to know it, and for the new religion. the Tibetan’s vision of the New World Reli- gion.4 Progress is being made on many fronts The prophecies concerning the New World to close that gap. Religion have received less attention than the others. Many esotericists seem to have adopted Denominations and groups within denomina- a cautious attitude; content to await reforms tions have already taken major steps toward within existing religions—or to await Hierar- needed reform and are working to build an in- chical action—without getting involved them- clusive, responsive, relevant religion for the selves. From time to time they join secularists 21st century. This is true even of large Chris- in criticizing organized religion, especially tian denominations, including the “sacramental major Christian denominations. “Dogma and churches,” which in combination may have the doctrine,” “empty ritual,” pomp, materialism, greatest potential to serve as the foundation for reaction to social change, exclusivism, repres- the New World Religion. “Sacramental,” sion of women, and support of unjust wars are “evangelical” and “liberal” are three broad cat- staples of anti-Christian rhetoric. Esotericists egories for classifying denominations.5 While are fond of saying that organized religion has the boundaries are not sharp, the Eastern Or- become a “crystallized form,” no longer able thodox, Roman Catholic, and Anglican to adapt to new conditions and inadequate to churches fit comfortably in the sacramental support its indwelling life. A popular opinion category. Their central act of worship is the is that religion is in its death throes, fast de- Eucharist, and their mission is built upon the clining into obscurity as a fossil of the Piscean sacraments as well as on the personal devotion, Age. Compounding these attitudes is the belief preaching and outreach found in all denomina- that religion is for “aspirants” and that those on tions. the path of discipleship have no further use for Progress has been made without any signifi- it. cant contribution by esotericists. The Tibetan Negative attitudes probably have multiple declared that religion, as it currently exists, “is causes, ranging from unfortunate personal ex- intended to serve the masses and is not intend- periences to awareness of Christianity’s failed to be of use (except as a field of service) to ings. The churches bear terrible collective the esotericists of the world.”6 Certainly Chris- karma. Countless people have been harmed by tianity developed into a mass religion, not one ignorant clergy and misguided teachings. Mil- for a small elite, and esotericists have never lions have suffered and died in religious vio- formed a substantial fraction of the total mem-

18 Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly, 2012. Fall 2012 bership. But we should not ignore the great works through it and by its means seeks to mystics who have graced Christianity, or oc- contact the vast Christian public. It . . . can cultists like Albertus Magnus, Heinrich Agrip- touch the great masses of seeking souls.”9 pa, Emmanuel Swedenborg, Anna Kingsford, The Tibetan also shared a larger vision, identi- and Annie Besant. In any event, two billion fying “the true Church of Christ” with the people identify themselves as Christian, mak- Planetary Hierarchy.10 We note that the Christ, ing it a rich field for service. the World Teacher, is head of the vast Second- Working to establish the New World Religion Ray ashram, or “department,” of “Religion,” would seem to be a worthy field of endeavor, “Beliefs” and “Faiths.”11 His responsibilities offering unique opportunities for service and include religious affairs throughout the world. likely bringing great personal and collective We can assume that he is heavily involved in rewards. Sadly, the great majority of esoteri- preparations for the New World Religion now cists are missing those opportunities. The sit- and will remain so after it is established. uation must change, or as a group we shall be Importantly, the Tibetan spoke of a new reli- left on the sidelines. The present article exam- gion, not a new world spirituality—though we ines ways in which esotericists can play mean- shall see that spirituality will be an important ingful roles in the transformation of Christiani- element. Religion implies some kind of shared ty and further roles that will open up as the or institutional activity. “True religion,” he new religion takes definite shape. It also exam- affirmed, ines the challenges esotericists may face in getting involved. First we need to examine the is again emerging in the hearts of men in Tibetan’s prophecies concerning the New every land; this recognition of a divine World Religion. hope and background may possibly take people back into the churches and world New World Religion faiths, but it will most certainly take them n a statement of far-reaching significance back to God. Religion is the name, surely, the Master Djwhal Khul declared: “The which we give to the invocative appeal of I humanity which leads to the evocative re- three main channels through which the prepa- 12 ration for the new age is going on might be sponse of the Spirit of God. regarded as the Church, the Masonic Fraternity The world’s religions that have come down to 7 and the educational field.” He went on to ex- us through history were human creations, and plain that they express, respectively, the Se- they often failed. Yet the Tibetan insisted that cond Ray of Love-Wisdom, the First Ray of they achieved certain basic goals: “Step by Will and Power, and the Third Ray of Active step man has been led through prayer, the Intelligence. The Tibetan explained that the voice of desire, through worship, the recogni- church tion of deity, through affirmation of the fact of human identity of nature with the divine, to a is constituted of the sum total of all those in 13 whom the life of Christ or the Christ- belief in the divinity of man.” One would consciousness is to be found or is in process expect that a new religion targeted at the whole of finding expression; it is the aggregation of humanity would draw upon the best tradi- of all who love their fellowmen, because to tions of all existing world religions. But that love one’s fellowmen is the divine faculty may not be the case. The Tibetan occasionally which makes us full members of Christ’s mentioned Buddhism, but the greater part of community.8 his discourses focused on Christianity. Refer- ences to “the church” added further emphasis. The Christ works through his church, serving the masses of people, particularly those on the The important question was how much of Pis- Second Ray: “The Church . . . hides in its heart cean-Age Christianity had to go and how much those who vibrate to the great love ray, the Se- would be preserved. Impeding the establish- cond Ray of Love - Wisdom. Christ Himself ment of the New World Religion were narrow,

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 19 The Esoteric Quarterly sectarian attitudes and behavior, or what the surely disappear; the fundamentals of faith Tibetan called “churchianity.”14 The term ap- will remain, upon which He can build that pears ten times in Alice Bailey’s books, though New World Religion for which all men it tends to be avoided today because of its pe- wait. That New World Religion must be jorative quality. “The mass of thinking peo- based upon those truths which have stood ple,” the Tibetan wrote in the 1940s, are aware the test of ages and which have brought as- of the problem; “unfortunately, these thinking surance and comfort to men everywhere.19 people are still a small minority. Nevertheless, it is this thinking minority which (when it is a Theological Principles majority and it is today a rapidly growing one) The nature of the transformation that Christi- will . . . endorse the spread of the true teaching anity will undergo can be glimpsed from the of the Christ.”15 Whether “thinking people” following: now comprise a majority in the churches is [S]pirituality will supersede theology; liv- debatable, but certainly their numbers have ing experience will take the place of theo- increased. logical acceptances. The spiritual realities The political power of institutional Christianity will emerge with increasing clarity and the was a further impediment. Perhaps because he form aspect will recede into the back- did not foresee the rise of evangelical funda- ground; dynamic, expressive truth will be mentalism, the Tibetan seemed satisfied on the keynote of the New World Religion. that issue and looked forward to expression of The living Christ will assume His rightful the true essence of Christianity: place in human consciousness and see the fruition of His plans, sacrifice and service, The rule of the churches is over, but not the but the hold of the ecclesiastical orders will precepts of Christianity or the example of the Christ. He is, however, responsible for a weaken and disappear. Only those will remain as guides and leaders of the human newer and more effective presentation of spirit who speak from living experience, the coming world religion, and for that the and who know no creedal barriers; they will churches should prepare, if they have recognize the onward march of revelation enough illumination to recognize their need 20 and His effort to meet that need.16 and the new emerging truths. The Tibetan Master added that “these truths Elsewhere than in fundamentalist churches, will be founded on the ancient realities but will Christianity is already recognizing the need be adapted to modern need and will manifest and responding to the Christ’s effort. Evidence progressively the revelation of the divine na- for this will be examined later in this article. 21 Meanwhile, we are encouraged to know that ture and quality.” He was critical of sectarian doctrine. “It is impossible to believe,” he de- the “veil that hides [the] real church from us is clared, that Christ and His disciples “are inter- now in process of disappearing and Christ is 17 ested in the views of the Fundamentalists or in on the verge of reappearing.” the theories of the theologians upon the Virgin The Tibetan emphasized that Christianity was Birth, the Vicarious Atonement or the Infalli- essentially good, but its potential has not yet bility of the Pope.”22 been realized: “Christianity,” he wrote, “is an The Tibetan hesitated to use the words like expression—in essence, if not yet entirely fac- “doctrine” and “theology” in connection with tual—of the love of God, immanent in His cre- 18 the New World Religion, but he spoke of three ated universe.” Much will be preserved to “major presentations of truth”: form a basis for the new religion: 1. The fact of the Spirit of God, both trans- The Christ and the spiritual Hierarchy will not come to destroy all that humanity has cendent and immanent, will be demonstrat- hitherto found “necessary to salvation,” and ed, and also a similar fact in relation to man. The mode of their approach to each all that has met its spiritual demand. When other, via the soul, will be indicated. This the Christ reappears, the non-essentials will

aspect of the emerging truth might be called where.”26 The Tibetan lamented that “the spir- Transcendental Mysticism. itual unity of all men everywhere” is hindered because of “clerical organizations and their 2. The fact of the divine quality of the militant attitude to religions and to faiths other Forces in nature and in man and the method than their own.”27 Fortunately such attitudes of their utilization for divine purposes by are less strong now than they were at the time man. This might be called Transcendental he was writing. Occultism. Certain things to which Christianity has always 3. The fact, implied in the first, that Hu- attached special significance will take center- manity, as a Whole, is an expression of di- stage in the New World Religion. Among them vinity, a complete expression, plus the al- are events in the life of the historical Christ: lied fact of the divine nature and work of the planetary Hierarchy, and the mode of [U]pon the revelation of the risen Christ the Approach of these two groups, in group must the new world religion take its stand. form, to each other. This might be called Christ upon the Cross, as will appear when Transcendental Religion.23 we study the next great crisis, showed us love and sacrifice carried to their extreme The repeated use of the word “transcendental” expression; but Christ alive from all time, deserves special attention. The Tibetan seemed and vitally alive today, is the keynote of the intent on distinguishing the three major presen- new age, and upon this truth must the new tations from mysticism, occultism and religion presentation of religion be built and, later, as understood in the past. The distinction may the new theology be constructed. The true be relatively minor in the first instance; mysti- meaning of the Resurrection and the Ascen- cism of a high order can be found in all world sion has not yet been grasped; as a divine religions and is being embraced increasingly subjective reality those truths still await by the masses.24 The history of occultism and revelation. The glory of the new age will be organized religion, on the other hand, provides the unveiling of those two mysteries, and many examples of the need for increased em- our entrance into a fuller understanding of phasis on the transcendental. 28 God as life. The three presentations of truth were expanded It should be noted that devotion to the cross to four, and finally to six, “truths which have and the suffering Christ is primarily a feature stood the test of the ages”: of western Christianity. The Eastern Orthodox 1. The Fact of God churches place more emphasis on his transfig- 2. Man's Relationship to God uration, resurrection and ascension: on Christ 3. The Fact of Immortality and Eternal Per- as the expression of divine glory. In the future sistence the emphasis on life will become universal: 4. The Continuity of Revelation and the Di- Life and not death will be proclaimed; at- vine Approaches… tainment of spiritual status through spiritual 5. The fact of our relationship with each living will be taught, and the fact of the ex- other . . . istence of those who have thus attained and 6. The fact of the Path to God.25 who work with Christ for the helping and salvaging of humanity will be the goal. The These truths, the Tibetan explained, are uni- fact of the spiritual Hierarchy of our planet, versal and find resonance inside and outside the ability of mankind to contact its Mem- Christianity. In his words: “[T]he study of bers and to work in cooperation with Them, Comparative Religion has demonstrated that and the existence of Those Who know what the foundational truths in every faith are iden- the will of God is and can work intelligent- tical. Because of this universality, they evoke ly with that will—these are the truths upon recognition and response from all men every which the future spiritual teaching will be based.29

Christianity has a commendable teaching rec- Christ. But what the Tibetan meant when he ord, though its focus needs to change: implied that “the trinity of manifestation” is an “old concept,” or how its destruction could The church as a teaching factor should take promote transfer of attention from the Second the great basic doctrines and (shattering the to the First Aspect of Deity, is unclear. His old forms in which they are expressed and teachings are replete with references to the held) show their true and inner spiritual triune nature of the Logos. significance. The prime work of the church is to teach, and teach ceaselessly, preserv- The Tibetan’s discomfort with “theology” pre- ing the outer appearance in order to reach sumably derived from its associations with the many who are accustomed to church dogma. Yet much of what he discussed could usages. Teachers must be trained; Bible be classified as theology, understood as the knowledge must be spread.30 study of the Divine and our relationship with it. Whether spirituality will actually supersede The importance of Bible study also emerges theology is debatable. We are thinking beings, from the following comment: “[The Christ] unlikely to stop constructing intellectual mod- has told us (and the New Testament in many els of higher reality. Not insignificantly, the places emphasizes it) that we also are divine, domains of theology and esoteric philosophy all of us are the Sons of God and that . . . we overlap to a considerable extent. are able to do still greater things than Christ did.” 31 These comments may hint at evangeli- Liturgy, Ritual and Invocation cal Christianity’s role in the formation of the 32 Like the religions of the past the New World new religion. Religion will have its liturgical calendar. The Of the utmost significance, emphasis will shift Tibetan noted that many “church festivals are gradually to the First-Aspect of Deity, Will fixed by reference to the moon or a zodiacal and Purpose: “God is now known as Intelli- constellation. Investigation will prove this to gence and Love. That the past has given us. He be increasingly the case, and when the ritual of must be known as Will and Purpose, and that the New World Religion is universally estab- the future will reveal.”33 In more detail: lished this will be one of the important factors 35 We are—if it could be but realized—in considered.” The major events on the calen- process of re-interpreting and re-arranging dar will be the full-moon festivals. The Tibetan what can be called “the doctrinal structure predicted that through those festivals man will underlying the relation between knowledge grasp not only his relation to the spiritual and wisdom.” This involves the destruction Life of our planet, the “One in Whom we of old concepts such as the trinity of mani- live and move and have our being,” but will festation, and the assembly of those new also [catch] a glimpse of the relation of our and more correct ideas which must inevita- planet to the circle of planetary lives mov- bly be substituted for the old, as the un- ing within the orbit of the Sun, and the still foldment of the first aspect is presented to greater circle of spiritual Influences which the initiate upon the Path. This, through contact our solar system as it pursues its or- certain later activities, will gradually seep bit in the Heavens (the twelve constella- downwards into the consciousness of hu- tions of the zodiac).36 manity, and the New World Religion will Easter, the Wesak Festival, and the Festival of be founded upon a deeper spiritual percep- Goodwill, corresponding, respectively, to the tion of the Father or Life Aspect, in place of full moons in Aries, Taurus and Gemini, are the rapidly crystallizing vision of the Son or 34 already in place and are expected to be major consciousness aspect. events of the new liturgical year. They deline- Certainly the “Jesus Christ” of traditional ate the season known as the Higher Interlude. Christianity has become a crystallized vision, It and the Lower Interlude, which spans the in need of new light on the distinctions be- rest of the year, are explained thus: “In the tween the Master Jesus and the overshadowing higher interlude, abstract or divine thought

22 Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly, 2012. Fall 2012 impresses the soul and is transmitted to the sion, for each one linked to Him becomes, waiting mind; in the other [the Lower Inter- in a vital sense, a cell in His Body.44 lude], the mind, through concrete thought and In what way the Body of the Christ could be an attempt to embody divine thought in form, “one of the seven Heavenly Men”—a term impresses the brain and produces action normally reserved for the Planetary Logoi—is through the medium of the physical body.”37 unclear. However, the Tibetan did offer this The full-moon festivals of the Lower Interlude assurance: “Via this strand passes the power to will also be important: “Each of the months of strengthen, to stimulate, to vivify and to bless, the year will . . . be dedicated (through accu- and this is the true apostolic succession. All rate astrological and astronomical knowledge) true disciples are priests unto the Lord.”45 to whichever constellation in the heavens gov- The sacraments of the New World Religion erns a particular month.”38 For example, Au- will include the Eucharist in a generalized gust is ruled by Leo, and in turn by the fixed sense: star Sirius: [M]en everywhere [will] sit down together Sirius is the home of that greater Lodge to in the Presence of the Christ and share the which our fifth initiation admits a man and bread and wine (symbols of nourishment). to which it brings him, as a humble disci- Preparations for that shared feast (symboli- ple. Later, when the new world religion is cally speaking) are on their way, and those founded and is working, we shall find that preparations are being made by the masses the major, monthly festival in August, held of men themselves, as they fight and strug- at the time of the full moon, will be dedi- gle and legislate for the economic suste- cated to the task of making contact, via the nance of their nations, and as the theme of Hierarchy, with Sirian force.39 food occupies the attention of legislators The World Servers Festival is observed every everywhere. This sharing, beginning on the seven years in December when “the energies physical plane, will prove equally true of all of Capricorn [are] augmented by the pouring in human relations and this will be the great of forces from a still greater constellation gift of the Aquarian Age to humanity.46 which is—to our zodiac—what the zodiac is to We might note that other expressions of the the earth.”40 trans-Himalayan teachings give considerable The New World Religion will have “its new emphasis to the Eucharist in its more tradition- rituals and ceremonies.”41 The sacraments, the al sense. For example, the Eucharist became Tibetan explained, “must be mystically inter- the central act of worship in the Liberal Catho- preted, and the power of the church to heal lic Church, founded by Theosophists in an at- must be demonstrated.”42 “Properly under- tempt to revitalize age-old religious ritual by stood,” the sacraments will “serve to strength- the infusion of esoteric teachings.47 It was, of en [the] link and realization” of karmic con- course, already the central act of worship in nections with Christ and the Master Jesus, Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and An- “and such a one as that of Baptism (when en- glican churches. These three sacramental tered upon with understanding) will draw forth churches may be able to play a special role in oft a response from the Great Lord Himself.”43 the New World Religion because of the care The Tibetan then offered a most enigmatic with which they preserved sacramental ritual suggestion: throughout the ages. As noted, the Tibetans’ insistence that “Bible knowledge must be It is almost as if a golden strand were di- spread” also suggests a continuing role for rected from His heart to the heart of the evangelical Christianity. servant. . . . Eventually these many strands will become reabsorbed into their source The Tibetan reassured us that “prayer, worship when the Body of the Christ—one of the and affirmation” will be preserved. But to seven Heavenly Men on the second or mo- them will be added “the new religion of Invo- nadic plane—is completed in full expres- cation and Evocation . . . in which man will

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 23 The Esoteric Quarterly begin to use his divine power and come into world, but the invocation which will evoke closer touch with the spiritual sources of all contact with the spiritual Lives and the di- life.48 That comment may provide clues to the vine embodied Energies as well as with the meaning of “Transcendental Occultism.” Hierarchy (which is Their intermediary) in order to bring about the manifestation on The Great Invocation will play an important earth of the soul of humanity and the quali- role: “This new Invocation, if given wide- ties of the subjective and inner divine life spread distribution, can be to the new world which all outer forms veil. This is now for religion what the Lord's Prayer has been to the first time possible in the life of the Christianity and the Twenty-Third Psalm has planet.51 been to the spiritually minded Jew.”49 Many of us, whether or not we personally identify with Restoration of the Mysteries Christianity or Judaism, would hope that the Closely related with establishment of the New Lord’s Prayer, the Twenty-Third Psalm, and World religion will be the restoration of the other revered prayers and scriptural passages Mysteries: “When the Great One comes with can be preserved in the liturgy of the new reli- His disciples and initiates we shall have (after gion and used alongside the Great Invocation. a period of intensive work on the physical The Tibetan explained that the “new invoca- plane beginning around the year 1940) the res- tive work will be the keynote of the coming toration of the Mysteries.”52 One wonders how world religion invocation.” Two groups of long a “period of intensive work on the physi- people will participate: cal plane” will be needed—presumably more There will be the invocative work of the than the seven decades that have elapsed since masses of the people, trained by the spiritu- that time. ally minded people of the world (working The ancient mystery tradition included both in the churches, whenever possible, under the Lesser and Greater Mysteries, the former an enlightened clergy) to accept the fact of performed more or less openly, the latter the approaching spiritual energies, focused veiled in secrecy. The Christian sacraments are through the spiritual Hierarchy, and to often cited as the successors of the Lesser voice their spiritual demand for light, liber- Mysteries, while the rites of Freemasonry pre- ation and understanding. There will also be serve some sense of the Greater Mysteries. In the trained, scientific work of appeal and the future the Greater Mysteries will be the invocation as practiced by those who have initiations recognized by the Planetary Hierar- trained their minds through right medita- chy. Eventually, the restored Mysteries may tion, who know the uses of sound, of for- form a continuum in which individuals can mulas and of invocation, and who can work progress from the path of aspiration to the path consciously, focusing the invocative cry of of initiation. the masses and at the same time using cer- The first initiation, “the Birth of the Christ in tain great formulas of words which will lat- the cave of the Heart,” will become “the basic er be given to the race, as The Lord's Prayer 53 was given by the Christ and The Great In- ceremony in the new world religion.” The Tibetan emphasized: “It will not, in the future, vocation has been given in this day and 50 be the experience of the occasional disciple but age. the general experience of countless thousands Humanity’s participation in this work of spir- towards the close of the Aquarian Age.” itual invocation will be a unique opportunity, Moreover: and its purpose far-reaching: The purifying waters of the Baptism Initia- This is not magical invocation, as man un- tion (the second initiation) will submerge derstands it, and which is concerned with hundreds of aspirants in many lands, and the invocation and control of the substantial these two initiations (which are preparatory and elemental forces of the manifested to true service, and the third initiation of the

