Lesepro Bridges

Reading Excerpt from "Bridges" by Aart Jurriaanse

Revised Edition 2001

First published 1978

Please note, that whilst the Author has waived copyright on

the literary content of this book, this waiver does not apply

to the technical production or the right of translation of this book.

South Africa

Cover Design: Peter Krafft, Bad Krozingen, Germany

Cover Painting: “The Seven Spheres” © by Soham Holger Gerull,

Petersberg-Steinhaus, Germany

Published by: in Cooperation with:

Bridges Publishing “Sun Centre”

Hans-Juergen Maurer School of Esoteric Philosophy

P.O. Box 228 5, Almond Drive

79002 Freiburg Somerset West 7130

Germany South Africa

ISBN 978-3-929345-11-7

Building Bridges

May these thoughts contribute towards bridging the gap between man and man, nation and nation, race and race; between the past, the present and the future; between science and religion, religion and religion; between the tangible and the intangible, unconsciousness and consciousness, darkness and light; between the material and the spiritual, the not-self and the Self, the personality, the Soul and the Monad; between man and the Spiritual Hierarchy of Perfected Men and of Angels; and may all these bridges eventually lead to synthesis within the human race and the realisation of the One Humanity, the One Soul, the One Universe and the One Supreme Being.

Contents

INTRODUCTION 17

PART ONE: Man in the Universe

I. SUMMARY 33

II. THE ANCIENT WISDOM 36

III. ALL IS ENERGY 42

1. The Etheric World 48

2. The Seven Rays of Energy 51

IV. THE UNIVERSE 57

V. THE PLANES OF EXISTENCE 64

VI. THE ESSENCE OF LIFE 66

VII. THE KINGDOMS OF NATURE 69

VIII. A RETROSPECTIVE GLANCE OVER THE AGES 78

IX. MAN KNOW THYSELF 86

X. THE CONSTITUTION OF MAN 90

1. The Etheric Body 94

(a) Centres of Energy 97

(b) Carriers of Energy (‘Nadis’) 100

(d) The Spiral or Kundalini Fire 103

(e) The Etheric Web 105

(f) Radiation 105

(g) The Aura 107

2. The Physical Body 109

(a) The Nervous System 111

(b) The Brain 112

(d) The Blood Stream 115

(e) The Senses 117

(f) Pain 118

(g) Sex 120

3. The Astral Body 122

(a) Fear 127

(b) Depression 132

(d) Love 134

(e) Psychic Powers 135

4. The Mental Body 138

(a) The Mind 140

(b) Three Aspects of Mind 141

5. The Personality 143

(a) Defining the Soul 147

(b) The Egoic Lotus 148

(d) Characteristics of the Soul 149

(e) The Problem of Duality 152

(f) Alignment of Soul and Personality 155

(g) Reincarnation (Rebirth) 156

(h) The Soul and Initiation 161

(i) The Thread of Life 163

7. The Monad 164

DIAGRAM A: The Monad 165

(a) The Spiritual Triad 166

(b) The Bridge of Light 167

XI. DEATH 171

1. Withdrawal of the Life Thread 172

2. Life After Death 173

3. Purgatory 174

4. Cremation 175

XII. HUMANITY 177

XIII. THE SPIRITUAL HIERARCHY 184

1. Some General Considerations 184

DIAGRAM B: The Spiritual Hierarchy 187

2. The Supreme Being 190

3. God 191

4. The Solar Logos 192

5. The Planetary Logos 193

6. The Lord of the World 193

(a) Shamballa 195

(b) Shamballa Energy 194

(d) The Hierarchical Plan 200

DIAGRAM C: The Divine Purpose and Plan 201

7. The Hierarchy of Masters 206

DIAGRAM D: The Hierarchy of Masters 208

(a) The Constitution of the Hierarchy 212

(b) The Masters 215

(d) Individual Masters 217

(e) The Externalisation of the Hierarchy 226

8. The Buddha 227

9. The Christ 229

XIV. PLANETARY ETHERIC ENERGY CENTRES 241

XV. CITIES AS SPIRITUAL CENTRES 243

XVI. THE AKASHIC RECORDS 244

XVII. DEVAS AND ELEMENTALS 245

PART TWO: Man on the Path of Life

I. ESOTERIC STUDIES 253

1. The Nature of Esotericism 253

2. The Mystic and the Esotericist 255

3. Esoteric Training 257

4. The Tibetan‘s Teachings 260

5. Esoteric Teachings 262

6. Ritual and Ceremony 265

7. Breathing Exercises 266

II. EDUCATION AND RELIGION 269

1. Education 269

2. Religion 275

(a) Churches, Theology and Dogma 278

(b) New World Religion 281

III. SCIENCE, ECONOMICS AND POLITICS 289

1. Science 289

2. Medical Science 293

(a) Psychology 294

(b) Healing 297

3. Astrology 299

4. Spiritualism 301

5. Schools of Thought 304

6. Economics and Finance 306

(a) Money 309

(b) Capitalism and Labour 311

7. Nationalism, Racialism and Politics 314

IV. GLAMOUR AND ILLUSION 316

1. Glamour 316

2. Illusion 322

V. LIGHT 325

1. Instinct 328

2. Knowledge 328

3. Wisdom 331

4. Understanding 332

5. Intuition 333

6. Illumination 336

VI. THE SCIENCE OF CONTACT AND

COMMUNICATION 337

1. Thought 337

(a) Power of Thought 342

(b) Thought Control 343

(d) Ideas 346

(e) Dreams 349

2. Consciousness 352

(a) Expansion of Consciousness 355

(b) Continuity of Consciousness 357

3. The Science of Impression 357

(a) Impression 358

(b) Inspiration 360

(d) Guidance 363

(e) Telepathy 366

VII. INVOCATION AND EVOCATION 369

1. The Law of Cause and Effect 369

2. Invocation and Evocation 372

(a) Invocative Living 377

(b) The Great Invocation 378

3. Meditation 380

4. Revelation 385

VIII. HUMAN RELATIONSHIPS 389

1. General (Live to let Live) 389

2. Human Shortcomings 391

(a) Selfishness 392

(i) Self-Centredness 392

(ii) Self-pity 393

(iii) Material Desire 394

(iv) Personal Ambition 395

(v) Pride 396

(vi) Crime 397

(vii) Separativeness 397

(viii) War 398

(ix) Pacifism 398

(b) Criticism and Suspicion 399

(d) Fanaticism 403

3. Human Virtues 404

(a) Love 405

(b) Goodwill 407

(d) Sacrifice 413

IX. DISCIPLESHIP 417

1. The Disciple 417

2. Need for Disciples 423

3. Attributes of the Disciple 423

(a) Responsibility 424

(b) Discrimination 425

(d) Humility 428

(e) Simplicity 429

(f) Detachment, Impersonality and Acceptance 430

(g) Serenity 431

(h) Selflessness 432

(i) Courage 432

(j) Perseverance 433

(k) Sharing and Giving 434

(l) Harmlessness 434

(m) Balance and Stability 435

(n) Sense of Humour 436

(o) Solitude 436

(p) Devotion 437

(q) Joy 438

(r) Esoteric Sense 439

(s) Reticence and Silence 440

4. Group Life and Work 440

5. Master and Disciple Relationships 449

X. SERVICE 455

1. Motives for Service 457

2. Field of Service 458

3. Methods of Service 459

4. Money in Service 459

5. Service and Old Age 460

6. Recognition of Service Rendered 461

7. The New Group of World Servers 462

(a) The Birth of the Group 462

(b) Membership of the New Group 463

XI. WHITE AND BLACK MAGIC 468

1. White Magic 468

2. Forces of Light 469

3. The Dark Forces and Black Magic 470

4. Evil 471

XII. SPIRITUALITY 473

1. Material Living 473

2. Spirituality 474

3. Spiritual Man 476

4. Spiritual Development 477

XIII. INITIATION 481

1. The Nature of Initiation 481

2. Preparing for Initiation 483

3. Group Initiation 485

4. The Initiate 487

5. First Initiation 488

6. Second Initiation 492

7. Third Initiation 493

8. Fourth Initiation 496

9. Fifth Initiation 497

10. Higher Evolution 498

XIV. THE KINGDOM OF GOD 499

Afterword 502

APPENDIX:

REFERENCE INDEX 504

Introduction

Universal Principles

These thoughts are not expressed for the East or the West; for people with white, black or yellow skins; for English, Germans, Chinese or Jews; for Roman Catholics or Protestants; for Moslems, Christians or Buddhists; for the religious minded, the agnostic or the scientist; they deal with the basic principles of life and the Laws of Nature, which are applicable to every single human being and therefore also to all of humanity. But neither are these so-called ‘Wisdom Teachings’ limited to the human kingdom – they are also relevant to every other kingdom of nature, such as the mineral, vegetable, animal and spiritual kingdoms. In fact the ‘Ageless –’ or ‘Ancient Wisdom’ teachings are all-inclusive, never ending and perpetually apply to all of Creation … the whole Universe.

The approach that will be followed is objective but leads to subjective and philosophic considerations which are altogether non-denominational viewed from the religious standpoint. These principles are fundamental and can therefore be studied by the occidental or oriental, the devotionally inclined, the mystic, agnostic or scientist. The stage to which the individual can advance will solely depend on personal limitations of intellect, mind and spiritual consciousness but progressive development could eventually lead him far beyond the relatively narrow precincts dealt with in this treatise. Should the envisioned unfoldment not occur during the present life, then it is bound to manifest in the course of some future incarnation. Although these concepts are treated at a relatively simple level, it is realised that with a large percentage of the world population being in an early stage of mental development, this comparatively unsophisticated approach will still be beyond the reach of many. The basic principles can, however, always be satisfactorily interpreted to any individual by appropriate adaptation of these concepts.

The beauty of these tenets is that each person can find his own level of adjustment according to his specific stage of development of intellect, mind and spirit and according to the position he occupies in his particular physical and social environment. Furthermore his subsequent progress, whether fast or slow, will depend purely on himself. There may be the occasional individual who, although accepting these premises, does not have the inclination for further study or development. Should this be the case, there probably will be some sound esoteric reason, even though the man may not be aware of it. Occasionally there will also be those who apparently have reached their ceiling or ‘high-water mark’ of development for a particular life; such an apparently static phase may only prove to be of a temporary nature but in exceptional instances such a condition might remain relatively stable for the duration of that particular life.

On the other hand there is an unlimited scope for study and expansion of consciousness for those who feel the inner urge. As the result of persistent study and meditation, new vistas and spiritual fields of exploration will systematically be revealed before the awakening inner eye of the dedicated aspirant. He will experience growing light and understanding and an ever deepening feeling of love and goodwill towards his fellow men and this will find expression as a growing urge to be of service to his daily associates, his community, humanity as a whole and finally to his Spiritual Leader and thus to contribute towards the realisation of the Divine Plan.

May the thoughts reflected in the following pages serve as an introduction for these aspirants, to be used as a stepping stone in their spiritual development or as a refresher to bring back to the mind that which was already learnt or experienced in some previous existence, thus serving as a bridge leading to the study of more advanced teachings.

Although the principles of the Ageless Wisdom doctrines remain basically unalterable throughout the ages, practically each separate individual, depending on his physical, mental and spiritual constitution, will become aware of different facets of the One Truth. He will attach his own nuances of interpretation to these, depending on the influence of his environment and that intricate combination of forces and energies to which each individual is constantly subjected. The picture he eventually paints will then be coloured by the shades of those aspects which have made the deepest impression on his specific complex of characteristics. It is because of this that it will be found that no two versions of the Truth will ever be identical. This will, however, make no difference to and should actually serve to broaden the outlook of the intuitive and understanding student, who will realise the underlying reasons for this diversity and who will be able to discover the linking and continuous thread of gold running through and connecting all genuine renderings.

The Ever Changing Pattern of the Universe

ENERGY … what a comprehensive term! The whole Universe, all that is manifested, all that has been, is or ever will be, all consists of energy and nothing but energy – ‘free’ energy; energy bound or limited to greater or lesser extent in the myriads of forms and shapes in manifestation; energy temporarily apparently locked up in the densely compacted atoms of minerals; energy in the more diffusely arranged atoms of gaseous substances; inexhaustible streams of energy contained in that invisible, intangible, unrecorded reservoir which man in his ignorance has termed ‘empty space’.