Transfiguration) will set the seal on Christ's sent visibly on Earth and the Mysteries of mission as the Agent of the great spiritual which the disciples of the Christ are the Custo- Triangle which He represents.54 dians are given openly to the world, will the true secret and nature of electrical phenomena The great triangle will be formed by the Bud- be revealed.”62 dha, the Spirit of Peace, and the Avatar of Syn- thesis who will “stand in power behind” the Progress to Date Christ when he reappears.55 he Tibetan Master expressed optimism We understand that the Mysteries will form that the New World Religion was an idea 56 T “the basis of the new world religion,” and it whose time (in the 1940s) had come: “Today, is worth noting that the slowly, the concept of a sacraments were al- The Tibetan indicated that world religion and the ways referred to as need for its emergence “the mysteries” in the Christianity would form the are widely desired and Eastern Orthodox primary foundation of the worked for.”63 “Definite churches. The Myster- New World Religion, though outlines” of the new re- ies, in the more specif- ligion, he wrote, “will ic sense, “will be re- many changes would be nec- appear towards the close stored to outer expres- essary. Over the last sixty of [the 20th] century.”64 sion through the medi- years far-reaching reforms, By now those definite um of the Church and outlines should be evi- the Masonic Fraternity, leading in that direction, have dent. More specifically if those groups leave been set in motion by Chris- the process of Christian- off being organizations tians themselves. By contrast, ity’s transformation with material purpose, should already have be- and become organisms most esotericists, who could gun. But has it? We with living objec- 57 also make significant contri- might easily say “no”— tives. Reminding us and console ourselves that the Christ “is the butions, are missing the op- that the timing of proph- Hierophant of the first portunity to participate. ecies is notoriously in- and second initiations,” accurate and that, for the Tibetan explained that “if the preparatory any of several reasons, establishment of the work is faithfully and well done,” the Christ new religion has been delayed. “will administer the first initiation in the inner sanctuaries of those two bodies.58 We are not In fact the answer should be an emphatic told why there will be that duplication of ef- “yes.” Major, positive changes have taken fort. Nevertheless, use of churches and Mason- place in the churches since 1949, when the ic temples may bring us closer to fulfilling the Tibetan’s cycle of writings came to an end. age-old dream of a convergence of religious The political power of institutional Christianity and Masonic ritual.59 continues to wane—though evangelical fundamentalism has gained unexpectedly strong While we are assured that the Mysteries “will 60 influence in the United States. Mutual respect unify all faiths,” the Tibetan never explained among denominations is at an all-time high. whether, or to what extent, the ritual traditions The Second Vatican Council (196265) was a of other world religions will be included. But turning point in that respect, for other Chris- in a statement that may raise many eyebrows, tians as well as for Roman Catholics. the Tibetan declared: “The true Mysteries will also reveal themselves through science and the The charismatic revival, also in the 1960s, incentive to search for them there will be given brought about the widespread restoration of by the Christ.”61 He went on to explain that the healing ministries in western Christianity after mysteries “will unlock the mystery of electrici- a millennium of neglect—though it is worth ty,” adding: “Only when the Hierarchy is pre- noting that sacramental healing was never

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 25 The Esoteric Quarterly abandoned in the Eastern Orthodox churches.65 Many initiatives have been taken by Roman Denominations across the religious spectrum Catholic laypeople, members of religious or- are engaged in large-scale service activities as ders, and even a few bishops. Small communi- well as missionary efforts. ties have emerged within, or in some cases outside, the traditional parish structure. One Many Christians in the West are suspicious of survey identified 37,000 such groups in the notions that doctrinal formulations can be ade- continental United States, with a membership quate for all time. In medieval times the insti- approaching one million.67 It found that mem- tutional church was the sole center of learning, bers were committed to traditional religious and an illiterate laity may have been content to observance but were willing to follow individ- be told what to believe.66 Today educated lay- ual conscience rather than papal edicts.68 The people honor their own insights and spiritual church’s ban on contraception is ignored by experiences. Moreover, they view truth as con- the overwhelming majority of couples. One tinually evolving and unfolding. Personal in- religious commentator felt confident in an- sight is gaining recognition as a legitimate nouncing: “American Roman Catholics . . . source of new revelation. The Anglican have the most liberal social beliefs of any de- churches recognize the Apostles’ and Nicene nomination.”69 Most recently nuns—distancing Creeds but have always emphasized collective themselves from the reactionism of Rome— worship, or “common prayer,” over doctrinal have emerged as a potent collective voice for conformity. The Eastern Orthodox churches social justice. regard the decrees of the ecumenical councils as infallible, but they also have a strong tradi- Anglicanism has offered an active social min- tion of mystical theology that incorporates new istry since the mid-19th century, and its Chris- revelation. tian Social Union predates Liberation Theolo- gy.70 The Episcopal Church has adopted a The Roman Catholic Church continues to broad range of progressive policies and is now claim the authority to formulate infallible, un- the most socially liberal of the large denomina- changeable dogma. The papacy also maintains tions in the United States. The Evangelical Lu- a tight disciplinary grip on its flock. Since Vat- theran Church of America, Presbyterian ican II the church has returned to a fundamen- Church U.S.A., United Methodist Church, and talist stance on social and ecumenical issues, United Church of Christ have similarly com- and a key factor in the selection of bishops is mendable records of leadership on social is- loyalty to the party line. The Church of Rome sues, and the same can be said of many de- clings to regressive policies on clerical celiba- nominations worldwide. cy, the ordination of women, marriage equali- ty, and contraception. It refuses to recognize The Tibetan did not mention the ordination of the validity of ordinations in the Anglican women as one of the features of the New Communion, even though the latter has an World Religion, but modern society recognizes episcopal lineage extending back as far as the artificiality of gender-based restrictions and Rome’s. the outstanding service that women clergy can provide. In 1853 Congregationalist Antoinette On the other hand, much progress has been Brown became the first woman minister in the made in Roman Catholicism, below the highest United States, though she was dismissed the echelons of power. Liberation Theology ac- following year. Olympia Brown was ordained quired prominence after Vatican II, focusing a Universalist minister in 1863. Eighty years on the suffering of the poor, their struggles, later the Anglican Communion ordained Flor- and their perspectives on society and Christi- ence Li Tim Oi of Hong Kong “on an emer- anity. Jesus was portrayed as a social reformer, gency basis.” The Episcopal Church in the even a revolutionary. Liberation Theology United States Church voted to admit women to gained wide support from the laity and pastoral the episcopate in 1976, and its current presid- clergy in South and Central America, before ing bishop is female.71 The United Methodist declining in the face of opposition from Rome.

Church has appointed female bishops since “partial communion” has been established, 1980, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in permitting the exchange of clergy and partici- Germany since 1992, and the Czech Hussite pation in one another’s worship services. Church since 1999. The Unitarian Universalist In some ways Eastern Orthodoxy is the most Association now has a majority of female cler- conservative branch of Christianity. Yet Rus- gy. The Society of Friends (Quakers) and the sian Orthodox theologians have created the Salvation Army do not recognize formal ordi- vision of a universal church that embraces the nation but have always affirmed sexual equali- whole of humanity. Theologian and scientist ty in leadership positions. Pavel Florensky (1882–1937) contrasted the Neither did the Tibetan mention the ordination mystical church, “the unifying, preexistent, of gay and lesbian people; indeed he expressed heavenly, mystical form,” with the “historical strong views about homosexuality.72 But again church” with its record of successes and fail- societal attitudes have changed. The United ures. The mystical church could be regarded as Church of Christ permitted the ordination of the archetype, and the historical church as its gay ministers in the 1970s, and in 2005 it for- imperfect realization. Or we could regard the mally endorsed the blessing of same-sex cou- mystical church as the thoughtform Christ cre- ples. The Church of Sweden agreed to wel- ated during his Palestinian mission, and the come partnered gay clergy in 2006. The Epis- historical church as humanity’s response to it. copal Church has consecrated two openly gay Florensky recognized that the historical church bishops and recently created liturgies for same- could come closer to its archetype if sectarian sex unions. Sadly, some other denominations divisions were healed. He urged the disparate adamantly refuse to admit openly gay peo- denominations to come together to be “deified ple—or even women—to the ministry. They and eternalized in the unifying form.”74 are on the wrong side of history and seem des- Orthodox priest Sergei Bulgakov (1871–1944) tined for irrelevance if they do not change. expanded on the notion of a universal church, The fragmentation of western Christianity has linking it to the Divine Feminine Sophia.75 His not been reversed, but denominations are near-contemporary, Russian poet and visionary reaching out to one another with unprecedent- Daniel Andreev (1906–1959) averred that the ed ecumenical warmth. Much work has been world's religions “will be transformed from a done to improve mutual respect, understanding collage of separate petals into one single, and cooperation. The World Council of whole spiritual flower the Rose of the Churches, founded in 1948, now has nearly World.”76 350 member churches. United Religions Initia- The Tibetan Master made a comment of the tive was formed to build bridges between greatest significance about Russia: Christian and other world religions. Out of Russia—a symbol of the world Ar- High-level, bilateral discussions seeking mutu- juna in a very special sense—will emerge al understanding on theological positions have that new and magical religion about which I taken place among the Eastern Orthodox, Ro- have so often told you. It will be the prod- man Catholic, Lutheran, Anglican, Methodist, uct of the great and imminent Approach and other churches. Considerable progress has which will take place between humanity been made. For example, the Roman Catholic and the Hierarchy. From these two centers Church and the Lutheran World Federation of spiritual force, in which the light which- issued a joint declaration resolving the long- ever shineth in and from the East will irra- divisive dispute over “justification by faith.” diate the West, the whole world will be Anglican and Eastern Orthodox Church leaders flooded with the radiance of the Sun of declared that Mary, the mother of Jesus, “holds Righteousness. I am . . . referring to the ap- the pre-eminent place within the communion pearance of a great and spiritual religion of saints and embodies the destiny of the which . . . will demonstrate itself and be fo- Church.”73 In a few cases denominations have cused in a great and spiritual Light which agreed to merge; in many more cases “full” or

will be held aloft by a vital Russian expo- ing seen as unacceptable ways to settle dis- nent of true religion—that man for whom putes. Social justice has become a mass con- many Russians have been looking and who cern, as evidenced by the success of the Occu- will be the justification of a most ancient py movement. People are more accepting of prophecy.77 diversity and are reaching out to others across family, class, ethnic and national lines as never Anglicans have long recognized the power of before. Sensitivity is also increasing toward the Russian Orthodox mystical theology, and ef- icons and values of other religions. Again, no- forts to create a synthesis of mystical theology body would claim that the great evil of sepa- and modern esoteric teachings could be espe- rateness has been banished, but substantial cially productive. But it would seem that the progress has been made. “Russian exponent” has yet to come forward. Nobody would claim that Christianity’s trans- Implementing the New World formation is nearing completion or that univer- Religion sal harmony has been attained across sectarian lines. Separatism remains in every denomina- Role of the Planetary Hierarchy tion, some more so than others, but real pro- he Christ, as noted, heads the Second-Ray gress has been made. Where much more work T ashram whose responsibilities include re- is needed is in increasing tolerance and under- ligion, beliefs and faiths. Contributing to its standing among Christianity, Islam, Judaism, work are a number of supporting ashrams on and other world religions. the same ray, headed by the Masters Koot In addition to the changes to institutional Hoomi, Djwhal Khul, and others. Christianity, important changes are taking Djwhal Khul reminded us that Christ, notwith- place in society. The nadir of materialism and standing his alleged ascension into heaven, rationalism is past, and increasing numbers of “has never left us but . . . has worked for two people today identify themselves as “spiritual,” thousand years through the medium of His dis- even if they do not belong to a church organi- ciples, the inspired men and women of all zation. People of all walks of life feel an im- faiths, all religions and all religious persua- pulse to respond to higher reality and to ex- sions.”79 In contrast to the “silent, passive Fig- press that impulse in ritual, prayer and service. ure, hidden behind a multitude of words writ- They may include the “intellectual mystics” ten by a multitude of . . . commentators and mentioned later. preachers,” the Christ is “the living, working, The new-age movement was a passing fad, but active, present Christ Who has been with us in bodily Presence (according to His promise) for it left in its wake greater awareness of the un- 80 seen worlds, belief in the cycle of rebirth, and twenty centuries.” a wide range of meditation practices.78 Today Moreover, the Christ is to be thought of not as people find inspirational support in small “the feeble Christ which historical Christianity groups, in workshops, and on the Internet. Eso- has endorsed” but as “a strong and able execu- teric schools and their journals, like The Bea- tive.”81 He applied that competence in the past con and The Esoteric Quarterly, serve the and continues to do so, revealing truth and in- needs of serious students. Networks of people stilling hope: are springing up, offering the sense of spiritual community once provided by church member- We need to awaken faith in the factual na- ship. The “Earth religions” are thriving, and ture of divine revelation, and galvanize the feminist theology is providing new insights church of Christ into a truer appreciation of into the concept of Deity and our relationship Him and of His work. It is the living, act- to it. ing, thinking Christ with whom we must deal, remembering always that the Gospel Sensitivity is increasing toward the rights and story is eternally true and only needs re- needs of marginalized people, the animal king- interpreting in the light of its place in the dom, and the planet. Violence and war are belong succession of divine revelations. His

Mission on earth two thousand years ago is The Master Jesus is well aware of Christianity a part of that continuity and is not an ex- in its western environment: “No one so wisely traordinary story, having no relation to the knows as He the problems of the West, no one past, emphasizing a period of only 33 years is so closely in touch with the people who and presenting no clear hope for the fu- stand for all that is best in Christian teachings, ture.82 and no one is so well aware of the need of the present moment.” 86 The Christ “presides over the destiny of the great religions through the medium of a group Jesus and the Buddha will both play key roles of Masters and initiates Who direct the activi- in establishing the New World Religion: ties of these different schools of thought.”83 [T]he Master Jesus will take certain initial The Master Jesus has direct responsibility for steps towards reassuming control of His Christianity: Church; the Buddha will send two trained The Master Jesus, the inspirer and director disciples to reform Buddhism; other steps of the Christian churches everywhere, will also be taken in this department of reli- though an adept on the Sixth Ray under the gions and of education, over which the department of the Mahachohan, works at Christ rules, and He will move to restore present under the Christ for the welfare of the ancient spiritual landmarks, to eliminate Christianity; other Masters hold similar that which is nonessential, and to reorgan- ize the entire religious field.87 posts in relation to the great oriental faiths, and the various occidental schools of We also read: “The Master Jesus will take a thought.84 physical vehicle, and with certain of His chelas effect a re-spiritualization of the Catholic “Temporary reassignments,” if we may use churches, breaking down the barrier separating such a term, among ashrams might not be unu- the Episcopal and Greek churches from the sual if, as in this instance, they share common- Roman.”88 Jesus’ involvement in, and future ality of purpose. Religion is inspired by the plans for, these denominations would seem to Second and Sixth Rays. It is also inspired by refute suggestions that Christianity has run its the Seventh Ray, as it pertains to religious cer- course and will soon pass out of existence as a emony, and the Fourth Ray, to sacred art. relic of the Piscean Age. We understand that the care of Christianity has Other Masters will perform parallel work: long been Jesus’ primary mission. Like the “The Master Hilarion will also come forth, and Christ, he has notable organizational ability. become a focal point of buddhic energy in the And he has assistance not only from disciples vast spiritualistic movement, whilst another working under him but also from the deva evo- Master is working with the Christian Science lution: endeavor in an effort to swing it on to sounder The Master Jesus works especially with the lines.”89 Hilarion, who heads the Fifth-Ray masses of the Christian people who inhabit ashram, is known to have inspired the spiritu- the occidental countries, and who gather in alist movement in the 19th century and is also the churches. He is distinctively a great working with “Psychical Research groups eve- leader, an organizer, and a wise general ex- rywhere . . . [and] has under observation all ecutive. A special group of devas work un- those who are psychics of the higher order, and der His command, and His connection with assists in developing their powers for the good all true church leaders and executives is of the group.”90 very close. He acts ceaselessly on the inner Christian Science, founded by Mary Baker esoteric council of the churches, and with Eddy in 1879 as part of the New Thought Him the groups of violet angels cooperate.85 Movement, represents one of the few attempts We would like to know more about “the inner to inject esoteric principles into evangelical esoteric council of the churches”: its history, Christianity (another being the Unity School of membership, goals and accomplishments. Christianity). It is a small denomination in

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 29 The Esoteric Quarterly terms of membership, but the Tibetan viewed are the “devas of the ethers,”93 “closely allied it favorably: with the evolutionary development of man's etheric body.”94 The rose and blue devas, with Christian Science is a Fifth Ray expression whom Koot Hoomi works, are the ag- of thought and was one of the effects of the nisuryans—devas of the “astral,” emotional, incoming Fifth Ray life. A very large num- plane. The Lord Varuna is the “God of Wa- ber of Christian Scientists are either Fifth or ter”95 and “Raja of the astral plane.”96 We learn Sixth Ray egos, for this particular school of that “He comes into manifestation in connec- thought was one of the means whereby the tion with one of the Heavenly Men, Who is the fanatical emotional idealism (engendered Lord of a major Ray,” and that the power of by the potency of the Sixth Ray influence emotion stems from “His more advanced stage dominant for so many centuries) could be of development and also to the fact that the offset, and the mental grasp of truth and of Logos Himself is polarized in His astral life carefully fostered. Under its influence, body.”97 Significantly, religious devotion is an the stage was set on which many mystics expression of the Sixth Ray, and the astral could begin to organize their mental bodies plane is the sixth systemic plane (counting and discover that they had minds which from above); its symbol, water, is the essence could be used, and thus be prepared for the of the sixth physical subplane. occult way.91 As we look forward to restoration of the Mys- The Master Koot Hoomi, the Christ’s “second teries, we can also anticipate greater awareness in command,” is also involved in religious of a “group of devas closely connected with matters. Like Jesus, he works through the the mysteries of initiation. They form what is churches, and he too has help from the devic esoterically called the ‘path of the Heart,’ and orders: are the bridge between the astral and the bud- The Master K.H., the Chohan on the teach- dhic planes.”98 ing ray and He Who will be the next world The Masters Jesus and Koot Hoomi are both teacher, is . . . attempting to transmute the working with the leaders of Christian denomi- thoughtform of religious dogma, to perme- nations as well as with the masses of the faith- ate the churches with the idea of the Com- ful: “Certain great prelates of the Anglican and ing, and bring to a sorrowing world the vi- Catholic churches are wise agents of His [Je- sion of the Great Helper, the Christ. He sus],”99 and: “The Master K.H. works also with works with the rose devas and with the blue the prelates of the great Catholic churches— devas on astral levels, with the wise help of Greek, Roman and Anglican—with the leaders the great guardian Angel of that plane . . . of the Protestant communions, [and] with the the Lord Varuna. The activity of the astral foremost workers in the field of education.”100 plane is being much intensified and the an- If only we knew who those prelates were or gels of devotion, in whom the aspect of di- are! The “Catholic churches,” with which the vine love is pre-eminent, work with the as- two Masters are working, are the primary sac- tral bodies of all those who are ready to ramental churches, and their potential to play a strengthen and redirect their spiritual aspi- collective role in the New World Religion has ration and desire. They are the angels who already been mentioned. Reference to the guard the sanctuaries of all the churches, “Protestant communions” may provide further cathedrals, temples and mosques of the evidence that evangelical Christianity will also world. They are now increasing the mo- have a role.101 mentum of their vibration for the raising of the consciousness of the attendant congre- The two Masters’ work with religious leaders gations.92 seems to imply that the value of organizational leadership—and indeed of the organizations The comments on participation by devic be- themselves—is recognized by the Planetary ings are evocative. The violet devas, with Hierarchy. It would also suggest that the New whom the Master Jesus is said to be working, World Religion will involve some form of or-

30 Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly, 2012. Fall 2012 ganizational structure with positions of leader- these—in their totality—will constitute this ship responsibility resembling those of prel- sixth group.104 ates, primates and presidents in today’s The Tibetan made a similar statement several churches. years later, confirming that the work was not Roles for Disciples confined to the select group of disciples to whom the Discipleship books were mainly ad- The anticipated involvement of senior mem- dressed: bers of the Hierarchy in establishing the New World Religion and restoring the mysteries Workers in the field of religion will formu- might suggest that the rest of us can sit back late the universal platform of the New and watch developments as spectators. But the World Religion. It is a work of loving syn- Tibetan insisted that each of us can play a role, thesis and will emphasize the unity and the and there is no time to waste: fellowship of the spirit. This group is, in a pronounced sense, a channel for the activi- It is necessary for you to understand the ties of the Christ, the world Teacher. The immediate spiritual possibilities which con- platform of the New World Religion will be front humanity if those of you who have vi- built by many groups, working under the sion and love humanity are to measure up 105 inspiration of the Christ. to the immediate opportunity. It is necessary that you should grasp the immediate Initially, a relatively small group of people will preparatory steps which you can take in re- be involved: “[O]nly those souls who are on lation to those possibilities and should also the Probationary Path or the Path of Disciple- have a vision of the principles which must ship will form the nucleus of the coming world govern the new world religion, with its out- religion.”106 The “first detachment gathered standing points of focus.102 into the coming Church will be found to be a part of the present great band of servers. These Implementation “will take the form of a con- have, down the ages, been associated with the scious unified group approach to the world of 107 Christ in His work.” But many more people spiritual values, evoking . . . reciprocal action will soon be involved: from Those Who are the citizens of that world—the planetary Hierarchy and affiliated The numbers of those associated with Him groups.”103 will be greatly increased, for all who knew Him in earlier incarnations in the ancient The Tibetan identified ten “focal points of en- East, all whom He cured or taught, all who ergy in the human family through which cer- contacted Him or in any way incurred kar- tain energies can flow into the entire race.” ma with Him or with the Master Jesus, will The sixth focal point, consisting of “workers in have the opportunity to cooperate at this the Field of Religion,” will bear the major re- time. Each sincere aspirant who is closely sponsibility for building the New World Reli- connected with the present Church organi- gion: zations, who feels a close link with the Their work is to formulate the universal Christ and who loves Him, can be practical- platform of the New World Religion. It is a ly sure that in Palestine they saw Him, work of loving synthesis and it will empha- knew Him and mayhap served and loved size the unity and the fellowship of the spir- Him.108 it. This group is, in a pronounced sense, a Support for the New World Religion is ex- channel for the activity of the second Ray pected to come from a group, steadily growing of Love-Wisdom, that of the World Teach- in size, whom the Tibetan called “intellectual er . . . . The platform of the New World Re- mystics, the knowers of reality who belong to ligion will be built by the many groups, no one religion or organization, but who regard working under the inspiration of the Christ themselves as members of the Church univer- and the influence of the Second Ray and sal and as ‘members one of another’.” 109 One

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 31 The Esoteric Quarterly could easily apply to them the term “Body of Opportunities Christ,” long used in Christian circles. They The Tibetan assured us that nobody will be are, the Tibetan continued, coerced into helping to implement the new gathered out of every nation, race and peo- religion: “I only seek to give you information, ple; they are of every color and school of leaving you to make due application under the thought, yet they speak urge of your own the same language, Support for the New World souls.”112 For those learn by the same sym- Religion is expected to come who respond, many bols, tread the same from a group, steadily opportunities present path, have rejected the themselves. same non-essentials, growing in size, whom the and have isolated the For convenience the Tibetan called “intellectual following suggestions same body of essential refer to “Christians,” beliefs. They recognize mystics, the knowers of re- defined as adherents to each other; they accord ality who belong to no one traditional Christian equal devotion to the religion or organization, but doctrine and religious spiritual leaders of all practices, and “esoteri- races, and use each oth- who regard themselves as er's Bibles with equal members of the Church cists,” as people who subscribe to modern freedom. They form the universal and as ‘members esoteric philosophy. subjective background But we are not neces- of the new world; they one of another’.” One could sarily talking about two constitute the spiritual easily apply to them the nucleus of the coming entirely distinct groups term “Body of Christ,” long of people. Some tradi- world religion; they are tional Christians are the unifying principle used in Christian circles. already familiar with which will eventually 110 esoteric teachings, and some esotericists are save the world. either drawn to, or are members of, mainline Assuming that the New World Religion will churches. This area of overlap, this middle have some kind of ecclesiastical structure, the ground, is a particularly fertile area for effec- roles currently played by senior clergy will tive action. eventually be taken over by senior disciples of Esotericists in the middle ground have oppor- the Master: tunities to participate in transforming Christi- This whole concept of the chela on the anity from within. Such work must obviously thread lies behind the distorted teaching be approached with sensitivity. To try to sub- about the prerogatives and privileges of the vert a church’s activities, or to tell a bishop priesthood and the relation of the Pope, for what is wrong with his or her church, would be instance, to God or of the “elect” to the harmful as well as counterproductive. Partici- Deity. This latent and unfulfilled ideal is pation means becoming engaged members of that of the chela on the thread and the Mas- Christian communities, building the trust of ter and His Ashram, interpreted by the ec- fellow members, and discovering the richness clesiastical consciousness as the Church. of their traditions. In the process esotericists When the coming world religion is built may come into contact with “those who vibrate around the work and the activity of the to the great love ray, the second Ray of Love- world disciples and knowers, then we shall Wisdom” and discover the environment see these symbols, called the “rights and through which “Christ Himself works.” When prerogatives of the priesthood,” correctly opportunities present themselves the esoteri- interpreted and truly expressed.111 cists can, with love and wisdom, steer fellow

32 Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly, 2012. Fall 2012 members toward more inclusive attitudes or the law of karma has scriptural support from sow the seeds of new understanding of doctri- the Apostle Paul’s admonition “whatsoever a nal issues. Esotericists with strong Second-Ray man soweth, that shall he also reap.”116 Chris- influence, at the soul or personality level, may tians may be interested in learning about pos- be particularly suited to this kind of work. sible distinctions between the human Jesus and a divine Christ. Service projects are excellent ways for esotericists and Christians, in the middle ground or Yet another field of service is seeking common otherwise, to come together in a spirit of love ground between Christian doctrine and esoteric and cooperation. Disaster response offers spe- philosophy. The mystical theology of the East- cial opportunities insofar as the urgency and ern Orthodox churches may offer the best im- critical need for effective action can help over- mediate prospects, but bridging work needs to come mutual suspicions that might otherwise address both eastern and western doctrine. prevail. It is worth noting that large Christian Common ground already extends beyond the denominations have the resources and experi- three (four, or six) principles identified by the ence to take on national and international ser- Tibetan. The two sides are still far apart on vice projects, while esoteric groups presently some issues, and terminology is a serious lack such capabilities. stumbling block, but progress has already been made toward a synthesis of understanding. Esotericists with Second, Sixth, or Seventh Such work requires more than a superficial Ray influence may be led to participate in understanding of Christian theology. It also Christian healing and meditation/prayer requires establishing credibility in religious groups. Healing practices in both sacramental circles; otherwise the results will be ignored by and charismatic churches have much in com- their target audience. Traditional Christians mon with modalities like Reiki.113 Centering may be reluctant to read esoteric journals, even Prayer, which has become popular in multiple if their attention is drawn to articles of poten- denominations, forms a bridge between the tial interest. contemplative prayer of cloistered religious orders and occult meditation.114 Christian Fifth Ray personalities may find their calling members of the groups can be encouraged to in this kind of work. Much research is needed, recite the Great Invocation. Questions concern- but the stakes are high. If successful the work ing terminology should be answered as simply could open the way to the “dynamic, expres- as possible; for example, “the Masters” can be sive truth [that] will be the keynote of the New equated to the saints. Longer explanations can World Religion.” come later. Challenges Engaging in dialog with individual Christians is another field of service, one that may appeal The transformation of Christianity must be to esotericists with Fourth or Fifth Ray person- approached with caution. In haste to sweep alities. Again this must be approached with away the bad, much good could also be lost. great sensitivity, and conversations must not be The beauty of the Christian liturgy; the prayer allowed to descend to an emotional level. Re- lives of the great mystics; sacred architecture, ligious beliefs and love of tradition run deep, art and music; and the insights of the great the- and people are unlikely to abandon them in ologians represent some of the richest aspects response to cursory arguments. On the other of western—and Greco-Russian—civilization. hand many traditional Christians are interested They have enormous value, and we discard in esoteric concepts and would like to know them at our cultural and spiritual peril. Three more. They may, for example, be interested to examples will show what can go wrong. learn more about reincarnation and karma but In the Protestant Reformation justifiable anger are afraid that it contradicts established doc- over clerical excess led to misguided “re- trine. Christians should be assured that no forms” in which the Eucharist was turned into ecumenical council or papal edict has ever de- a purely commemorative act, five of the tradi- 115 clared belief in rebirth heretical. Moreover tional seven sacraments were discarded,

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 33 The Esoteric Quarterly shrines were desecrated, irreplaceable sacred where rationalist skepticism has long waged art was destroyed, and monasteries providing war against belief in any kind of subtle reality. the only social services in their day were dis- Esotericists involved in establishing the New solved. Instrumental music was outlawed in World Religion are likely to face considerable the Reformed Churches, choirs were disband- opposition from rationalist factions—and from ed, organ pipes torn from churches, and church corporate and political interests for reasons to bells melted down to make guns. Even congre- be discussed shortly. Those employed in aca- gational singing was outlawed for sixty years demia, research laboratories, large corpora- in Ulrich Zwingli’s Zürich.117 Calvinist beliefs tions, or government agencies who ally them- and attitudes laid the groundwork for today’s selves publicly with the new religion may evangelical fundamentalism.118 jeopardize their careers. In response to assault by Enlightenment skep- At the organizational level the New World Re- tics, 18th-century century liberal theologians ligion will face opposition from reactionary began to “demythologize” scripture and ration- forces inside and outside institutional Christi- alize doctrine. The end result was the conten- anity. Djwhal Khul went so far as to say that “a tion that Jesus was just a good man, and scrip- major war” may be fought over the issue: ture just a mixture of questionable historical “fought largely with mental weapons and in facts and pious fiction. Faith gave way to ag- the world of thought; it will involve also the nosticism, and any sense of “the sacred” was emotional realm, from the standpoint of ideal- lost—or, if any remained, it came largely from istic fanaticism.”120 He offered the following outside the Christian tradition. warning: The liturgy of the Roman Catholic Church was This inherent fanaticism (found ever in re- translated into vernacular languages after Vati- actionary groups) will fight against the ap- can II. The changes were well-intentioned, but pearance of the coming world religion and the resulting liturgies were not well received, the spread of esotericism. For this struggle and the 1,400-year tradition of Gregorian chant certain of the well-organized churches, was sacrificed. Efforts are now being made to through their conservative elements (their revive the Latin Mass and daily offices, but most powerful elements), are already gird- two generations of people have grown up with ing themselves. Those sensitive to the new no familiarity with church Latin, and few peo- spiritual impacts are still far from powerful; ple today can sing Gregorian chant. that which is new always faces the supreme difficulty of superseding and overcoming Patience is needed. Christianity is a large insti- that which is old and established. Fanati- tution, with a 2,000-year history. Transforming cism, entrenched theological positions, and it is like changing the course of an ocean liner. materialistic selfishness are to be found ac- The ship will not immediately turn through tively organized in the churches in all con- 90, but firm, sustained force on the rudder tinents and of all denominations. They can will eventually achieve the desired result. The be expected to fight for their established alternative of blowing up the ship will not lead ecclesiastical order, their material profit and to a successful transformation. their temporal rule, and already are making People involved in establishing the New World the needed preparations.121 Religion will face a variety of challenges, both The Tibetan may have had in mind traditional- as individuals and as a group. Esotericists may ly powerful institutions, like the Roman Catho- be rebuffed in their efforts to reach out to tradi- lic Church. Much has changed, however, and tional Christians, or may find that their efforts the greater threat may now come from evan- exacerbate friction—in some cases already gelical fundamentalism. Fundamentalism has intense—between progressive Christians and gained tremendous political power in recent more conservative clergy and laity. They also decades and has shown how effective fear and face the scorn of other esotericists.119 Esoteri- intimidation can be in achieving its narrow cists may face hostility from the secular world, objectives.

The New World Religion, like Christianity as Doctrine needs to be refined in the light of we know it, will operate in relationship to oth- what we now know of the Logos, the Christ, er institutions in modern society. But, unlike the Master Jesus, and other members of the Christianity, it is likely to be more effective in Planetary Hierarchy, along with their shared fighting social injustice, corporate greed, gov- vision for the future of humanity. Ecclesiasti- ernment corruption, and damage to the envi- cal structures may be preserved, but leadership ronment. In consequence, powerful economic will be assumed by the Masters or their senior and political forces will feel threatened and disciples. The anticipated restoration of the will fight back using all the means they have— Mysteries suggests that the sacraments— or will acquire in the decades and centuries to “properly interpreted”—will form the Lesser come. Mysteries, while the first and second initiations Finally, participation by the Masters and the will herald enactment of the Greater Mysteries Christ in the New World Religion inevitably on the physical plane. will attract the attention of planetary, and even Many Christians share the view that Christiani- extra-planetary, evil on the astral and mental ty is in need of transformation and are already planes. These forces of evil will take ad- working to bring that about. Esotericists have vantage of reactionary elements, within the opportunities to get involved too, and several churches and in the larger society, in their at- areas of relevant work have been identified. tempt to prevent or impede establishment of Who is drawn to such work, and where they the new religion. The author of the Epistle to can make their best contribution, may depend the Ephesians might have been speaking for on Ray type. People on even-numbered Rays our own time when he wrote: may be more suited to the work than those on [W]e wrestle not against flesh and blood, odd-numbered Rays, though opportunities for but against principalities, against powers, Fifth and Seventh Ray esotericists have been against the rulers of the darkness of this noted. People with strong Second Ray influ- world, against spiritual wickedness in high ence are likely to be the most responsive to the places. Wherefore take unto you the whole call of the Christ who heads the vast ashram of armor of God, that ye may be able to with- religion and education. stand in the evil day, and having done all, Esotericists who work individually or collec- to stand.122 tively in transforming Christianity, or more directly in building the New World Religion, Concluding Remarks will face many challenges. As an institution he Master Djwhal Khul’s prophecies con- the new religion will face many more. But the T cerning the New World Religion evoke challenges are not insurmountable, and the great excitement, along with the recognition work must go forward. While we must do our that an enormous amount of work lies ahead. part, we can be assured that the Masters and Senior members of the Planetary Hierarchy, the Christ foresee where opposition will be including the Christ himself, will do the focused and will provide guidance on how to “heavy lifting,” but as always much depends overcome or circumvent it. on humanity’s own efforts. Christians, mem- Religion is just one facet of human endeavor, bers of other world religions, and members of but it has always been an important one. If we the worldwide esoteric community are all respond to the initiatives of the Christ and the called upon to help. Planetary Hierarchy, and if we do our part with The Tibetan Master indicated that Christianity love and wisdom, we can be sure that the New will form one of the principal foundations of World Religion will play an important role in the new religion, and the present article has humanity’s spiritual development throughout taken that focus. He explained that what is best the Aquarian Age. in Christianity will be preserved, while excess- es, abuses, destructive attitudes, and faulty thinking must be swept away.

1 The essay is reproduced in a pamphlet available cism,” The Esoteric Quarterly (Fall 2011), 17- from the School for Esoteric Studies in Ashe- 41. ville, North Carolina. Whether Bailey received 25 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 144- any response from the churches has not been 150; The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 404- recorded. 405. 2 Contained in the original essay and also includ- 26 Alice A. Bailey, Problems of Humanity (New ed in Alice A. Bailey, The Externalization of the York, NY: Lucis, 1964), 156, Hierarchy (New York, NY: Lucis, 1957), 403. 27 Ibid., 3 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 28 Alice A. Bailey, From Bethlehem to Calvary 530. (New York, NY: Lucis, 1937), 163. 4 John F. Nash, “Christianity’s Role in the New 29 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, World Religion,” The Esoteric Quarterly 416. See also Problems of Humanity, 144-145. (Spring 2006), 37-52. 30 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 5 John F. Nash, The Sacramental Church (Eu- 510-511. Parenthesis in original. gene, Oregon: Wipf & Stock, 2011), 1-8. “Eso- 31 Ibid., 400-401. Parenthesis in original. teric Christianity” is not yet an identifiable 32 Evangelical churches emphasize preaching, fourth category; esoteric activity can be found Bible study, and individual conversion and in denominations in all three existing categories. downplay sacramental ritual. Baptists provide a 6 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, good example of evangelical Christianity. 510. Parenthesis in original. 33 Ibid., 202. 7 Ibid., 511. 34 Alice A. Bailey, Discipleship in the New Age II 8 Alice A. Bailey, The Reappearance of the (New York, NY: Lucis, 1966), 403. Christ (New York, NY: Lucis, 1948), 65. 35 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 9 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 419. 511-512. 36 Ibid., Parenthesis in original. 10 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 108. 37 Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on White Magic 11 Alice A. Bailey, Initiation, Human and Solar (New York, NY: Lucis, 1934), 517. (New York: NY, Lucis, 1922), 49. 38 Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology (New York, 12 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 42-43. NY: Lucis, 1951), 299. Parenthesis in original. See also The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 39 Ibid. 596-597. 40 Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Psychology II (New 13 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, York, NY: Lucis, 1942), 195-196. The next 400-401. World Servers Festival takes place in December 14 See the definition is Merriam-Webster Diction- 2012. ary. Online: http://www.merriam-webster.com- 41 Bailey, Problems of Humanity, 155. /dictionary/churchianity. (accessed July 9, 42 Ibid., 510-511. Parenthesis in original. 2012). 43 Ibid., 514. Parenthesis in original. 15 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 140. 44 Ibid. Parenthesis in original. 45 Ibid. 16 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 46 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 80. 448. Parentheses in original. 17 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 108. 47 See for example Charles W. Leadbeater, Sci- 18 Ibid., 140. Emphasis removed. ence of the Sacraments (Adyar, India: Theo- 19 Ibid., 144. sophical Publishing House, 1920.) Notwith- 20 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, standing its name, the Liberal Catholic Church 202. is definitely part of sacramental Christianity. 21 Ibid. 48 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 22 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 143. 401. 23 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 49 Bailey, Discipleship in the New Age II, 164- 55-56. 165. 24 Traditional practices used by contemplative 50 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, religions orders and practices imported from In- 418. See also Problems of Humanity, 159. dia and Japan now offer ordinary people oppor- 51 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, tunities to tread the mystical path. John F. Nash, 150. Parenthesis in original. “Prayer and Meditation in Christian Mysti-

52 Ibid., 514. University Press, 1997), 245. “Deified” was a 53 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 86. reference to the Eastern Orthodox doctrine of 54 Ibid. Parenthesis in original. theosis, or “deification.” See for example John 55 Ibid., 82. F. Nash, “Theosis: a Christian Perspective on 56 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 71. Human Destiny,” The Esoteric Quarterly 57 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, (Spring 2011), 15-33. 514. 75 Sergei Bulgakov, Sophia: the Wisdom of God 58 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, (W. Stockbridge, MA: Lindisfarne Press, 1993), 514-515. 138-139. 59 One man who pursued that dream for much of 76 Daniel Andreev, Rose of the World, 1, 1, trans: his life was Alphonse Louis Constant (1810– J. Roberts (Moscow, Russia: Daniel Andreev 1875), who wrote under the pseudonym Charity Foundation, 1997). Much of the book “Éliphas Lévi.” We might also mention several was written while Andreev was in a Soviet labor prominent Theosophists who were also involved camp. in Co-Masonry as well as in the Liberal Catho- 77 Alice A. Bailey, The Destiny of the Nations lic Church. (New York, NY: Lucis, 1949), 61. 60 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 78 An estimated 25 percent of the population of 573. western countries believes in reincarnation. 61 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 122- 79 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 123. 590. 62 Ibid. 80 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 64. 63 Ibid., 158. Parenthesis in original. 64 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 81 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 510. 511-512. 65 John F. Nash, “Esoteric Healing in the Ortho- 82 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 64. dox, Roman and Anglican Churches,” The Eso- 83 Bailey, Initiation: Human and Solar, 46. teric Quarterly (Spring 2007), 37-50. 84 Ibid., 46-47. The Mahachohan heads up the 66 We note, however, that the great mystics had great Third-Ray ashram, under which are major their own insights and, in consequence, often ashrams expressing the Fourth-through-Seventh came under intense scrutiny from ecclesiastical Rays. authorities. See for example Nash, “Prayer and 85 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, Meditation in Christian Mysticism.” 506. 67 Bernard J. Lee et al., The Catholic Experience 86 Bailey, Initiation, Human and Solar, 57. of Small Christian Communities (Mahwah, NJ: 87 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, Paulist Press, 2000). 573. 68 Ibid., 10-11, 63-69, 74. 88 Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire 69 Hal Taussig, A New Spiritual Home (Salem, (New York: Lucis Publishing Company, 1925), OR: Polebridge Press, 2006), 91. 759. The Tibetan continued: “This may be 70 Nash, The Sacramental Church, 225-227. Sig- looked for, should plans progress as hoped, nificantly, the social ministry was spearheaded about the year 1980.” Evidently plans did not by high-church groups within the Anglican progress as hoped. Churches that were also pressing for the restora- 89 Ibid. tion of pre-Reformation ritual. 90 Bailey, Initiation, Human and Solar, 59. 71 Katherine Jefferts Schori was elected presiding 91 Bailey, Discipleship in the New Age II, 685. bishop and primate of the Episcopal Church in Parenthesis in original. 2006 and is serving a nine-year term of office. 92 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 72 See for example Bailey, Esoteric Healing, 63- 505-506. Theosophist Geoffrey Hodson wrote of 64. angelic beings residing in houses of worship 73 The results of theological dialog between the and participating in the liturgy. See for example, Anglican Communion and the Roman Catholic his Clairvoyant Investigations, Wheaton, IL: and Eastern Orthodox churches are discussed in Quest, 1984, 75-140. Nash, The Sacramental Church, 232-244, 263- 93 Alice A. Bailey, Letters on Occult Meditation 264. (New York, NY: Lucis, 1922), 127. 74 Pavel Florensky, The Pillar and the Ground of 94 Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire, 90. Truth, trans: B. Jakim (Princeton, NJ: Princeton 95 Ibid., 626fn.