The above is a most clumsy and inadequate description of the all-inclusive energy of which the Universe is comprised and only reflects that infinitesimal fraction of the Whole which the restricted mind and intellect of even highly developed human beings can visualise or conceive. Furthermore the concept of ‘energy’ may be glibly discussed but not even the most highly qualified scientists know what this fundamental power or faculty really is. This mysterious but basic principle underlying all life and manifested existence may be variously described according to its many known qualities and properties and even practically applied in many ways to the benefit (or destruction) of man but for the rest these energies and forces either just have to be accepted for what they are, without undue concern about their hidden and inexplicable origin and quality, or else they can be broadly designated as divine gifts, totally beyond the comprehension of man.

Energy is manifested in a never ending range of qualities, strengths and combinations which man often tries to differentiate by commonly used terms, such as – Spirit, Matter, Life, Light, Electricity, Vitality, Will, Power, Love, Wisdom, Intelligence, Beauty, Knowledge and Idealism. This treatise will in the first instance make a study of various known aspects of these energies, of the extent to which they may be invoked by man and the commensurate response that may be expected. The point that will be stressed, however, is the fact that all energies, whether moving freely through space or whether temporarily confined within the walls of an atom, remain in constant motion. The power determining this movement may be only enough to support the electrons in an atom or otherwise of sufficient potency to guide and support celestial bodies or even whole constellations on their predetermined orbits through the heavens.

One of the consequences of this perpetual but systematic motion of all energy is that no form of creation, nothing on Earth or in the rest of the Universe, ever remains stable. Everything that IS remains in a perpetual state of modification and adaptation and may be classified as being in the stage of:

(a) Involution – during which energies are in the process of being bound or converted into various structures or forms.

(b) Evolution – during which the different created forms are in the process of being altered, adapted and improved, thus to become better suited to ever changing demands, circumstances and environment.

(c) Devolution – the process of breaking down, effected either through sudden changes or otherwise by the progressive dissolution of forms, thereby releasing or liberating energy.

The present stage in human development, together with that of the physical environment in which he has been placed, has only been reached after vast aeons of time stretching utterly beyond man’s conception. But strictly speaking it is incorrect to refer to a ‘present stage’, because a point of status quo is never attained, as the various processes of change continue endlessly. Some of these developments take place so gradually, however, that they are hardly noticeable to the relatively restricted perceptive faculties of the human being. Furthermore it should be remembered that in man these progressive changes occur not only in his physical body but probably even more important are those demonstrated in his more elusive aspects, that is in his emotional, mental and spiritual unfoldment.

The flow of energy does not follow an even tenor but is characterised by pulsations or cycles, exhibiting periods of higher and lower concentration of energy and evoked activity. This can be compared with the process of in- and out-breathing, so typically exemplified in nature by the ebb and flow of the ocean tides, the perpetual sequences of day and night, the annual succession of the seasons and the recurrent birth, death and rebirth of man.

To keep pace with these ever varying and developing conditions exacts severe demands on man’s resourcefulness, versatility, vitality and perseverance, which may lead either to suffering, agony and even destruction or alternatively to the highlights of the expanding consciousness and eventually to spiritual liberation and exaltation.

Humanity is at present experiencing the throes of one of its most radical periods of transition. To enable it to make suitable adjustments and to reap the maximum benefits from evolving conditions, it is essential that man should have a reasonable concept of the energies and forces responsible for these changes. He has been endowed with a reasoning mind which distinguishes him from the animal kingdom and by means of this questing and probing instrument, he has been enabled to effect some influence in the direction of these energies and thus also on the course of his own life and development. Man was never intended to be just an inanimate puppet to be buffeted hither and thither by every chance circumstance or ‘wind of change’.

A brief survey therefore will be made of some of the many energies and forces influencing man’s existence on Earth, to determine what action can be taken to co-operate with the beneficial forces or how to avoid or to counteract the detrimental effects or otherwise how to control and guide such energies in the desired direction.