96 Ibid., 897. 113 See for example Nash, “Esoteric Healing in the 97 Ibid., 661. Comments on pp. 897-898 indicate Orthodox, Roman and Anglican Churches.” that the “Heavenly Man” in question is the Log- Charismatic churches form a subset of evangeli- os of Neptune. cal churches. 98 Ibid., 678. 114 Prayer covers a broad spectrum of intent and 99 Bailey, Initiation, Human and Solar, 57. methodology. The two major forms of contem- 100 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, plative prayer are: cataphatic prayer, which in- 506. volves words and images—but no sense of peti- 101 The Tibetan mentioned the “Greek church” but tion or intercession—and apophatic prayer did not mention the Russian Orthodox Church, which seeks to transcend words and images. See which is by far the largest in the Orthodox for example Nash, “Prayer and Meditation in church family. The Scandinavian Lutheran Christian Mysticism.” churches and modern neo-Lutheran groups al- 115 Opposition to belief in reincarnation crept into ready form part of sacramental Christianity. Christian doctrine on the basis of a series of Other Lutheran churches straddle the divide be- anathemas against church father Origen, con- tween sacramental and evangelical Christianity cerning his teachings on the preexistence of the but, like the Anglican churches, are moving into soul, issued by the Emperor Justinian. The the sacramental category. Methodists, Baptists, anathemas were presented to the Second Coun- and most other Protestant denominations are cil of Constantinople, which the emperor con- primarily evangelical in character. vened in 553 CE. But no record exists that they 102 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, were ever put to a vote, and they do not appear 393. in the council’s proceedings. 103 Alice A. Bailey, Education in the New Age 116 Galatians 6:7 (KJV). The Master Hilarion pre- (New York: Lucis, 1954), 122-123. viously incarnated as Paul. See for example Bai- 104 Alice A. Bailey, Discipleship in the New Age I ley, Initiation, Human and Solar, 59. (New York, NY: Lucis, 1944), 38. 117 Zwingli, a close contemporary of Luther’s, 105 Bailey, The Reappearance of the Christ, 158- spearheaded the Swiss Reformation. John Cal- 159. vin, based in Geneva, took control of the 106 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, movement a generation later. 513. 118 John F. Nash, Christianity: the One, the Many, 107 Ibid. vol.2 (Bloomington, IN: Xlibris, 2007), 64-89. 108 Ibid., 513-514. 119 Sadly, separatism has not entirely been eradi- 109 Bailey, A Treatise on White Magic, 328. cated within the esoteric community. 110 Ibid., 329. 120 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 111 Bailey, Discipleship in the New Age I, 746. 453. 112 Bailey, The Externalization of the Hierarchy, 121 Ibid. Parenthesis in original. 393. 122 Ephesians 6:12-13 (KJV).

WAYS OF APPROACH TO UNDERSTANDING THE SEVEN RAYS

Iván Kovács

The seven rays are the sum total of the divine Consciousness, of the universal Mind; They might be regarded as seven intelligent Entities through Whom the plan is working out.1 Alice A. Bailey: Esoteric Psychology, Volume I A ray is but a name for a particular force or type of energy, with the emphasis upon the quality which that force exhibits and not upon the form aspect which it creates. This is a true definition of a ray.2 Alice A. Bailey: Esoteric Psychology, Volume I

Abstract Foremost among the various energies and forces that compose and condition our exist- he purpose of this article is to inform the ence, are the seven major types of Divine en- T reader of the latest developments regard- ergy or force, i.e., the Seven Rays. Each of ing the study of the seven rays. Following a these great rays acts to further the evolution of general introduction and a short description of humanity and all life, via a “form of teaching the rays is a brief sampling of the works of truth . . . which is its unique contribution.”3 authors besides Alice A. Bailey, who have While these creative energies and forces are written about the seven rays. This is followed responsible for life and all that this term oc- by a more detailed discussion of the contribu- cultly entails, it is important to realize that it is tions of Kurt Abraham and Michael Robbins, not the rays as such, that are to blame for nega- both of whom are actively involved with the tive outcomes and effects, but rather the quali- teachings on the seven rays, not just as authors, ty of the substance with which they interact. but also as teachers who have founded their In learning to consciously work with the par- own esoteric schools. This article provides a ticular qualities that these divine forces exhibit, closer look and sampling of their writings. It it is the motive behind our response to and use also describes how, as an addition to a formal of these energies that we must consider. Do approach to the seven rays, a more playful and those motives originate from personality levels imaginative method can be adopted. and can thus be identified as fundamentally Introduction selfish; or do they originate from soul levels ______f we look beyond the outer or physical ap- I pearance of our everyday lives, we have to About the Author acknowledge that we live in a world of energy Iván Kovács is qualified as a fine artist. As a writer and force. These energies and forces vary in he has published art criticism, short stories and po- countless ways with regards to their aspect and ems, and more recently, articles of an esoteric na- their quality. They interact with each other in ture. He is a reader of the classics and modern clas- just as many ways, and in their extremes, ei- sics, a lover of world cinema, as well as classical ther cause destruction and conflict, or tend to- and contemporary music. His lifelong interest in wards harmony, cooperation and synthesis. Esotericism was rounded off with several years of intensive study with the Arcane School.

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 39 The Esoteric Quarterly and are therefore applied to benefit the group, who are familiar with Alice a Bailey’s Esoteric and as a result further the cause of right human Psychology, Volume I and II, and Discipleship relationships? in the New Age, Volume I and II, know how important a good working knowledge of the Although we have heard the Ancient Greek rays can be and how the application of that aphorism “Man, know thyself” so often that it knowledge can benefit their service and their has become something of a spiritual platitude, lives. its significance is nonetheless as valid today as it was when it was first coined. It is only those A Short Overview of the Seven who have not probed deeply enough into their Rays According to the Tibetan natures who make light of it, because they are apt to mistake a fraction of themselves for their and Alice A. Bailey entire being. When this well-known aphorism he seven rays can be said to fall into two is applied to the more subtle aspects of our T groups, namely the three major rays and constitution, it opens up a treasure chest of the four minor rays; the first group often re- endless possibilities which, even a few genera- ferred to as the Rays of Aspect, and the second tions ago were only known to a select few, group as the Rays of Attribute: such as the members of the Spiritual Hierarchy and their more intimate co-workers. In our pre- Rays of Aspect sent times, those who desire to make a con- 1. The Ray of Will, or Power. scious effort to set foot upon the Spiritual Path 2. The Ray of Love-Wisdom. can turn to a wealth of information to aid their 3. The Ray of Active Intelligence. quest, provided that they make the needed effort and search for it in an intelligent and sys- Rays of Attribute tematic way. 4. Ray of Harmony, Beauty, or Art. If we consider the human constitution as a 5. Ray of Concrete Knowledge or Sci- whole, it becomes clear that we are dealing ence. with a delicate instrument capable of both re- ceiving and distributing energies and forces in 6. Ray of Abstract Idealism or Devotion. 4 a variety of ways and on the various levels of 7. Ray of Ceremonial Magic. our existence. This is brought about by the in- Though the seven rays affect the macrocosm teraction of the rays and the human energy and the microcosm, a short description of their centers and how they affect the world we live qualities in terms of their vices and virtues, in, not only in its obvious material sense, but demonstrate how they affect human personali- as regards the entire spectrum of our culture ty and character. By these means the reader is and civilization, including our highest spiritual enabled to identify with some of the ray quali- aspirations. ties, particularly with those that might have a Although almost everyone with a sincere inter- direct bearing with his or her own constitution. est in self-analysis could benefit from a basic The virtues characterizing each of the seven knowledge of the seven rays, it is the student rays as explained by Alice A. Bailey are sum- of esotericism and the working disciple who marized in the table below: have the most to gain from such a study. Those

Ray Virtues

First Ray of Power Strength, courage, steadfastness, truthfulness arising from absolute fear- lessness, power of ruling, capacity to grasp great questions in a large- minded way, and of handling men and measures5 Second Ray of Love- Calm, strength, patience and endurance, love of truth, faithfulness, intu-

Wisdom ition, clear intelligence, and serene temper6 Third Ray of Higher Wide views on all abstract questions, sincerity of purpose, clear intel- Mind lect, capacity for concentration on philosophic studies, patience, caution, absence of the tendency to worry himself or others over trifles7 Fourth Ray of Harmony Strong affections, sympathy, physical courage, generosity, devotion, Through Conflict quickness of intellect and perception8 Fifth Ray of Lower Strictly accurate statements, justice (without mercy), perseverance, Mind common-sense, uprightness, independence, keen intellect9 Sixth Ray of Devotion Devotion, single-mindedness, love, tenderness, intuition, loyalty, rever- ence10 Seventh Ray of Cere- Strength, perseverance, courage, courtesy, extreme care in details, self- monial Order and Magic reliance11

The above virtues are contrasted by the vices as associated with the seven rays, which are summarized in the table below:

Ray Vices

First Ray of Power Pride, ambition, willfulness, hardness, arrogance, desire to control others, obstinacy, anger12 Second Ray of Love- Over-absorption in study, coldness, indifference to others, contempt of Wisdom mental limitation in others13 Third Ray of Higher Intellectual pride, coldness, isolation, inaccuracy in details, absent- Mind mindedness, obstinacy, selfishness, overmuch criticism of others14 Fourth Ray of Harmony Self-centeredness, worrying, inaccuracy, lack of moral courage, strong Through Conflict passions, indolence, extravagance15 Fifth Ray of Lower Harsh criticism, narrowness, arrogance, unforgiving temper, lack of Mind sympathy and reverence, prejudice16 Sixth Ray of Devotion Selfish and jealous love, over-leaning on others, partiality, self- deception, sectarianism, superstition, prejudice, over-rapid conclusions, fiery anger17 Seventh Ray of Cere- Formalism, bigotry, pride, narrowness, superficial judgments, self- monial Order and Magic opinion over-indulged18

The virtues to be acquired by persons on each of the seven rays are summarized in the table below:

Ray Virtues to be acquired

First Ray of Power Tenderness, humility, sympathy, tolerance, patience19 Second Ray of Love- Love, compassion, unselfishness, energy20 Wisdom

Third Ray of Higher Sympathy, tolerance, devotion, accuracy, energy and common sense21 Mind Fourth Ray of Harmony Serenity, confidence, self-control, purity, unselfishness, accuracy, men- Through Conflict tal and moral balance22 Fifth Ray of Lower Reverence, devotion, sympathy, love, wide-mindedness23 Mind Sixth Ray of Devotion Strength, self-sacrifice, purity, truth, tolerance, serenity, balance and common sense24 Seventh Ray of Cere- Realization of unity, wide-mindedness, tolerance, humility, gentleness monial Order and Magic and love25

A Brief Summary of the Seven After the death of Alice A. Bailey, and the Rays as Treated by Authors in successful conclusion of her collaboration with the Tibetan Master, Djwahl Khul, several eso- the Post-Bailey Period tericists continued writing about the subject of lthough this article seeks to help the read- the seven rays, probably the earliest of these er gain more knowledge with respect to being Geoffrey Hodson, whose book, The Sev- A 28 the individual and the rays, its primary aim is en Human Temperaments, was first published not so much concerned with providing com- in 1952. In this book, Hodson gives examples prehensive information about each ray, but of how specific rays influence specific indi- more directed at examining those sources viduals and thus divide them into their respec- which can best aid the reader in such a quest. tive psychological types. An expansive table at In this sense this article is simply a pointer to the end of the book lists the essential qualities, those sources where an in-depth study of the suitable occupations, basic virtues and vices, rays has already been made, and aims no fur- the driving impulse, the highest attainment, the ther than sampling some of the findings from method of teaching and achievement, the these sources and pointing out some options weaknesses, sources of suffering, and the reli- regarding such a quest. gion, art, as well as the jewel which is associated with the ray.29 To illustrate how poorly the seven rays were perceived and understood prior to the writings Although Geoffrey Hodson is a Theosophist, of Alice A. Bailey, one only needs to turn to and writes from a theosophical viewpoint, Max Heindel’s The Rosicrucian Cosmo- most subsequent writers who treat the subject Conception,26 a book which lies outside the of the seven rays owe their source of inspira- scope of theosophical writing as treated by H. tion to the Bailey books. It needs to be said P. Blavatsky, and is more allied to Rudolph that any new conclusions that such newcomers Steiner’s Anthroposophy. Its short passage might have reached was only possible because about the seven rays is an early attempt to as- a thorough foundation had already been laid by sign different ray qualities to human beings, Bailey and the Tibetan. It nevertheless required but goes no further than illustrating the differ- innovation and intuition on the part of the ence between the rays by way of analogy. newcomers who were able to expand on the Heindel points out that the rays are comparable existing work. to the seven colors of the spectrum. He then One author, who has been prodigiously in- remarks that “for instance, if a red ray were to volved in creating esoteric books for more than ally itself with a green ray, inharmony (sic) half a century, and penned more than 100 27 would result.” Heindel does not elaborate any books, is Douglas Baker. Although his literary further, and the reader remains in the dark roots hark back to the books of Alice A. Bai- about the different ray qualities. ley, he is an inspired writer in his own right. In

42 Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly, 2012. Fall 2012 the introduction to his book, Esoteric Psychol- which facilitate the integration process of the ogy: The Seven Rays,30 he emphasizes the fact seven personality types prior to their fusion that “the key to the knowledge of Man’s totali- with the soul. ty for our day is the PSYCHOLOGICAL To regular readers of the Esoteric Quarterly one.”31 He argues that it is by means of an Zachary F. Lansdowne has by now become understanding of the seven rays that this something of a household name, but newcom- knowledge is made practicable, because it pro- ers to this journal will be happy to find that vides us with the whole picture of our selves, Lansdowne has also written several articles and what he calls “holistic Man.”32 Baker also about the integration process of the various points out that the rays can provide us with rays, and how they are to be compared with the new methods of healing and teach us how to writings of other traditions. Examples that manipulate soul energy. He identifies the rays come to mind are Emerson’s Essays Compared with the forces that can indicate the political to Bailey’s Technique of Integration for the character and destiny of the nations, and “show Fifth Ray,41 and The Bhagavad Gita Compared us the origin, function and future of individual to Bailey’s Technique of Integration for the races and the race of mankind as a whole.”33 First Ray.42 If the reader takes the trouble to In a companion book, The Seven Rays: Key to examine what is written about these techniques the Mysteries, Baker discusses the psychologi- and the texts they are compared to, he or she cal qualities of the rays, as well as their rela- will most likely agree how surprising and ac- tionship to the various planes of consciousness, curate these correspondences actually are. the human energy centers, and the color spectrum.34 Two Schools of Note Regard- ing the Seven Rays Michal Eastcott was a co-worker of Roberto Assagioli, the founder of Psychosynthesis, and ll esoteric schools which are based on the together they developed the body of work A teachings of the Tibetan, as they have known as the Group for Creative Meditation. been transmitted by Alice A. Bailey, lay con- In addition, Eastcott has written ‘I’ the Story of siderable emphasis on a working knowledge of the Self,35 as well as The Seven Rays of Ener- the seven rays. But two schools have made it gy,36 both published in 1980. In the former, she one of their prime concerns to use the seven gives a short summary of the rays, while in the rays as a major means to distribute the esoteric latter, she points out how the seven rays can be teachings. One is the School for the Study of utilized. However, Eastcott cautions readers the Seven Rays, the other the Seven Ray Insti- not to come to hasty conclusions when at- tute and the University of the Seven Rays, un- tempting to identify their ray types, because der the umbrella body of the Morya Federa- individuals are affected by a variety of rays tion. which are difficult to assess, and because The founder and Head of the School for the “their emphases in our lives may well differ 37 Study of the Seven Rays is Kurt Abraham, and from time to time.” his school offers a three year home study Zachary F. Lansdowne is the author of The course in the Wisdom Teachings, laying spe- Chakras and Esoteric Healing,38 which was cial emphasis on detailed knowledge about the published in 1986, and The Rays and Esoteric seven rays. 39 Psychology, which was published in 1989. The Morya Federation43 is an online school The former, apart from discussing the use of aimed at group meditation, study and service. energy centers for healing, also discusses sev- It is headed by Michael Robbins, author of a en symbolic formulas for seven different heal- comprehensive work on the seven rays entitled ing techniques, and how these formulas and Tapestry of the Gods. 44 techniques are applied in terms of the seven rays. In the latter book he discusses the “seven These two authors and their work will be techniques of integration” (first mentioned in looked at in closer detail in the following pag- Alice A. Bailey’s Esoteric Psychology II40) es in an effort to show how they have applied

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 43 The Esoteric Quarterly the basic knowledge about the seven rays as three major rays, namely the First Ray of Will presented in the teachings of Master Djwhal and Purpose, the Second Ray of Love- Khul, and in what ways they have taken the Wisdom, and the Third Ray of Active Intelli- teaching to new levels of understanding. The gence, are identified as the subjective influ- books of Alice A. Bailey laid a firm foundation ences behind the three major domains of the for the teachings about the seven rays, and social order, namely the First Ray for Gov- there are no gaps or shortcomings in the teach- ernment, the Second Ray for the Spiritual- ings. Kurt Abraham and Michael Robbins Cultural Life, and the Third Ray for the Eco- simply expanded on the teachings, showing nomic Sphere. Abraham explains that the what can be done when the teachings are ap- above three domains can only function proper- plied in practical ways. ly if each domain is allowed to do its function without interference from another48. Any inter- Kurt Abraham and the ference from one domain with the functioning Psychology of the Seven Rays of another will have some deleterious effect. n his appraisal of Kurt Abraham’s Tech- Abraham’s concluding statement on how the I niques of Soul Alignment, John Cullen, Pres- three major rays should be understood and ap- ident of the International Association for Man- plied can be summed up as follows: For the agerial and Organizational Psychosynthesis, First Ray - “Empowering others, strengthening writes as follows: “Kurt Abraham is the fore- others. Making others more self-reliant. Shar- most authority on the esoteric aspects of the ing responsibility.” For the Second Ray - “Ap- Seven Rays. He has written many books on the preciating others. Relating heart-to-heart. subject which I have found useful in their ap- Meditatively reflecting on the helpful and in- plication to psychosynthesis typology.”45 visible contribution of others.” For the Third Ray – “Clarifying the other point of view in A closer look at Abraham’s background and the effort to intuit the larger, the relative, and work seems to justify the above claim, espe- the transcendent whole.”49 cially when one takes into consideration that he has studied the Bailey material for over for- When treating the significance of the incoming ty years. In his Introduction to the Seven Seventh Ray, and the outgoing Sixth Ray, Rays46 the author provides key words and qual- Abraham points out that “from a certain per- ifying terms by which he defines each of the spective the Seventh Ray is perhaps the most seven rays. He also encourages the reader to do ‘visible’ of the seven qualifying ray energies . . a self-evaluation by means of a rating scale, .”50 He ascribes this to the fact that the Seventh and thereby arrive at an evaluation of the rele- Ray is one of the four rays of attribute, and vance or influence of a ray as it might affect because of its strong conditioning powers as the reader’s consciousness and behavior. In regards the physical-etheric plane. However, conclusion, Abraham compares the influence he also points out that from another perspec- of the outgoing Sixth Ray and incoming Sev- tive, the Seventh Ray is relatively new, be- enth Ray, which figure so dominantly during cause it is the conditioning ray of the Aquarian this period of transition between the Piscean Age. In contrast the Sixth Ray of Idealism and and Aquarian Age. Devotion, as a conditioning ray of the Piscean Age, has been with us for the past two thou- There are other important issues in this book sand years, and is thus more familiar to us than which help to enhance the reader’s understand- the Seventh Ray qualities of organization, rela- ing of the rays. The chapter dealing with ex- tionship, and ceremonial magic.51 amples of how the three major rays are impact- ing our lives on a grand scale, entitled The It is by contrasting the qualities of the two Three Rays of Aspect and the Threefold Social above mentioned rays that Abraham demon- Order,47 is well worth a closer look, for the strates their differences and distinction, and practical and demonstrable way in which it juxtaposes them as follows: explains how the rays influence the world. The

OUTGOING 6th RAY INCOMING 7th RAY Separative, selective……………..Unifying One-pointedness…… ………….. Diversity Communion of identical………... Communion of differences Isolated……………………… … Urban Authoritarian……………………. Cooperative Religious…………………………Religious, political, artistic, economic, sociological52

From the above, one can conclude that under spective, that stage in her life appears to have the influence of the Seventh Ray things might culminated in failure. With a failed marriage become more complex, but nevertheless uni- and no proper career to speak of she is forced fied, with an emphasis on tolerance and ac- to work in a sardine factory, so that she can ceptance of diversity, and thus in conformity support herself and her three young children. with the group spirit and the ideal of right hu- But from a soul consciousness point of view, man relationships. her life is busy transforming itself into something very different.55 An intriguing work by Kurt Abraham, entitled Great Souls: The Seven Rays at the Soul Lev- Abraham points out that “this experience of el,53 discusses seven exceptional individuals, doing the most humble, mundane and unglam- each of whom are representative of one of the orous tasks ‘down among the people’ helped seven rays. These individuals, corresponding greatly to bring about Alice’s ‘unalterable and in their given order with each of the seven unshakable faith in the beauty and divinity of rays, are Herbert Kitchener, British General; humanity.’”56 It is an important step and reali- Alice A. Bailey, founder of the Arcane School; zation in Bailey’s life, since it forms the basis A. P. Giannini, founder of Bank of America; of brotherhood and is also the foundation upon Leonardo da Vinci, Renaissance painter; which all her spiritual work rests. For someone Thomas Edison, American inventor; Alfred who is about to become a proponent of occult Lord Tennyson, British poet; and Marie Curie, truths, and the founder of an esoteric school, Polish scientist. these realizations are absolutely essential.57 Rather than giving a skeletal sampling from Life’s lessons come at a price, and it is often each of these biographies, the intention is to when everything seems lost, that a turning concentrate on just one individual’s character- point is reached, and in fact, new avenues open istics and qualities, namely Alice A. Bailey, up, and everything is to be gained. Having for the obvious reason that most readers who reached rock bottom, and realized that her cir- will read this text will find references to her cumstances had by necessity altered her per- and her life intriguing and of special interest. spective, Bailey was now ready for those con- tacts that would aid her in her true purpose as a Basing his psychological analysis of Alice Bai- world disciple. This new phase in her life initi- ley on her book, The Unfinished Autobiog- ated her 30 year telepathic relationship with raphy, Abraham alternates his text between the Tibetan Master, Djwhal Khul, by means of direct quotes from Bailey’s narration and his which her books would be written and the own insights. Not only does he concentrate on teachings given out. It also brought about her Bailey’s personal life, he also sketches in the meeting with Foster Bailey, who aided her historical background of her time, giving the with the equally unique task of founding and reader a fair idea what it might have been like 58 heading the Arcane School. to grow up in England during the Victorian era.54 It is from this stage onward that her Second Ray soul and her First Ray personality really Concerning the great turning point in Bailey’s come into play. Their importance is pointed life, just prior to the time when she found her out by Abraham as follows: “Alice’s 1st Ray true vocation, Abraham points out that, super- personality was no small contributor to her ficially observed, and from a personality per- service work. It has been said that a 2nd Ray

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 45 The Esoteric Quarterly soul likes a 1st Ray personality. The 2-1 (and seven rays in a practicable way and thereby to also 1-2) ray combination is an especially ben- satisfy his readers with concrete examples of eficial combination for several reasons.”59 how the rays can be applied and used in under- Abraham explains that in the case of a Second standing ourselves and the world about us. Ray soul with a First Ray personality, the love- wisdom aspect does not become inactive, nor Michael Robbins and the looses itself in study, and consequently will Tapestry of the Gods not shut out the world to live in an ivory tower. ven a cursory overview of the contents of Bailey admitted that she had a problem with Tapestry of the Gods reveals this work to fear (a Second Ray Problem), but was able to E be of encyclopedic proportions as far as the overcome it with the aid of seven rays are concerned. It her First Ray personality.60 [O]ur continued en- is a ground-breaking study Careful not to come up with gagement with life is which can make a rightful hastily drawn conclusions, claim of picking up the Abraham finishes his analy- synonymous with a thread where Alice A. Bailey sis of Alice Bailey’s ray continued engagement and the Tibetan Master, types with cautious specula- with the energies and Djwhal Khul, have left off. tion. He points out that earli- Used as a tool for individual er in his essay he thought that forces of the seven psychological assessment, its Bailey had a Fourth Ray rays, and thus an on- value is inestimable. Taking mind. He refers to Foster going process which is into consideration that Eso- Bailey’s declaration that Al- teric Psychology concerns ice Bailey did not have a the very driving force itself with assessing people Fifth Ray mind, but that she underlying life and not only on a personality lev- was keenly interested in sci- el, but also by attempting to entific exploration and in the evolution. identify the rays of the men- field of theoretical physics, and that she gave a tal, emotional, and physical vehicles, as well as series of lectures in New York on the subject the more subtle influence of the soul ray, it can of the atom, which was later published under be far more accurate and explicit. the title, The Consciousness of the Atom. In his commentary to the Tapestry of the Gods, Abraham suggests that it is possible that Alice Robert Gerard points out that the beauty of ray Bailey had a First Ray mind. He observes that theory and practice is due to the fact that from while she was working in India, she had a a limited number of seven types of energy, one great deal of responsibility, which included can still do justice to the uniqueness of an in- ever increasing administrative tasks, and that dividual human being. This, he explains, is her writing seems to indicate an ability to go possible because any one of the ray energies directly to the salient point. Concerning her has the potential of qualifying an individual on writing, Abraham points out that her writing any one of his fivefold vehicles, namely the could not be described as colorful, but is rather egoic, the personality, the mental, emotional, brief and to the point. On the other hand, the or physical vehicle. This five-fold ray formula fact that she had a great sense of humor sug- involves exactly 16,807 possible combinations gests the Fourth Ray. Her ability to take action, of rays. Add to this the three major monadic and to be at the head of some teaching group rays, and the number of possible permutations wherever she lived, suggests the First Ray. will exceed 50,000.62 Abraham affirms that we are sure of Bailey’s soul and personality ray, but the rest is specu- In his general introduction to Tapestry of the lation.61 Gods, Robbins affirms that each of us has a unique life purpose, because each one of us is Although Kurt Abraham’s writing is strongly a spiritual archetype that needs to be expressed rooted in the Bailey tradition, his greatest merit in time and space. He identifies all of us as is the fact that he is able to make a case for the integral and inseparable parts of a “great, all-

46 Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly, 2012. Fall 2012 inclusive ENTITY,” and points out that we are the understanding of the ray structure of a hu- intended to cooperate in this Entity’s creative man being. This effectively means an under- purposes by manifesting our individual arche- standing of the ray qualities of each of the five typal nature.63 energy fields which are usually considered in the ray chart. To be able do this, one needs to The objective of the first two volumes of Tap- recognize the functioning of one field, and dif- estry of the Gods is to aid readers to achieve ferentiate it from the functioning of another the ideal of their life purposes by means of a field.66 To achieve such a differentiation be- detailed understanding of their spiritual arche- tween the five fields, Section III illustrates types, which is made possible by correctly some of the key functions, operations and identifying the specific rays that go into the characteristic dynamics of each field. For in- making of their constitutions. Volume I (Sec- stance, the Ego as a faculty within the tions I – IV) is subtitled The Seven Rays: An Transpersonal Field is characterized as fol- Esoteric Key to Understanding Human Nature, lows: and Volume II (Sections V-VII) is subtitled Psychospiritual Transformation and the Seven 1. Source of one’s greatest contribution Rays. Together, these two volumes add up to a in service – one’s true vocation. little more than 1200 pages and are to date 2. Source of one’s selflessness and probably the most comprehensive listings of altruism. the qualities of the seven rays that has been 3. Source of one’s true conscience. attempted. A closer look at the various sections 4. Source of one’s most joyous activity. of these two volumes will make this clear. 5. Source of one’s greatest sense of Section I lists and discusses the qualities of the meaningfulness. seven rays in a general way both in terms of 6. Source of one’s sense of the sacred. their positive and negative traits. Section II 67 consists of an analysis of the differences and 7. Source of one’s ‘heart’s desire.’ similarities of the ray qualities, and taken two In contrast to the above, the Personality Field at a time, yields 21 combinations by means of is characterized both by Positive Personality which these similarities and differences are Dynamics and Negative Personality Dynamics. explored and pointed out. Robbins writes that The positive dynamics are listed as follows: the purpose of Section II is clarification, and that one of the major problems in ray analysis 1. Primary instrument for expressing the is simply the difficulty of telling one ray from soul or Ego within the three worlds of another. He draws attention to the fact that any human evolution. pair of rays has many points of distinction, and 2. Primary means (and result) of integrat- a number of points in common, and if these ing the mental, sentient and etheric- points can be clarified, confusion can be physical fields. avoided.64 3. Primary means of coordinating and di- Section III discusses and examines in a practi- recting physical plane activity. cal way the five fields of the human energy 4. Primary means of establishing the system, namely the soul field, the personality identity of the lower ego, or personal field, the mental field, the emotional field, and the etheric-physical field. Robbins explains identity. that Section III is not about giving a technical 5. Primary means of establishing genuine analysis, but about attempting to use a com- self-reliance, distinction from the monsense approach to the nature and functions mass, and originality. 65 of the five energy fields. 6. Primary means of establishing the pre- In his discussion of the fivefold human energy liminary vocation.68 system Robbins points out that as students of the seven rays, our chief purposes should be The Negative Personality Dynamics are identified as:

1. Primary means of standing in the way sion, and with respect to the two integration of the Higher Self. formulae keyed to the rays in question. These 2. Primary means of evading or failing to integration formulae are key words relating to the rays, such as inclusion for the First Ray, respond to the ‘higher calling.” centralization for the Second Ray, stillness for 3. Primary means of limiting expansion the Third Ray, etc., and when considered and and refusing to grow. meditated upon, aid the disciple in the integra- 4. Primary means of expressing selfish- tion process. Robbins also lists some examples ness and separateness. of vocational aptitudes and orientations relat- 5. Primary means of self-centering and ing to the combination of soul and personality self-referencing.69 Rays, and finally lists contemporary or historical (and sometimes, fictional or mythological) Each of the above mentioned points, whether individuals who, in his opinion, seem to em- they are identified as characterizing the body the rays under discussion.71 Transpersonal Field or the Personal Field, are Section VI deals with the five-fold ray chart then discussed in some detail, and the same is and how it is applied in ray analysis. Practical done in respect of the Lower Mental Field, the aspects are considered and numerous examples Sentient Field, and the Bio-field. The remain- of ray chart analyses are offered. In the first der of Section III discusses the differentiations part of Section VI the reader gets the oppor- between the Fields and the variable attributes tunity to work with abstract exercises. Seven of the three Personality Fields. different ray charts are presented, and possible Section IV contains a complete analysis of the methods of interpretation are discussed. Part manner in which every ray affects every field two deals with character sketches which are of the human energy system. The only fields hypothetical, in which the author pre-selected left out of the discussion are the Triadic and certain ray configurations which, at first, are Monadic fields, because so little is known not revealed. Students are allowed to draw about them. Robbins admits that many of the their own conclusions, and then compare them combinations discussed are improbable in to the author’s reasoning and analysis. The last terms of our present day knowledge, but the part of Section VI deals with an in-depth ray analysis proceeds upon the assumption that it analysis of seven well-known historical fig- is (at least theoretically) possible for any of the ures, each with a presumably different soul seven rays to condition any of the five fields ray. These seven are Francis Bacon, Annie (and even the ‘ultimate field’ – the Monadic Besant, Albert Einstein, Joan of Arc, Michel- field). He concedes that much of what is pre- angelo, Louis Pasteur, and Albert Schweitzer.72 sented in this section is purely speculative, and The final section, Section VII, consists of six based upon reasoning rather than direct obser- appendices and a glossary. Appendix I lists vation, but the need for a beginning is never- some ray tabulations from the Tibetan’s teach- theless fulfilled.70 ings as given in the books of Alice A. Bailey, Section V deals with the seven rays and the such as Words of Power, Integration Formulae, dynamics of soul/personality integration. Rob- Fusion Formulae, Discipleship and the Rays, bins discusses the seven combinations of iden- Rays in and out of manifestation, etc. Appen- tical soul and personality rays, but does not dix II deals with the constellations and the analyze them exhaustively. He examines the planets from the perspective of esoteric As- interaction between soul and personality before trology, while Appendix III discusses the the spiritual phase of evolution, during the meaning of the planets from an esoteric per- stage of conflict between the soul and person- spective. Appendix IV is devoted to a brief ality rays, and also from the perspective of the discussion of the Personal Identity Profile consciousness focused primarily within the (P.I.P. #1), a personality inventory devised to soul. He also discusses soul and personality detect the relative ray strengths in the individ- rays in relation to their potential ideal expres- ual energy system. Appendix V contains a

48 Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly, 2012. Fall 2012 meditation named “Search for the Soul Ray” up with something that might assume the fol- which is designed to assist students in deter- lowing broad outlines: mining their soul ray. Appendix VI is a rec- First Ray individuals will most likely pay at- ommended reading list on the subject of Eso- tention to the film’s political and ideological teric Psychology and the Seven Rays, and con- issues. sists of titles chosen from Alice A. Bailey’s books, as well as titles by a diversity of other Second Ray persons are likely to question the writers. The glossary lists definitions of fre- film according to its educational value, and see quently used esoteric, occult and psycho- it in terms of unfolding human relationships. 73 spiritual terms. Third Ray individuals will be aware of the The above summary is but an indication of basic plot and how well it conveys the film’s how extensive and exhaustive these two vol- message and intention. umes of Tapestry of the Gods are. Whether Fourth Ray persons will inevitably take note of they are treated as textbooks that can provide the film’s aesthetic qualities, like background systematic information about the seven rays, or sets, the manner and expression of the charac- used as works of reference, their value cannot ters, as well as their costumes, and the dra- be underestimated either by beginners nor ad- matic impact of interesting landscapes, if any. vanced students of Esoteric Psychology and the Seven Rays. Fifth Ray individuals will be concerned with the accuracy of details, such as historical facts, Some Examples of How to convincing imitation of the period that the film Think Creatively About the tries to convey, and clearly defined portrayals Seven Rays which are true to the characters. t is not only by reading about the rays that Sixth Ray persons are likely to view the film in I we gain more knowledge about them, but terms of its value as a source of inspiration, also by contemplating their qualities in imagi- and how it might apply to their ideals and af- native, experimental and hypothetical ways. fect them in an emotionally uplifting way. There are various methods by which one can Seventh Ray people might judge the film by its approach and broaden his or her knowledge intrinsic value as a detailed and well-ordered about the seven rays, apart from the purely demonstration of some spiritual or subjective scientific or academic. We can, among others, truth, as it becomes manifest in the concrete, approach the rays in an imaginative and play- physical world, and how well it can serve as a ful way, giving free rein to our imagination. model for the environment and the community. We can do this by using an “as if” approach such as role playing characters with specific Conclusion ray qualities; or by means of writing, create n the final analysis, the purpose and function imaginary characters fashioned on specific ray I of the rays is to give structure to our con- types. Another example of such innovative sciousness and being. The more advanced eso- thinking might be played out by imagining teric students are, the more they are able to how people with differing rays might respond assimilate greater expanses of that spiritual to an identical situation. vista by which we define our progressively Let us, for instance, take any well-made fea- unfolding lives. This rounding out process is ture film that has all the qualities by which it systematically brought about by our personal lives up to its good name. Then let us try and experience and knowledge of the seven rays as imagine how it might be perceived by repre- they shape and define our richly patterned sentatives of each of the seven rays. If we do lives. this by laying ourselves open to inspiration and Therefore, our continued engagement with life insight, we will be able to think about the film is synonymous with a continued engagement from seven different perspectives by basing with the energies and forces of the seven rays, them on our knowledge of the rays and come

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 49 The Esoteric Quarterly and thus an ongoing process which is the very driving force underlying life and evolution. 32 Ibid., 12. The better we understand the nature of the sev- 33 Ibid., 12. en rays, the better we understand ourselves and 34 Douglas Baker, The Seven Rays: Key to the our fellow human beings and consequently the Mysteries (New York: Samuel Weiser, 1977). richer we become in our wisdom and under- 35 Michal Eastcott, ‘I’ The Story of the Self standing of the connection between the micro- (Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing cosm and macrocosm. This empowers us to House, 1980). 36 participate with greater purpose in the great Michal Eastcott, The Seven Rays of Energy hierarchical effort and brings us closer to solv- (Turnbridge Wells, Kent, England: Sundial ing the mystery and meaning of life. House, 1980). 37 Ibid., 7. 38 Zachary F. Lansdowne, The Chakras and Eso- 1 teric Healing (York Beach, Maine: Samuel Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Psychology, Volume I Weiser, Inc., 1986). (1962; reprint; New York: Lucis Publishing 39 Zachary F Lansdowne, The Rays and Esoteric Company, 1979), 59. Psychology (York Beach, Maine: Samuel 2 Ibid., 316. 3 Weiser, Inc., 1989). Ibid., 49. 40 4 Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Psychology II. Alice A. Bailey, Letters on Occult Meditation 41 http://www.esotericstudies.net/quarterly/Files- (1950; reprint; New York: Lucis Publishing 080212/EQ080212-Lansdowne.pdf (accessed Company, 1979), 358 – 359. 5 September 10, 2012). Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Psychology, Volume I, 42 http://www.esotericstudies.net/quarterly/Files- 201. 070311/EQ070311-Lansdowne.pdf (accessed 6 Ibid., 202. 7 September 10, 2012). Ibid., 204. 43 http://www.moryafederation.net/ (accessed June 8 Ibid., 205 9 21, 2012). Ibid., 207. 44 Michael D. Robbins, Tapestry of the Gods, Vol- 10 Ibid., 208. 11 ume I and II (1988; reprint; Mariposa: The Uni- Ibid., 210. versity of the Seven Rays Publishing House, 12 Ibid., 201. 13 1996). Ibid., 202. 45 14 Kurt Abraham, Seven Rays: Frequently Asked Ibid., 204. Questions (White City: Lampus Press, 2011) 15 Ibid., 206. 16 198. Ibid., 207. 46 Kurt Abraham, Introduction to the Seven Rays 17 Ibid., 208-209. 18 (White City: Lampus Press, 1986. Ibid., 210. 47 19 Ibid., 50. Ibid., 201. 48 20 Ibid., 56. Ibid., 203. 49 21 Ibid., 73. Ibid., 204. 50 22 Ibid., 74. Ibid., 206. 51 23 Ibid., 74. Ibid., 207. 52 24 Ibid., 75. Ibid., 209. 53 Kurt Abraham, Great Souls: The Seven Rays at 25 Ibid., 210. 26 the Soul Level (White City: Lampus Press, Max Heindel, The Rosicrucian Cosmo-Concep- 2002. tion, (1909; reprint; London: L. N. Fowler & 54 Ibid., 34-38. Co., Ltd., 1937). 55 27 Ibid., 47. Ibid., 439. 56 28 Ibid., 48. Geoffrey Hodson, The Seven Human Tempera- 57 Ibid., 48. ments (Adyar, Madras, India: Theosophical 58 Ibid., 49-50. publishing House, 1952. 59 29 Ibid., 54. Ibid. 60 30 Ibid., 54. Dr Douglas Baker, Esoteric Psychology: The 61 Ibid., 54-55. Seven Rays (1975; reprint; Essendon: “Little El- 62 Michael D. Robbins, Tapestry of the Gods, xxx- ephant”, 1979). 31 xxxi. Ibid., 12. 63 Ibid., 11.

64 Ibid., 4. 70 Ibid., 5. 65 Ibid., 5. 71 Michael D. Robbins, Tapestry of the Gods II, 17 66 Ibid., 301. - 343. 67 Ibid., 304. 72 Ibid. 347-505. 68 Ibid., 310. 73 Ibid., 511- 598. 69 Ibid., 313.