The Path of Experience

Who and what is Man? What is the sense and purpose of existence? What is Life and where must it all lead? What have I done that I should experience all this suffering? These are only a few of the questions which are daily being asked by thousands throughout the world who are weighed down by heavy burdens, who feel desperate, insecure and uncertain and are consequently searching for deeper values on which their hopes for the future may be founded.

In the following pages an attempt will be made to draw the veils obscuring the mind’s eye slightly apart and thus to throw perhaps a little more light on to a terrain that to many has so far been shrouded in absolute darkness. Although a beam of light may be thrown on the Path that lies ahead and on to the signboard indicating the direction and destination of the road, this is a path which each man must walk on his own – alone and yet not alone, because the man who honestly, sincerely and selflessly strives to serve his fellow man may rest assured that he will always be guided and inspired from subjective levels to ever brighter Light, to a more understanding and inclusive Love and to more profound Wisdom. In the early stages of his development he may, however, remain totally unaware of the helping hands which will constantly serve to protect him and to guide him along his determined Path.

Mankind stands at the portals of a New Age. Bridges with the past are being broken down rapidly and systematically, one after another, usually resulting in stupendous disruption and the upsetting of all that characterised previous generations. Because man as a rule is not ready and prepared for such demolishment, these changes are often accompanied by excessive pain and suffering which may appear unnecessarily severe and merciless. However, have every confidence that humanity’s fate rests in safe and benevolent hands and is being guided by the Lord of the World according to His carefully considered Purpose and Plan.

It should also be realised that nothing in all the Universe ever happens haphazardly. Although the average human being, bound as he is by physical, emotional and mental limitations, may not be able to fathom the reasons for all these changes which for him are so often fraught with distress and misery, there nevertheless must be and actually is adequate justification for each and every happening. Furthermore these apparent adversities must not be seen as a form of chastisement meted out by a discontented Father to His defecting children but merely as the implicit effects of the natural Law of Cause and Effect, combined and co-ordinated with the immutable and to man oft incomprehensible Divine Plan; they may also be regarded as the experiences and lessons of life which actively contribute towards the development and shaping of the character of each individual.

Although man, with the free will with which he has been endowed, is to some extent able to affect the course of events within the elements of time and space and in some instances can therefore either retard or expedite the trend of occurrences as far as these may concern his personal life and conditions, the final issue and destination has been determined by Higher Authority and cannot be modified or deviated by the ‘little wills of men’.

The Tibetan’s Teachings

It should be clearly understood that the thoughts to be expressed are definitely not the product of the writer’s ‘fertile brain’. Neither does he presume to be qualified to proclaim his own teachings. This treatise is merely an attempt at producing an abbreviated and simplified interpretation of the tenets of that profound sage, Djwhal Khul (D.K.) – commonly known as ‘The Tibetan’ – and at sharing his thoughts with those who perhaps may not have access to his complete writings.

The original manuscripts were telepathically dictated to Alice A. Bailey (A.A.B.) who agreed to act as the Tibetan’s amanuensis and who over a period of thirty years, stretching from 1919 to 1949, recorded his directed thoughts. This original rendering was subsequently published progressively in a series of eighteen volumes, comprising a total of nearly 10,000 pages of text. (For a complete list of these books see the Appendix).

It is hoped that the present work may serve as an introduction to esoteric study in general, perhaps leading interested students to a clearer understanding of the more comprehensive and in places rather abstruse original writings.

Actually it is of no importance through which channels these principles are relayed or from what source they originate, as long as the correct message is conveyed to its intended destination – humanity. Come to think of it, from where did the Tibetan obtain all his knowledge? Although he must be regarded as an exalted and refined instrument, he is again merely a channel through which thoughts, knowledge and wisdom, inspired primarily from some higher divine source, have been directed to humanity.