Fall 2012

Triple Sign Zodiacal Meditations

Stephen D. Pugh

Abstract themselves. The significance of the Science of iven to Alice A. Bailey in 1943, the un- Triangles must ever be held in mind when G published Zodiacal Meditations are, as studying the theme of the zodiacal meditation the Tibetan Master Djwhal Khul terms them, formulas of the Tibetan. magical “formulas of invocation.” Based on Along with explaining and elaborating upon the esoteric astrological proposition that the the archetypical relationship between the three Opposite Sign, Rising Sign and Sun Sign are aspects of the Science of Triangles to the st the three respective 1 Arms or starting points three primary signs found within the horo- of the Monadic, Soul and Personality horoscope and their esoteric astrological process scopes, this astrological thesis elaborates upon of superimposition, this article also outlines their construction, meaning and the process of the construction of the three horoscopes based triple superimposition. Its purpose is to help on the 12 Arms of the three Crosses and not the disciple bring the potencies of his or her the 12 Houses. In fact, in an attempt to shed Opposite Sign, Rising Sign and Sun Sign into light upon the theme of the zodiacal medita- fuller expression and a planned fusion in the tions, seven different interrelated esoteric top- spiritual life. ics are woven together in this synthetic thesis. Introduction They are as follows: 1. The Science of Triangles n the section entitled Process, Technique I and Formula from the aforementioned, un- 2. The three Crosses published paper the Tibetan states: 3. The Triple Signs I would also call you attention to the fact 4. The three Stages of the Path that in any one incarnation the Monad works through the Opposing Sign, the soul 5. Charts of the Crosses through the Rising Sign and the personali- 6. The process of superimposition ty through the Sun Sign, and these necessarily vary from life to life.1 7. The construction of the Antahkarana. Earlier, in the Introduction of his paper, the History Tibetan identified three constellations that condition the individual whether he recogniz- he Tibetan’s unpublished Zodiac Medita- es it or not. They are: T tions were never intended to be included ______1. Sun Sign About the Author 2. Rising Sign Raised in the Bailey tradition since adolescence, 3. Opposite Sign Stephen Pugh is a practicing esoteric astrologer with a life-long background in the Ageless Wis- These three signs in the individual horoscope dom. He has been teaching and utilizing the eso- are directly related to the divine threefold na- teric process of Monad, Soul and Personality horo- ture of manifestation: will, love and intelli- scope superimposition based on the instructions of gence or life, consciousness and form. In the the Tibetan Master for over a quarter of a century. human constitution they are related to the He currently resides in Montreal, Quebec and can three major aspects of divinity as they express be reached at: [email protected].

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 53 The Esoteric Quarterly in the corpus of his thirty years of written astrological thesis takes the time to highlight work with Alice Bailey. In the concluding the Science of Triangles and discuss its chief section on the Science of Triangles in his features and relationships to the personality, book Esoteric Astrology the Tibetan made the soul and monadic signs and horoscopes in following prediction: esoteric astrology. The old exoteric astrology will still persist Tropical or Sidereal Zodiac and prove its usefulness where the average person is in question, focused in his per- he question has arisen in the mind of sonality life and oriented toward the mate- T some students if it is appropriate, to ac- rial world. Much progress toward right un- count for the precession of the equinoxes, to derstanding of astrology will come when utilize the sidereal and not the tropical zodiac. certain new meditations on the twelve Before commencing the commentary on the signs of the zodiac are made available. astrological techniques of the zodiacal formu- When the world again settles down to las it would be useful to throw some light up- calmer living, and conditions are adjusted on this question. to a more stable rhythm, these new medita- Here is a word of suggested advice. The Ti- tions can form a potent source of useful- betan Master is quite careful in his use of the ness in “brightening the web of life” and in words distinguishing the signs from the con- producing more effective spiritual living stellations. He takes the time to ask his read- 2 among men. ers to carefully note his choice of words. The He stated that the zodiacal meditations would following excerpt taken from his Introduction be practiced “later in the century when there to the Zodiacal Meditations provides a prime will be a deepened astrological response, a example. resultant understanding due to an increasing The Sun Sign is the sign of the constella- research into the nature of the zodiacal forces tion (I would have you note that phrasing) and a better psychological understanding of in which the disciple happens to be born; 3 the human being.” the Rising Sign is the sign of the constella- Concerning the timing of the release of his tion the energy of which must be used to zodiacal meditations of the utmost signifi- fulfill soul purpose in any particular life 5 cance is the following statement by the Tibet- cycle or incarnation. an taken from his Introduction: This is an unambiguous reference indicating I have postponed the giving of these medi- that the 12 zodiacal constellations have corre- tations until certain basic propositions re sponding signs. In other words, it is the corre- the Science of Triangles had been grasped sponding signs that transmit the ray energies by the student because these meditation of the constellations to the disciple. It is for formulas are based upon the planned fu- this reason in his published work that it is sion – by invocation – of three basic ener- written: gies: those of the Sun Sign and those of the The month and the sign, or the place of the sign opposite to the Sun Sign (not opposite Sun in the heavens, do not really coincide. the Rising Sign). Have these three careful- When we state, for instance, that the Sun is ly in mind as you study the theme of these “in Aries” it conveys an esoteric truth but 4 meditations. not an exoteric fact.6 We can see, from the above reference, the With these thoughts of the Tibetan Master Science of Triangles is a prerequisite study held carefully in mind, let us move forward that must precede the formal approach and with an astrological analysis of the Science of practice of the astrological formulas of the Triangles. Tibetan. For this reason, let me reiterate, this

The Science of Triangles centers. These again, according to astrological deduction, come under the influ- t is highly significant that the Tibetan’s sin- ence of certain planetary rulers. These re- I gle reference in his published work to the late them in turn to certain great Triangles zodiacal meditations takes place in the con- of Force, formed of three major condition- cluding section in his book Esoteric Astrology ing constellations. Therefore, the emphasis on the Science of Triangles. Throughout his laid upon the Science of Triangles and its astrological treatise, the Tibetan continually including Science of Esoteric Astrology; emphasizes the foundational importance of this must inevitably take shape in terms of the Science of Triangles. Concerning the as- energy, received, transferred and used, and trologers of the future he made a very signifi- throw light upon the abstruse factors which cant threefold prophecy: condition the centers and thus make man It is for this reason that the astrologers of what he is at any one time. It is a statement the future will emphasize the relation and of fact that the world of the occultist is the the interrelation of triangles. The new as- world of energy, of forces, of their origin, trologer will, as I have hinted before, lay their point of impact and the methods of the emphasis upon: their assimilation and transference or elim- ination. Unless, however, there is some 1. The Science of Triangles, as the result scientific method of comprehension, some of the growth of the initiate understanding. mode of adapting the life to these factors 2. The Rising sign, as it indicates the way and some process of experimentation in of the soul. order to prove the fact, the statement remains relatively useless to the intelligent 3. The place of the three Crosses (the Car- human being; it remains in the form of an dinal Cross, the Fixed Cross and the Muta- hypothesis, to be proved or disproved. The ble Cross) in the life of the soul. This will man who is attempting to master his lower eventually supersede the houses in the nature and has the goal of expressing his horoscope and the 12 arms of the three innate divinity requires a golden thread crosses will take the place of the 12 houses 7 whereby he can find his way out of the when casting the horoscope of the soul. caverns of bewilderment and the areas of As indicated in the third point, it should be speculation and enquiry. This process of noted here that the three respective horo- investigation, deduction and proof, the scopes later discussed in this article are based Science of Esoteric Astrology and its sub- on the 12 arms of the three crosses and not the sidiary sciences will eventually provide. 12 houses. In casting the chart the whole sign The foundation is already laid.8 and whole arm method is utilized. Each one The Tibetan goes on to say: of the corresponding signs and arms of the three crosses in the respective horoscopes are 1. The Science of Triangles is related to undivided and not demarcated by house cusps. the total expression of the divine triplicity Let us examine in more detail what the Tibet- of manifestation: will, love and intelli- an teaches concerning “the Science of Trian- gence or life, consciousness and form. Un- gles and its including Science of Esoteric As- til, therefore, the disciple can express in trology.” himself the integrated resemblance to these three aspects; he will not be able to grasp As you well know theoretically, the Sci- the meaning of this subjective astrological ence of Occultism is the Science of Ener- science. gies and of the forces upon which they make their impact; this, when concerning 2. On our planet, the Science of Triangles man, the individual, and the centers within is related to the three major aspects, as the human vehicle (major and minor) leads they express themselves through Sham- to the Science of Laya Yoga or of the force balla, the Hierarchy and Humanity. Again,

therefore, we come up against the need for configuration of the three signs corresponding the approach of the integrated human be- to our three aspects, are to be viewed as three ing to this science because only the man objective aspects, phases and stages of our who is responsive to these three focal Life or subjective Whole. In other words, the points of energy can synthesis of the triple understand the inter- I would also call you atten- forces of the individual play. Only, in fact, can tion to the fact that in any Sun, Rising and Oppo- the man apprehend the one incarnation the Monad site Sign configuration underlying truth provide the conditions whose two head cen- works through the Oppos- which correctly develop ters and his heart cen- ing Sign, the soul through the three major aspects ter form a triangle of of man so that they be- flowing energies. the Rising Sign and the come true reflections of personality through the the three divine aspects In this connection, I or energies in human would remind you of Sun Sign, and these neces- manifestation. Let us what I said earlier in sarily vary from life to life. keep in mind that only the treatise that the the truly advanced human being consciously Science of Triangles is related to spirit and responsive to the three focal points of energy synthesis. I would remind you also that contained in the Sun, Rising and Opposite what I have written in this astrological sec- Signs, can truly understand the full signifi- tion, of the Treatise on the Seven Rays is cance of the complete interplay. Our task intended for the instruction of disciples at therefore, is to express in ourselves the inte- the close of this century and during the grated resemblance to the three aspects. Until postwar period. Again I would also point we can consciously do so we will not be able out that I stated earlier that this science to penetrate deeply into the mystery and mas- must always be approached from the angle tery of our own being. of the three basic energies: i.e., those coming from the Great Bear, from the Pleiades When the threefold personality of man with and from Sirius; because (conditioned by his physical, emotional and mental bodies is time and space) these three types of energy fully developed, it is the outward reflection of pour through the three major centers, the triple energy that constitutes the appear- Shamballa, the Hierarchy and Humanity.9 ance of a human soul on earth. This definition is important because a human being can be Reasoning, as the student of esoteric astrology regarded as a personality in truth only when must from the universal to the particular, it is the body and soul nature are at-one. When the essential that we learn how to relate our own soul dominates the personality and pervades individual vehicles of response to the greater its three aspects, then and only then, does the mechanism through which the planetary Life personality measure up to its true significance functions and view our soul as an infinitesi- as the mask of the soul. mal part of the world soul. Therefore, it is necessary for us to relate our Sun Sign, our Below, I have enumerated the primary corre- Rising Sign and our Opposite Sign to our per- spondences existing between the Science of sonality, soul and Monad viewing all three as Triangles, the Three Crosses, the Triple signs aspects and integral parts of the human consti- and the three aspects or stages of the Path. tution. As earlier stated, the Triple Signs Science of Triangles Correspondences: therefore are related to the total expression of the divine threefold nature of manifestation: 1. Opposite Sign: Monad. Life. Power. Will. will, love and intelligence or life, conscious- 2. Rising Sign: Soul. Consciousness. Love. ness and form. 3. Sun Sign: Body. Personality. Activity. This indicates that the individual astrological

The Three Crosses: prove their occult efficacy and dynamic potency. 1. Cardinal Cross. Monad. First Aspect. Triple sign zodiacal meditation involves the 2. Fixed Cross. Soul. Second Aspect. study of the three primary signs of the horo- 3. The Mutable Cross. Personality. Third scopes of any individual under inspection. Aspect. The first one is the Sun Sign based personality chart, the second is the Rising Sign based soul Triple Sign Ray Correspondences: horoscope, and the third is the polar opposite 1. Sun Sign: Personality ray. (to the Sun Sign) chart. Below we discuss the esoteric astrological technique, method and 2. Rising Sign: Soul ray. process of superimposition of these three hor- 3. Opposite Sign: Monadic ray. oscopes. The Three Stages of the Path: In the Rising Sign based horoscope the higher Stage I: Sun Sign. Individuation. Personality and newer soul orientation and the embryonic Integration. reorganized inner life will be noted and the soul purpose studied. In the Sun Sign horo- Stage II: Rising Sign. Soul fusion. Initiation. scope the outer personality life and its con- Stage III: Opposite Sign. Monadic Synthesis. formity or non-conformity to the inner subjec- Identification. tive soul conditions will be the subject of psychological attention. The Opposite Sign Mo- Triple sign Meditation nadic chart, known as “the “Sign of Comple- tion” indicates a phase of the Monadic Will. ur unique individual zodiacal triangle This sign conveys and embodies the energy of O composed of our Sun, Rising and Oppo- the consummating Life purpose. It leads to site Sign configuration indicates an empower- fulfillment. ing way to both align with and strengthen our personality opportunity, soul meaning and life Let’s look now at the esoteric process of su- purpose. In our individual meditation we first perimposition and how we superimpose the learn to evoke the energy of our Rising Sign planets and signs over each other in each one and set-up a relation between it and our Sun of the three horoscopes. Sign. In the more advanced second phase of the zodiacal meditation process we then pro- The Technique of ceed to learn how to invoke response from our Superimposition polar Opposite Sign and then, ultimately fuse he objective and purpose of the esoteric its concealed energy with the already blended T astrological technique of superimposition potency of our Sun Sign and Rising Sign. The is to bring the subjective potencies of the Ris- result will be the dynamic evocation of a ma- ing Sign into fuller expression in the life of jor phase of our Monadic Will and highest the personality via the Sun Sign and later the spiritual Purpose. Opposite Sign. It might here be simply stated It is necessary for us to grasp the fact that the that the student of superimposition must cast spiritual will is not what we have ordinarily the Sun Sign horoscope and understand how supposed, but is a definite type of energy – this conditions his personality. Keep in mind; the highest present in our planetary life. To the Sun Sign chart with its 12 Arms is the truly spiritually profit by these exercises we field of expression of the personality ray. The must appreciate this fact and strive for the disciple must then cast the Rising Sign horo- intuitive perception of truth. But, in the final scope and seek to realize the potency of the analysis, it is in the intent and in the one- soul ray via the Ascendant and the 12 Arms of pointed concentration of their use, coupled the soul chart. It is paramount to grasp the fact with selfless service to humanity that we will that the Rising Sign chart’s energy produces

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 57 The Esoteric Quarterly the ensuing conflict in the spiritual life; finally to the whole range of vibrations; charts the Monadic Sign chart is set-up based on the will then be set up which will be called Opposite Sign. The 12 Arms of this chart in- “charts of the crosses” and not simply indicate the path to ultimate fusion, synthesis, dications of planetary influences in the consummation and fulfillment. The esoteric twelve houses.11 astrological Technique of Superimposition In the key astrological references enumerated involves setting up these three respective below, the Tibetan outlines the meaning of the whole sign horoscopes and interrelating them Sun Sign and Rising Sign and then outlines on the three different levels. the techniques of superimposition between the Before continuing this commentary let us look personality and the soul horoscopes. more closely at the Tibetan’s teaching on su- Ordinary humanity is ruled by the exoteric perimposition and the methodology em- planets; advanced humanity, disciples and ployed. Here is a very important reference to initiates by the esoteric planets. the personality and soul horoscopes of a disciple and the process of superimposition. 1. The Sun Sign - with the exoteric planetary rulers - rules the personality, indicates The Masters do not study the charts of or- inheritance and equipment and is a sum- dinary undeveloped man. There is no prof- mation of that which has been, thus it in so doing. This involves again the providing the background. study of the two horoscopes of the disciple under inspection - one of the soul and the 2. The Rising Sign, with the esoteric other of the personality. Again the process planetary rulers, indicates soul purpose and of superimposition is utilized. In one horo- points the way to the future, offering op- scope, the new orientation and the embry- portunity. onic reorganized inner life will be noted 3. The horoscope, built around the Sun and studied, and in the other the outer life Sign, is adequate for ordinary humanity. and its conformity or nonconformity to in- The exoteric planets rule and the man lives ner conditions will be the subject of atten- within the limitations of the twelve houses. tion. Thus the life pattern will emerge, possibilities will be indicated, problems 4. The horoscope built up around the Ris- will disappear, and the immediate next ing Sign, with the esoteric planets ruling, step will clearly show forth.10 will convey the destiny of the disciple. As I told you, the disciple will later be re- The “study of the two horoscopes” referred to sponding to the influences of the twelve above by the Tibetan are the Sun Sign and the arms of the three Crosses as they pour their Rising Sign charts. The reference below indi- influences through the esoteric planetary cates the new circle of esoteric rulers to the 12 rulers via the twelve houses. signs he had given in Esoteric Astrology. He also makes a very important statement here 5. The Sun Sign, governed by the ruling regarding charts based on the 12 arms of the esoteric planets and the Rising Sign gov- three crosses. erned also by the esoteric planets, can both be used in casting the horoscope of the ini- The horoscope will be cast eventually on tiate; when superimposed upon each other, the basis of the soul ray, and then the zodi- the outer life of the initiate in the three acal signs which govern the activities and worlds and the inner life of subjective real- the influence of the present group of plane- ization will appear. This mode of superim- tary Rulers will be considerably lessened. position will be a feature of the new as- New planetary potencies (conveying zodi- trology. acal energies) will control and take prece- dence of the old ones, thus putting the man 6. When the Sun Sign, with the exoteric in touch with different forces. Finally the rulers, is worked out in a chart, the Rising time will come when he will be sensitive Sign with the esoteric rulers is also worked

out and the two are superimposed upon 7. The horoscope built up around the Sun each other, the problem of the disciple in Sign, the horoscope built up around the Rising any one incarnation will appear. Sign and the Monadic Sign chart are cast or drawn up as three separate charts. The three If these statements are added to the three I distinct (whole sign) horoscopes are first indi- earlier gave you, you will have twelve vidually studied in context of the soul and suggestions as to the lines along which personality and monadic rays of the disciple. new astrological investigation can run, The 12 Arms of each of the three Horoscopes providing proof of the accuracy of astro- are brought into relation with each other logical deduction and the guarantee of the through the Technique of Superimposition. truth of what I tell you.12 8. It is essential to framework the technique Just below I have given 15 key points which of superimposition in light of and in context briefly overview the principles, summarize of and extend the process of Sun Sign and Rising a. The psychological process of personal- Sign superimposition to the Opposite Sign ity integration under the ray of the per- chart and the circle of Hierarchical planetary sonality and the Sun Sign chart. rulers. They are as follows: b. The soul/personality fusion process 1. The Sun Sign horoscope is declarative of under the control of the ray of the soul the outer material circumstance, physical en- and the Rising Sign chart. vironment and personal setting of the disciple. c. The monadic ray synthesis process un- 2. The Rising Sign chart declarative of the der the control of the Monadic Sign disciple’s inner subjective world and his soul chart. ray endowments. 9. The superimposition process falls into 3. The Monadic Sign chart is declarative of three major stages, the Path of Probation, the some phase of Monadic Will. Path of Discipleship and the Path of Initiation. In the first case, we superimpose the esoteric 4. The ray of the personality is the ruler of planetary rulers of the 12 Arms of the Rising the Sun Sign chart. The 12 arms of the Sun Sign chart over the exoteric planetary rulers of Sign chart are the field of expression of the the 12 Arms of the Sun Sign chart. In the se- personality ray. The personality ray governs cond, we superimpose the esoteric rulers of the integration process of the threefold man, the Rising Sign chart over the esoteric rulers i.e., mind, emotions and body, into an intelli- of the Sun Sign chart. In the third we use the gently coordinated and functioning unit. Hierarchical rulers of the Opposite Sign chart 5. The ray of the soul is the ruler of the Ris- superimposing them above the esoteric rulers ing Sign chart. The 12 Arms of the Rising of the Rising and Sun Sign horoscopes. Sign chart are the field of expression for the 10. Upon the path of discipleship the two cir- soul ray. The soul ray governs the cles of planetary rulers of the 12 Arms of the soul/personality fusion process. This process two charts are placed one on top of the other begins after the initial stage of personality and their dual influences are eventually con- growth, development and the triple integration sciously appropriated and sensitively regis- is relatively complete. tered. Keep in mind; as the soul ray waxes in 6. The ray of the Monad is the ruler of the strength, the forces of the outer or exoteric Monadic Sign chart. The 12 Arms of the Op- rulers of the 12 Arms of the Sun Sign chart posite Sign Chart are the field of expression are not negated in the superimposition process for the ray of the Monad. It governs the de- but supplemented, and enhanced by the mag- velopment of Triadic consciousness produc- netic energies of the circle of the 12 esoteric ing Monadic/Personality Unit synthesis. planetary rulers of the Rising Sign chart.

11. Eventually, the respective esoteric rulers dowment of the chief features and characteris- completely govern the affairs of the 12 Arms tics (active and recessive) of the threefold of the horoscope. In the interim, naturally mental, emotional and physical equipment. The quality of the energy and the nature of the conflict supervenes in each one of the 12 forces to be manipulated during life are indi- Arms of the chart between the exoteric and cated to the soul in this way. The Sun Sign the esoteric planetary ruler until harmoniza- provides a summation (past lives) of that tion, coordination, and synchronicity of dual which has been forged through previous in- resonate force is attained. carnations, thus providing the personality 12. The disciple’s initial struggles and tests in background. The Sun Sign horoscope indi- each one of the 12 Arms of his horoscope is cates the present problem, sets the pace or best demonstrated and seen in light of this tempo of the physical life. It embodies the process of esoteric/exoteric supplementation quality of the personality. Picking up the un- of the old planetary forces with the new broken thread of many lifetime experiences planetary energies. Simply put, his task in where it left it, and starting with the same type each one of the 12 Arms is to attain the reso- of energy and the peculiar equipment with nance of the esoteric ruler and bring it in to which it passed away in the previous incarna- vital life expression via the exoteric ruler. tion, the nature of the forces to be manipulat- 13. The degree to which the energies of the ed during one particular incarnation are indi- esoteric and the exoteric rulers have been con- cated to the soul by the Sun Sign. We can see sciously appropriated, registered and fused that the Sun Sign indicates the psychological indicates the degree of personality and soul integration already achieved of the present fusion. point of evolution of the soul qualities, the present available equipment, the present life 14. The superimposition of the esoteric plan- quality and the immediately possible group etary rulers over the esoteric planetary rulers relations. in the Sun Sign and Rising Sign charts of the initiate do not indicate his life problems. It The first step is to familiarize yourself with refers to the fact that the conditioning energies the qualities, nature and objectives of your are the esoteric and not the exoteric in both Sun Sign and appreciate the nature of the ap- charts. It indicates that the initiate is a soul- paratus and equipment with which you have infused personality and has attained conscious been provided by your soul and grasp both the soul control on the physical plane. good and bad aspects with which you must deal. You need to determine the nature of 15. The superimposition of the hierarchical your present personality ray in relation to your rulers of the Monadic Sign chart over the eso- Sun Sign and consider how it conditions your teric rulers of the Rising Sign chart indicates daily life. In this manner you will be able to the conditioning energies are monadic and not become aware of your life problem, of your soul. It indicates the initiate is completing a immediate objectives, of your assets and of phase of Monadic Will. your personality limitations. The Three Horoscopes The Rising Sign Horoscope Sun Sign Horoscope The Rising Sign is placed in the first Arm of the chart. The Rising Sign is termed “the Sun he Sun Sign is placed in the first Arm of of Possibility.” The 12 Arms of the Rising T the horoscope. In the language of esoter- Sign horoscope, with its circle of 12 esoteric ic astrology, the Sun Sign is termed “the Sun planetary rulers, indicate soul purpose, direc- of Probability” because it opens the door to tion and possibility. It points the way to the personality opportunity. The 12 Arms of the future, offering spiritual opportunity. The Ris- Sun Sign chart are governed by the exoteric ing Sign energy will ascend, wax and grow in planetary rulers. The particular birth sign potency and strength during the incarnation. points to personality inheritance and the en-

The subjective energy conveyed through the two.” As he states, the 12 opposites ultimately Rising Sign indicates the nature of the soul become the blended six. force that the incarnated soul is seeking to It should be remembered that - from the wield through the medium of a particular per- angle of the final development of the sonality, possessing certain characteristics. twelve zodiacal potencies - the twelve op- The energy embodied in the Rising Sign, in posites must become the blended six, and other words, is utilized by the soul to stimu- this is brought about by the fusion in con- late its personality into soul responsiveness, sciousness of the polar opposites. Pause thus ultimately working out its purpose and consider this phrasing. The opposites through personality cooperation. eternally remain from the point of view of The second step is to study the nature and at- human reason, but to the initiate whose in- tributes of your Rising Sign. Your task is to tuition is functioning they constitute but ponder upon your soul objectives and goals six great potencies, because he has and link the quality of your soul ray to your achieved “the freedom of the two,” as it is life work. You will come to consciously real- sometimes called. For instance, the Leo ize that you embody in yourself the blended subject who has an initiated consciousness energies of your Sun Sign and the Rising preserves the individuality, developed in Sign. Leo, as well as the universality of Aquari- us; he can function, if he so chooses, as a The Opposite Sign Horoscope fully self-identified individual, yet pos- I would like to take a moment here to briefly sesses simultaneously a fully awakened address the Tibetan’s treatment in his book universal awareness; the same thing can be Esoteric Astrology of the theme of Opposite said of balanced activity and consequent Signs. It has been suggested by some students fusion in all the signs. This analysis consti- that the Tibetan did not make definitive refer- tutes in itself an interesting and far- ence to the polar Opposite Sign (to the Sun reaching field of speculation.14 Sign) as the sign of the Monad. The Monadic Sign is placed in the first arm of Let’s look at what he actually said. The Tibet- the horoscope with the circle of 12 hierar- an writes: chical planetary rulers governing. In the lan- A treatise could be written on the subject guage of esoteric astrology, the Monadic Sign of the relation of the opposites in the zodi- is termed “the Sun of Completion.” It indi- acal circle for they express spirit and mat- cates some definite phase of Monadic Will. It ter and their interrelation, plus the play of points the way to final stage of consummation qualitative energies; they bear witness at and completion upon the Path. In the con- the same time to the fact that these two are sciousness of the initiate, the Sun Sign and its one and are simply the expression of great polar opposite Monadic Sign in the zodiacal mutable, and yet fixed and initiated spir- circle express spirit and matter within and itual Lives.13 their interrelation, plus the play of their qualitative energies. The significance of the polar This reference, in my mind, is definitive. I say Opposite Sign in relation to the Sun Sign this because as the Sun Sign corresponds to bears witness to the fact that the Monad and the personality or matter aspect, its Opposite the personality are ultimately one or a “unit” Sign is stated to correlate to spirit or Monad. in the initiated spiritual Lives. From the angle The interrelationship between spirit and mat- of the initiate his Opposite Sign has become ter is synonymous with the interrelation be- blended with his Sun Sign. This he has tween Monad and personality. He goes on to brought about by the “fusion in conscious- speak later in Esoteric Astrology of the fusion ness” of the polar opposites. As the polar op- of the polar opposites in the consciousness of posite apex sign the electric white light of the the initiate terming it “the freedom of the “Sign of Completion” to speak in symbols,

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 61 The Esoteric Quarterly ultimately obliterates the lights and the lines Rising Sign. These inner subjectively condi- of the lesser dual force (Rising Sign and Sun tioning energies evoke the unexpected and Sign). The lights of the two lesser suns are produce the hastening of the evolutionary lost in the final glory of the One. process and the conscious evolutionary development of the soul life. In the third phase During the third step, therefore, your task is to there is evidenced an increasing response to gain the ability of perception, appropriation the dynamic energies of the Life Aspect that and response to the energy of your monadic are concealed by the Opposite Sign. This ray, conveyed by your Opposite Sign and then phase ultimately con- fuse it with the already summates itself in the blended energy of your [T]he synthesis of the triple highest initiation and at- Sun Sign and Rising forces of the individual tainment. Sign. Your task is the dynamic application of Sun, Rising and Opposite When the soul ray has your monadic energy Sign configuration provide finally succeeded in dom- whose qualities are syn- the conditions which cor- inating itself through su- thesis and the power to perimposition upon the “detach from limita- rectly develop the three personality ray, the will- tion,” the “destruction major aspects of man so to-be is evoked automati- of boundaries,” the abil- that they become true re- cally because the two ity to “perforate the rays now vibrate within ring-pass-not of the flections of the three divine the same magnetic field. blended soul and form aspects or energies in hu- In the language of esoter- and release you into the man manifestation. ic psychology, the stage Universal life.” What is of soul and personality called for is a dynamic application of energy fusion is completed. To begin the final stage in order to affect your liberation from all limi- of the zodiacal meditations you must have tation. first successfully accomplished the task of blending the purified waiting ray of your per- It becomes apparent that the overarching ob- sonality, your matter aspect with your soul jective in the study of the threefold zodiacal ray, the reflection of your highest Monadic meditations is to primarily engage with the Sun. The quality of your personality ruled Sun esoteric astrological study of the purpose, plan Sign, supplemented by the potency of your and process of our individual configuration of Rising Sign is then to be focused by the Sun Sign, Rising Sign and Opposite Sign. Our evoked will and oriented toward (to speak in prime focus is the means whereby our person- symbols) the pure white light of your Monad- ality aspect, consciousness aspect and life as- ic Sun (Life Aspect) visualized in your polar pect are serially and sequentially unfolded and Opposite Sign. expanded; culminating in a definite series of subjective events we term initiations. When When, therefore, the ray of your soul domi- the esoteric astrological formulas are correctly nates the ray of your personality, then and followed, coupled with selfless service to hu- only then, are you in a position to put yourself manity, the sequence of events and the ap- as the acting projecting agent, potently en- pearance of the desired results are inevitable hanced by its union or fusion with the ray of and unavoidable. your lower self. The rays of your three lower personality vehicles will then be quiescent or In the first stage of the Path, the Sun Sign no longer active, while only the basic duality dominates the personality of the individual of your soul and personality will remain, and, and he or she is gradually fitted to respond to once again, with no lesser differentiation. The the soul; the latent possibilities for this life are work of the building of the “rainbow bridge” unfolded. In the second stage there is increas- of Power to the Monad is primarily an activity ing response to the energies, concealed by the

62 Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly, 2012. Fall 2012 of the personality, aided by the soul that by our visualization of our symbol of the eso- evokes a reaction from the Spiritual Triad. On teric planetary ruler of our Rising Sign. The your part, it involves a highly accelerated, planetary symbol of the esoteric ruler of the intense mental activity, and necessitates the Rising Sign was created through study, medi- dynamic power to imagine and to visualize tation, visualization and imagination was lik- and build pictures in mental substance. ened to a chalice. It was intended to hold the Commencing Phase I of the zodiacal medita- magical elixir of our two major rays. Exoteri- tion formula the task is to begin the identifica- cally speaking, the visualized content of our tion process with the qualitative resonance of chalice was to be seen to depict the relation- your Rising Sign potency and the subjective ship between our soul and personality ray as energies of your soul ray. In Phase II of the being transmitted via our Rising Sign and Sun zodiacal meditation formula the task is to Sign. From the esoteric point of view the begin the identification process with the quali- symbol of our chalice actually served to dy- ties of the monadic energies concealed and namically precipitate our incoming soul ray embodied in the sign opposite to your Sun energy and initiate the soul fusion process Sign. The task is then to find within that with the personality ray. which is similar in nature and alike in quality The successful invocation of the esoteric to the energy of your Opposite Sign that planetary ruler presupposed intense activity transmits your monadic ray. on the student’s part as he or she assumed the When initially approaching the theme of the position of the invoking agent. It involved a Monadic Sign of Completion in Phase II, bear persistent application in the will, the focused carefully in mind that we are dealing entirely intention of that will (clearly apprehended in with the Life and Will aspect. Keep in mind the mind) and then a planned outgoing or a the center of the initiate consciousness is in “going forth with one-pointed direction” to- the Will nature, and is no longer in the Love wards the respective esoteric ruler, sign and nature. Activity (Sun Sign force) and love ray energies to be invoked. We were taught (Rising Sign energy) are still present in full that ray evocation involved responsive activi- measure, but the focus of the initiate's atten- ty on the part of the invoked esoteric ruler and tion is in the Spiritual Triad and the Will as- ray energy; this response had to be recognized pect transmitted via the Opposite Sign. as the “invoking agent.” What makes that recognition possible is when we find the suc- Phase I of the zodiacal meditation formula, as cessfully produced dynamic activity of the we know, invokes soul purpose. Phase II of “Will” based on what is called “the presenta- the zodiacal meditation invokes the Life pur- tion of similarities.” pose. Just as Phase I is concerned with the first stage of the building of what is technical- In phase II, the deeply subjective meditative ly termed the lower rainbow bridge, so the task is to engage in an intense interlude of second phase deals with the construction of triadic perception and sensitive response to the higher rainbow bridge of Power that leads the fused energies of your Sun Sign and Ris- to the Monad. Producing a fusion of spirit ing Sign (the soul and the threefold personali- and matter from the angle of the Monad, in ty) and their blending with the monadic ener- the final analysis, Phase II is concerned with gies of your polar Opposite Sign (via the Spir- initiate meditation experiences along with itual Triad). By an act of the highest spiritual high stages of unfoldment that remain impos- will, the student learns to gather these blended sible to any human comprehension outside dual energies within and together pour them that of Those who can function in the three into the polar Opposite Sign or Monadic Sun, worlds of the Spiritual Triad - (atma-buddhi- as the spiritual reservoir of the core dynamic manas). central electric fire and life. In Phase I we learned that our two major ray Conclusion potencies, soul and personality, were covered

he sixfold template for the Science of Therefore, we come up against the need for T Triangles and the zodiacal meditations the approach of the integrated disciple to the are identical. In the study of the paradigmatic practice of the zodiacal meditations because blueprint of the Science of Triangles and its only the disciple responsive to the three focal relationship to the zodiacal meditations the points of constellational energy can under- student must bear in mind the sixfold triangle stand the interplay of his three major rays via template with its two triangles, superior and the three periodical vehicles. This is the case, inferior. This is so because it depicts the in- as has been shown because the meditation terplay of the monadic life, soul energy and formulas are based upon the three basic ener- personality force as these three focus them- gies as archetypically expressed by the supe- selves on the physical plane producing mani- rior triangle in the Science of Triangles: those festation and appearance. of the Sun Sign and those of the sign opposite to the Sun Sign. These three become effective The Superior Triangle: in the expression of the disciple in the three Emanating energy. Monadic Aspect. worlds, only through the medium of service to Evocative energy. Soul Aspect. humanity. We have, therefore, the following technical invocation, evocation and demon- Magnetic energies. Personality Aspect. stration of force: The Inferior Triangle: 1. Opposite Sign Distributing force. 2. Rising Sign Critical force 3. Sun Sign Receptive force 4. Esoteric Planet The Zodiacal Meditation 5. Head Center The Superior Triangle 6. Center in the disciple’s form nature. The Opposite sign. Monadic Aspect. A phrase in The Old Commentary is here ex- planatory: The Rising sign. Soul Aspect. When that which is above the horizon, the The Sun Sign. Personality Aspect. boundary, becomes the guiding light, the The Inferior Path runs clear from the highest to the lowest and lo, the three are one. And then The esoteric planetary ruler of the Rising the little two of the lower system are lost Sign. in the final glory. The planet disappears. The Head Center. Its lowest reflection disappears and only the triple sun is seen.15 One of the seven centers ruled by a corresponding sacred planet. The overshadowing triangle of “Triple Suns” is the factor which produces by its flow into These six influences are responsible for the the inferior or secondary triangle definite epi- development of the spiritual consciousness of sodes of initiation in the life of the disci- the disciple and therefore with the three stages ple. The three types of constellation energy upon the Path of Return. The task of the dis- emanating from the Triple Suns proceed with: ciple is to express in himself an integrated resemblance of the three aspects within him- The evocative energizing of the lower or sec- self through the blending of the six energies. ondary triangle. Until we carefully grasp the underlying syn- 1. Pour down into the reflected triangle via the thesis we will not be able to grasp the simple esoteric planet into evoked expression onto ABC’s of the Tibetan’s zodiacal meditations. the physical plane by way of the head center

64 Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly, 2012. Fall 2012 and the center in the disciple’s form nature. into the fifth kingdom of souls. Ultimately, it 2. Produce appearance, quality and activity as is through the six blended energies that the defined by the three major Rays of the Disci- love and beneficence of the Monad expresses ple. Itself and brings about the needed changes for expression. The disciple’s onward-moving 3. Form a triple reservoir of descending and spiritual consciousness through initiation and balancing ray energies from the three periodi- rainbow bridge building is brought into the cal vehicles. required state of inclusiveness and identifica- The final stages of the building of the tion with the Whole. antahkarana by the initiate is an aspect of the completion of the two triangles of the Zodia- 1 cal Meditation’s within himself and the two From the Zodiacal Meditations, an unpublished paper given to Alice A. Bailey in 1953, by the major phases or stages of the process which Tibetan Master Djwhal Khul, 12. produce the major crises of the higher initia- 2 Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology (New tions. The sixfold Triangle - subjective and York, NY: Lucis Trust, 1951), 498. objective - is completed. It gives us an indi- 3 Zodiacal Meditations, 2. cation of which three constellational energies 4 Ibid., 3. transmitted through their corresponding signs 5 Ibid., 2. to the respective etheric center within the 6 Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, 63. 7 body of the disciple are of paramount signifi- Ibid., 480. 8 Ibid., 516. cance as they are primarily related to the un- 9 foldment of the higher consciousness and ini- Ibid., 478. 10 Ibid., 60. tiation. The constellation energy playing upon 11 Ibid., 90. the Monad of the disciple via the Opposite 12 Ibid., 513-514. Sign will, therefore, have a steadily increasing 13 Ibid., 183. effect upon the Path of Initiation. In the final 14 Ibid., 347-348. analysis, the six energies enable the disciple 15 Zodiacal Meditations, 9. to escape out of the fourth human kingdom

Fall 2012

Great Esotericists of the Past Tallapragada Subba Row

allapragada Subba Row was born on July id book. But this mystical side of his char- T 6, 1856 into a family of Brahmins at Ka- acter he showed only to kindred souls. kinada in Andhra Pradesh State, India. (His What may seem strange to some is the fact name is sometimes spelled Rao, and probably that, while he was obedient as a child to his that was the original form of the family name.) mother in worldly affairs, he was strangely His grandfather was an administrator in the reticent to her, as he was to all his relatives district court, and his maternal uncle was a and ordinary acquaintances, about spiritual high government official in the service of the matters.2 Raja of Pithapuram. When he was six months old his father died, and the young Tallapragada Esoteric Teachings was raised by the uncle. T. Subba Row seemed to have an innate knowledge of the ancient scriptures of India. That On a visit to Benares with his mother, four- knowledge and his deep understanding of Ve- teen-year-old Tallapragada met a yogi who initiated him into Brahmavidya, a form of yoga dantic philosophy helped Blavatsky make the transition from her western esoteric orienta- based on the Upanishads. For the rest of his tion, evident in Isis Unveiled, to the strong life Subba Row performed the prescribed daily eastern orientation that took shape in her mon- prayers and meditations. umental work The Secret Doctrine. Subba Row T. Subba Row showed no particular talents in told his mother that Blavatsky was a “great high school, but he soon blossomed academi- Yogi, and that he had seen many strange phe- cally. He rose to the top of his class at Madras nomena in her presence.”3 For her part, Blavat- Presidency College, where he earned a Bache- sky considered him to have greater occult lor of Arts degree in 1876. After passing the knowledge than herself. Bachelor of Law examination Subba Row joined a respected law firm and practiced for A rift developed after Blavatsky asked Subba Row to review her manuscript of The Secret ten years. He could probably have become a Doctrine. He found the work “diffuse and cha- prominent attorney or politician had he not otic” and did not feel able to evaluate it. But he developed “an irresistible attraction” to philos- 1 also questioned the wisdom of revealing so ophy. much occult knowledge to the masses. Blavat- Helena Blavatsky, along with Henry Olcott, sky left Adyar in March 1885 and completed president of the Theosophical Society, arrived The Secret Doctrine in Europe; it was pub- in India in 1878, initially settling in Bombay. lished three years later. She died in May 1891.4 Subba Row corresponded with Blavatsky early Despite their differences, Blavatsky never wa- in 1882 and persuaded the group to move the vered in her respect for Subba Row’s work. Society’s headquarters to Adyar, near Madras, She commented: “We know of no better au- on the southeast coast of India. He became the thority in India in anything concerning the eso- Society’s secretary, served on the General tericism of the Advaita Philosophy.” Council, and also served for a while as editor T. Subba Row contributed articles to The The- of The Theosophist. Olcott commented on osophist and gave lectures to the expanding Subba Row’s personal style: group of Theosophists at Adyar. Copies of his As a conversationalist he was most brilliant articles, transcripts of the lectures, and some and interesting; an afternoon’s sitting with unpublished material were collected into his him was as edifying as the reading of a sol- Esoteric Writings. The unpublished material,

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 67 The Esoteric Quarterly based on notes taken by students, came from Subba Row was familiar with the work of An- private instruction he gave to a select group of na Kingsford and her colleague Edward Mait- Theosophists, which included Charles Lead- land, whose work was grounded in the western beater and Alfred Cooper-Oakley. traditions of Hermeticism and Rosicrucianism. For a short time, Kingsford was president of Much of Subba Row’s work concerned Hindu- the London Lodge of the Theosophical Socie- ism and Buddhism. For example, he contrasted ty. A dispute ensued with notions of the septenary Sinnett on a number of constitution of man, The First Ray, according to issues, including the reli- discussed by Arthur P. Subba Row, sees God as a ability of Blavatsky’s Sinnett and which be- king, demanding worship; sources. She left the Soci- came the standard The- ety and, with Maitland, osophical model, with he linked it with Brahman- founded the Hermetic the four-body model ism and the Vedas. The Se- Society, a forerunner of discussed in Taraka the Order of the Golden Raja Yoga. While he cond Ray sees God as a Dawn. showed that Sinnett’s teacher and is linked with description was con- Buddhism. He also de- The Seven Rays sistent with Vedantic thought, he considered clared: “There is a Ray spe- Of particular interest is Subba Row’s involve- the fourfold description cially adapted to women; it ment in early teachings on “the best and the sim- 8 5 is sometimes called the the seven rays. Lead- plest.” Interestingly, beater studied under Sub- western esoteric sys- “body of love.” Its Logos is tems, like Rosicrucian- ba Row from the time he rather a female than a male. arrived in Adyar in 1884. ism, also favor a four- He described an incident when the Tibetan fold model of the human constitution. Master Djwhal Khul appeared to him, Cooper- Leadbeater, an influential member of the The- Oakley, and “a Hindu brother” at the Theo- osophical Society, and Annie Besant, the soci- sophical Society headquarters in Adyar.9 The ety’s second president, cited a comment on the Hindu brother is believed to have been Subba skin color of the human root races, probably Row. During the visitation, the Tibetan gave made during the private instructional sessions: them a table of the seven rays, which, decades “T. Subba Rao [sic] distinguished the Lemu- later, found its way into books by Leadbeater rians as blue-black, the Atlanteans as red- and his secretary Ernest Wood. That table is yellow, and the Aryans as brown-white.”6 believed to have been the first definitive in- T. Subba Row demonstrated considerable formation on the rays revealed to humanity in knowledge of western esotericism. He was modern times. familiar with Egyptian and Greek mythology T. Subba Row gave a series of lectures at and the writings attributed to Hermes Trisme- Adyar in 1886 to his select group of Theoso- gistus. In one article he discussed the claims phists. The lectures wove references to the made concerning the goddess Isis: seven rays into many aspects of traditional Isis is the mother of the Logos manifested Hindu and Buddhist thought. He spoke as if in the Cosmos, as the soul is the Virgin the rays and their qualities required no particu- mother of the regenerate spirit; Isis is the lar explanation. We do not know how much mother of Adonais, while the incarnated those in the audience understood, but perhaps soul is the mother of Christ; but the former the information provided by the Tibetan had alone is entitled to be called the Cosmic already been discussed among them. Virgin. . . . [I]n the discourse of the Cosmic Subba Row declared that the seven rays “rep- Virgin to her divine son, we find a general resent the outflowing energy from the seven account of cosmic evolution.7 centers of force in the Logos.”10 He discussed

68 Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly, 2012. Fall 2012 the characteristics expressed by logoi and written by a fellow of the Theosophical Socie- adepts as a result of their rays; and he stressed ty. The criteria were revised in 1891 to honor that “Every Initiate must find his own Ray.”11 anyone who made the most valuable contribu- He singled out the first two rays as being of tion of the year to Theosophical Literature. special importance: “[I]t is only the first two The first award under the new rules was made Rays that have ever given rise to universal re- to Besant four years later. Later recipients in- ligions.” He added: “In the case of the other cluded Rudolf Steiner, Jiddu Krishnamurti, five Rays, a man is merely concerned with his Ernest Wood, and Geoffrey Hodson. own particular Ray, but in the case of these first two every Adept will have to come under 12 the influence of every other Ray.” 1 Source: Theosophical Society, Adyar, India. The First Ray, according to Subba Row, sees Online: http://www.ts-adyar.org/content/t- subba-row-1856-1890. (Accessed June 12, God as a king, demanding worship; he linked it 2012.) with Brahmanism and the Vedas. The Second 2 Henry S. Olcott, “Death” The Theosophist, July Ray sees God as a teacher and is linked with 1890, 578. 13 Buddhism. He also declared: “There is a Ray 3 Ibid. specially adapted to women; it is sometimes 4 Josephine Ransom, A Short History of the Theo- called the “body of love.” Its Logos is rather a sophical Society: 1875–1937 (Adyar, India: female than a male. By contrast, he continued: Theosophical Publishing House, 1938), 222. 5 “I do not think there will even be a female T. Subba Row, “Buddhism and Ancient Wis- Adept of the First Ray, because it belongs en- dom-Religion,” Esoteric Writings ( Adyar, In- tirely to the positive pole.”14 dia: Theosophical Publishing House, 1895), 58- 59. Subba Row was referring to the ancient sys- Subba Row did not cite specific sources to tem of Taraka Raja Yoga, not to modern sys- support his comments on the rays, and his tems of the same name. 6 characteristic response to questions was that he Annie W. Besant and Charles W. Leadbeater, “dared not reveal any of the secrets revealed to Man: Whence, How and Wither (Adyar India: Theosophical Publishing House,1913/1971), him by his Guru.” But he did indicate that 114. some knowledge of the rays came from antiq- 7 T. Subba Row, “The Virgin of the World,” Eso- uity: “Ideas connected with the First Ray seem teric Writings, 230. to have crept into Chinese Buddhism before 8 John F. Nash, “The Seven Rays: A Case Study 15 the time of Gautama.” in the Dissemination of Esoteric Knowledge,” The Esoteric Quarterly, Winter 2007, 33-50. Legacy 9 Charles W. Leadbeater, The Masters and the Tallapragada Subba Row succumbed to a mys- Path (Adyar, India: Theosophical Publishing House, 1925/1953), 263. terious illness and passed away, shortly before 10 his thirty-fourth birthday, on June 24, 1890. T. Subba Row, “Occultism of Southern India,” Esoteric Writings (Adyar, India: Theosophical Blavatsky outlived him by nine months. Short- Publishing House, 1895), 108. ly before his death Subba Row asked his wife 11 T. Subba Row, “Incarnation and Religions,” to adopt a son, since their marriage had not Esoteric Writings, 537. produced offspring. Olcott eulogized him as a 12 T. Subba Row, “First Ray in Buddhism,” Eso- “brilliant young Indian mystical philosopher... teric Writings, 527 an intellectual phenomenon.”16 Subba Row is 13 Subba Row, “Incarnation and Religions,” 536. remembered as one of the greatest of the early 14 T. Subba Row, “Women Adepts,” Esoteric Writings, 568. Theosophists and a key figure in the develop- 15 ment of the Society. Despite his reticence in Subba Row, “First Ray in Buddhism,” 526. sharing esoteric knowledge, he contributed That comment raises eyebrows. Gautama is cus- tomarily viewed as the founder of Buddhism, much to the dissemination of traditional Hindu which only later spread from India to China. teachings to a western audience. 16 Olcott, The Theosophist, 576. The Subba Row Medal was established in Contributed by John F. Nash 1883 as an annual award for the best essay

Modern Science and Its Connection with Ancient Spiritual Traditions

David C. Galloway

Abstract primitive superstition or evidence of intellectual and emotional immaturity, simply has no odern science, heavily influenced by the place in the reductionist world-view of materi- M Newtonian-Cartesian paradigm, consid- alistic science. Classical science is limited in ers matter to be inert and to lack an animating its scope and therefore hindered the growth of force. This model collapses at the subatomic human knowledge. level where quantum behavior comes into play. Classical science is also limited in its ability to Quantum events are characterized in terms of explain natural phenomena on the subatomic probabilities. The indeterminate nature of level. Developments in physics over the last quantum theory has substantial theological and ninety years, especially in the area of particle philosophical implications. Mechanistic and physics, have demonstrated that the original materialistic science fails to account for a model is flawed. Subatomic particles can ex- number of well-documented phenomena. Spir- hibit either wave particles or particle properties itual evolution has occurred with varying pro- depending on the set-up of the experiment. portions of spirit and matter at each state of According to the Heisenberg Uncertainty Prin- development. ciple, the position and momentum of an elec- Challenges to Traditional tron cannot be measured simultaneously due to the observer’s influence on the measurement. Science Thomas S. Kuhn explains the scientific dis- ewtonian-Cartesian science held sway in covery process in his book The Structure of N the West for three centuries. Newton con- Scientific Revolutions (1996).1 A new discov- sidered the Universe to be mechanistic in na- ery creates a new paradigm, opening up a vast ture with matter composed of immutable parti- area for scientists to explore. Those scientists cles known as atoms. René Descartes, the who do not adopt the new paradigm will be French philosopher considered that the Uni- ignored and marginalized, and their view will verse was in the form perceived objectively by eventually disappear. the human observer. Its existence was separate from the process of observation. As part of the new paradigm, quantum theory now incorporates concepts previously associ- The creation of the Universe by the Big Bang ated with mysticism and spiritual science. was seen as a purely random mechanical event without the guidance of a creative intelligence. ______Similarly, life began from a series of chemical About the Author reactions that occurred by chance. Cellular organization and Darwinian evolution by ge- David C. Galloway is currently enrolled in the Eso- netic mutations and natural selection was teric Philosophy Teaching Program at Sancta So- phia Seminary near Tahlequah, OK. Before coming thought to take place by the same process. At a to Sancta Sophia Seminary he spent many years as certain, indefinable stage of the development a chemist working both in industry and in govern- of the brain, consciousness appeared and the ment. He has also taught chemistry courses at the organism became self-aware. Thus it became a college level. product of matter. Religion, considered to be a

Stanislav Grof, editor of Ancient Wisdom and form and behavior of organisms. In the 1970s Modern Science (1984), compares and con- Lawrence Blair and Lyall Watson drew atten- trasts Western science and technology with the tion to the “hundredth monkey phenomenon.” perennial spiritual philosophies of the East.2 Reportedly, when a young female Japanese The chasm that exists between these two monkey learned a new behavior, namely wash- world-views reflects the emphasis that science ing sweet potatoes free of grit in the sea, all places on material existence and concrete ob- other monkeys in her species immediately servations and the im- adopted that behavior on portance Eastern religions Albert Einstein and that island as well as on place on consciousness and Max Planck both be- nearby islands. Evidently, if creative intelligence. The lieved that scientific enough individuals of a par- latter view of existence is ticular species acquire a cer- both transcendent and im- work of the highest cal- tain behavior, then all mem- manent. iber promoted religious bers of that species will exhibit that behavior. The quantum state of a par- feelings and an appre- ticle can influence that of ciation of cosmic order. Research by noted neuro- another particle located a surgeon Karl Pribram indi- considerable distance away. Science for them was a cates that the brain performs Thus the particles illustrate type of spiritual path. parallel calculations based a kind of superluminal con- on holographic principles. nectiveness. Modern scientists such as Fritjof Parapsychological investigators such as Joseph Capra (The Tao of Physics) and David Bohm, B. Rhine, Russell Targ, and Harold Putoff postulate that factors such as intelligence and have conducted detailed scientific studies that consciousness, rather than being a trivial part suggest that phenomena such as telepathy, re- of matter, are in fact, overwhelmingly im- mote viewing, and psychokinesis are real. portant parts of existence. Transpersonal experiences resulting from the ingestion of psychedelic substances as well as Even at scales where classical science is still from certain kinds of psychotherapies also in- applicable, the concept of determinism has dicate that the mechanistic model of science is come under attack. Complexity theory has deficient. Near-death experiences cannot be shown that certain phenomena are unpredicta- explained by conventional mechanistic sci- ble, except in the very short term, even if the ence. People who have been declared clinically current and past states are known in minute dead have come back to life and accurately detail. Moreover, systems can become self- reported conversations that took place in the organizing. Nobel laureate Ilya Prigogine and emergency room. colleagues in Austin, TX and Brussels, Bel- gium have demonstrated in their studies of os- Ravi Ravindra, editor of Science and Spirit3 cillating chemical reactions that entropy can (1991) and author of Science and the Sacred, decrease locally because of the transfer of en- (2002), covers much of the same ground as ergy from the environment. A decrease of en- Grof’s book.4 Ravindra contends, as does Grof, tropy would seem to contradict the Second that traditional science regards matter as essen- Law of Thermodynamics, but that is not in fact tially inert and lacking consciousness and an the case because the chemical reactions do not animating force. Ravindra goes on to state that occur in a closed system. the Newtonian-Cartesian model sees nature as indifferent and even hostile. In human beings Science and the body is the domain of nature and the mind Consciousness the realm of the soul or consciousness. upert Sheldrake, in his well-known theory Ravindra next seeks common ground for sci- R of morphogenetic fields, shows that ence which is the province of reason and reli- mechanistic science does not account for the gion which is the domain of faith. Albert Ein- stein and Max Planck both believed that scien-

Copyright © The Esoteric Quarterly 71 The Esoteric Quarterly tific work of the highest caliber promoted reli- Buddhism, Taoism, Kabbalah, Christian mys- gious feelings and an appreciation of cosmic ticism, Gnosticism, and various forms of yoga. order. Science for them was a type of spiritual Examination of the experiences of outstanding path. For many other scientists, however, mo- scientists performing work of the highest order tivating factors have more to do with self- shows that religious feelings were quite com- seeking and recognition and less to do with mon. Both Albert Einstein and Max Planck religious or spiritual feelings. For Ravindra the reported that their work imbued them with a true reconciliation of science and religion in sense of awe and mystery. Science may then enlightened individuals takes place in the be considered a kind of spiritual path for men mind, heart, and body. He feels that the serious of this type. Ravindra feels that the true fusion seeker needs to ponder the fusion of science of science and religion in enlightened individ- and religion into a comprehensible whole. uals occurs in the mind, heart, and body. The amounts of spirit and matter have varied over Conclusion time at each stage of development. he Newtonian-Cartesian scientific model,

T prevalent in the West, holds that matter is without consciousness or an activating princi- 1 Thomas S. Kuhn, The Structure of Scientific ple. Eastern religions, on the other hand, place Revolutions (Chicago, IL: The University of Chi- cago Press, 1996). great emphasis on consciousness and creative 2 intelligence. The latest developments in the Stanislaf Grof, Editor, Ancient Wisdom and hard sciences as well as in parapsychology and Modern Science (Albany, NY: State University of New York Press, 1984). consciousness research point to a model of the 3 Ravi Ravindra, Editor, Science and Spirit (New Universe and of human nature that is congru- York, NY: Paragon House, 1991). ent with the model postulated by ancient and 4 Ravi Ravindra, Science and the Sacred Eastern spiritual philosophies such as Zen (Wheaton, IL: Quest Books, 2002).

Book Reviews

Essence of the Bhagavad Gita: A Contempo- tation. In this book he shares with us what he rary Guide to Yoga, Meditation and Indian learned in his own attempts to live out the truths Philosophy, by Eknath Easwaran. Blue Moun- he found in the passages of the Gita. He deci- tain Center of Meditation, 2012. ISBN 978-1- phers the message of each passage and shows us 58638-068-7. why the passage matters using examples from his own life. knath Easwaran, founder of the Blue Moun- E tain Center of Meditation, is the author of The main message of the Gita, as is well known, many books on spiritual topics such as medita- is the battle between the personality and the Soul tion, Gandhi, the Dhammapada and the Upani- and the duality of life. So the author begins by shads. He has written other books on the Bhaga- discussing those opposing forces felt within our- vad Gita, notably The Bhagavad Gita for Daily selves and the split in our consciousness be- Living in which he interprets each verse and il- tween the higher Self and lower self and their lustrates how its message can be applied to our opposing goals. This leads to a discussion of the daily lives. nature of reality, the limitation of our five senses, and the need to meditate in order to withdraw This recent book, published posthumously (the from the distractions the senses impose in order author died in 1999), was compiled by his stu- to discover a higher reality. dents according to Easwaran’s instructions from the transcripts of his many talks on the subject of Other chapters discuss themes such as the vari- the Bhagavad Gita and its continued relevance to ous sub-personalities and their opposing desires, living a spiritual life in modern times. the illusion of separateness and gaining wisdom through meditation. The chapters on yoga as a The modern spiritual seeker’s dilemma is no less skill in daily living and healing the unconscious challenging than it was for seekers of an earlier are particularly rich with insights and practical age. In the past gaining spiritual knowledge took techniques. persistence, passion and a long quest in search of hard-to-find wisdom. Today, the modern seeker Then Easwaran takes the long view with chap- has easy access to a confusing array of spiritual ters on death, reincarnation, the journey of evo- ideas, but the question is how do we see the trees lution. In his final chapter he encourages us to for the forest? And once we choose a particular go into battle mode armed with the wisdom path, how do we transform the learning of the gained from applying the truths and techniques head into the wisdom of the heart? How do we of the Gita to our lives. We begin to see that use this information practically to make wise de- nothing external can satisfy us for long, and the cisions and live a more spiritually attuned life? intense desire to know who we really are fuels As the author of this book points out, the Gita is us through this long battle with the lower self. not a set of commandments or rules telling us The Gita, Easwaran says, when applied to our what to do; we have to learn through experience daily lives becomes practical, compassionate how to make the right choices in life in order to psychology. reach the enlightenment we seek. Included, in the book are selections from the The author is well equipped to help us learn and Bhagavad Gita, suggestions for further reading, gain this experience. Easwaran studied the Gita and a glossary of Sanskrit terms. In addition to all his life and actively looked for ways to apply this current volume, Essence of the Upanishads the truths revealed therein to his own life. Thus has just been published, and Essence of the he has a wealth of experience to share with us. Dhammapada and Essence of Yoga are forth- To begin, he says, requires three preliminary coming. steps: hearing (or reading), reflection and medi- Gail Jolley School for Esoteric Studies

Evolutionary Enlightenment: A New Path to come our ego, the “enemy within,” the part of Spiritual Awakening, by Andrew Cohen with ourselves that keeps us invested in our lower Forward by Deepak Chopra. SelectBooks, Inc., selves, our own personal “fears” and “issues,” New York, NY, 2011, 213 pages. our small world of insignificant events. God asks us to align with the Absolute Self, the high- ohen’s new publication, Evolutionary En- er part of ourselves, so that we can reach our lightenment, is a must-read for those who C higher potential and experience our own Evolu- are seeking enlightenment and spiritual truth, tionary Enlightenment. who are looking for their purpose in life, or who see the selfishness and greed that disrupt the To help us reach this goal, Cohen presents 5 beauty and peace of our earth and would like to very helpful tenets, along with detailed explana- help create a more equitable, loving society. tions and supportive comments: This highly acclaimed book presents a strikingly 1) Clarity of Intention. Our intention to new approach to spirituality in an engrossing, evolve must become the most important clear, and convincing manner. Ken Wilber, au- thing in the world to us, and we must, under thor of The Integral Vision, calls it “Truly one of no circumstances, allow inertia, self- the most significant books on spirituality written dishonesty, or anything else to obstruct it. in the postmodern world.” 2) Power of Volition. We must take respon- Cohen begins by redefining God as the evolu- sibility for the consequences of our past, tionary impulse, the creative energy that initiated even if it was very difficult and has left plen- the Big Bang, and that has overseen and guided ty of scars. If we can move beyond the past, the development of our world from nothingness we will be freed-up to take on greater respon- to a beautiful planet populated with complex life sibility in the future. forms, the most highly evolved being ourselves. He asserts that, as residents of this planet the 3) Face Everything and Avoid Nothing. This evolutionary/creative impulse is a part of us, ex- tenet concerns the psychological self- pressed by our impulse to procreate and our feel- protective habit of avoidance. Our ego has ing of exhilaration when we are in the creative developed an image of ourselves, and we au- flow. At the highest level, the evolutionary im- tomatically filter-out everything that doesn’t pulse expresses as our desire to evolve, to find fit. But we must face everything, our best truth and enlightenment – to become more fully and our worse, as well as the best and worst conscious. In Cohen’s words: in humanity. 4) The Process Perspective. Realize that life The energy and intelligence that initiated the is not a personal drama, but that we’re mere- big bang is compelling you, as its own crea- ly a small part of a cosmic process. This real- tion, to evolve. Why? Because to whatever ization is liberating because it helps us take degree you evolve, that very energy and in- an impersonal view of events. telligence evolves also. If that impulse is what God is, in the manifest realm, then God 5) Cosmic Consciousness. When the first 4 evolves through you – through each and eve- tenets have been achieved, we will be aligned ry one of us, as we evolve. When you really with our Authentic Self and our initial self- get this, there’s only one thing left to do: you centered goal to evolve our own conscious- have to get on with it. You have to evolve, ness will become that of evolving conscious- you have to develop, you have to become. ness itself, of evolving humanity as a This is when God’s purpose becomes your “whole.” Without the binding effects of ego, purpose. (p. 47) we will achieve our full potential and creative abilities. Using our talents, we will work God’s purpose, our purpose, is that of evolving with others in a state of egolessness in order in consciousness, i.e., reaching enlightenment. to change the world “from the inside out,” to For this purpose to be realized, we must over- co-create the future.

Evolutionary Enlightenment presents a unique every page. For those who are open to its pow- synthesis of eastern spirituality, science, and the erful message, it could have a life-changing im- transdisciplinary perspective of integral thought. pact. It is at once visionary, inspiring, accessible yet Joan Hoerlein profound, and contains gems for thought on Matthews, North Carolina