It should also be realised that as these divine inspirational thoughts are being passed down, step by step, from spiritual to material levels, the instruments used for this transference are of ever decreasing quality and become coarser and coarser. It stands to reason that as these channels become cruder and are no longer qualified by true intuition and divine wisdom, that the standard of the teachings will suffer proportionately and that they will thus become relatively distorted. These distortions are, however, not always due to faulty instruments but in many cases adaptations have to be made because the original message or concepts, in their pristine and elevated form, are beyond the understanding of the average, materially oriented human being.

Fundamental Nature of the Philosophies

The principles to be reflected are basically of a philosophic nature and are intended for the average man of intelligence, with the purpose of possibly opening some new vistas of thought and thereby perhaps even a new approach to life. The concepts involved have already proved acceptable to men from all walks of life and an attempt will be made to avoid emotional aspects and as far as possible to retain a rational, logical, impersonal and detached approach.

These views may perhaps lead the unbiased scientist to totally unexpected visions on certain long-standing problems and even to a fresh outlook on certain old and accepted tenets and premises. In some instances this might result in the opening up of vast new vistas and the possibilities for further research. As far as this is concerned there seem to be special opportunities waiting in the fields of electrical energy, light, sound and colour. There also seem to be vast possibilities for exploration of the realms of the invisible and intangible or the so-called etheric world – a field which today has already been tentatively approached and designated as ‘extra sensory perception’ (E.S.P.). When more is known of and closer contact has been established with the etheric realm, a totally new approach will be uncovered to both medical practice and the closely related and rapidly developing science of psychology. But more about this in its proper context.

The man with a religious outlook will also find, once he allows himself to read and think with an open and unprejudiced mind and therefore without being constantly limited and fettered by prescribed dogmatism, that new light will suddenly dawn for him on various problems that have consciously or unconsciously been puzzling him for many years. Dogma with its doctrines may have its uses but when it leads to suppression of free thought and an avoidance of careful and objective consideration and analysis of unsolved problems of the practised religion, then it is certainly indicative of mistakenly applied accents. God has endowed man with an intelligent and reasoning mind and it can surely not be argued that his questing thoughts are meant to be applied to every field of knowledge and all terrains of life except religion – that most important aspect of subjective existence, which should really constitute the background and quality of every conscious being – the spiritual well-being!

There are of course those who actually have so little confidence in their so-called ‘faith’ that they are afraid to discuss their religion, to submit it to the light of reason or to listen to or read about diverging views, as this might lead to doubt and uncertainty. However, a faith that rests on such insecure foundations can surely never be of much use to anyone; religion with its accompanying faith should form the mainstay of life and should in fact represent a raft of safety to which man can cling when he is being swept away by the turbulent currents which daily course through the uncertainties of life and when every other support seems to be failing him.

Remember that life, with its constant processes of development and evolution, can never remain static – there has either to be progress or otherwise retrogression, or devolution is bound to set in. The same assertion is valid in the case of religion. As man’s mind unfolds a growing urge inevitably develops to penetrate deeper into the arcana of the subjective realms – to pierce or at least to lift slightly that dense veil that has up to now obscured his view. And actually the power to obtain more ‘Light on the Path’ is at the disposal of each and every individual. It is only a question of becoming aware of the opportunities and for the urge to arise and to move forward towards the beckoning Light. The degree of success that will eventually crown the aspirant’s efforts will depend on the motives and purposefulness underlying his striving and the perseverance that is maintained.

The basic truths can of course never be altered but at the same time the Absolute Truth will never be fully comprehended by the mind of man while he is still inhibited by physical limitations. What can however be altered, adjusted and expanded, is man’s interpretation of that which is being revealed to him and the subsequent sound application of his findings in his daily living and being. This in turn will lead to a closer approximation to and understanding of the final Truth. These studies should thus help to lead the aspirant to ever expanding horizons and to bridge some of the chasms between illusion and Reality.

Today the average man is more or less fully occupied with his daily range of activities, which vary between wide limits according to his individual qualities, his environment and circumstances and the position he occupies in the human community and the particular aims and objectives to which he aspires. Man’s material concerns, as a rule, engage his attention to such an extent that only a small percentage of human beings are consciously aware of the existence of the subjective worlds which are so intimately associated with the dense physical conditions. To the majority of men the latter still remain the only conscious form of life and existence. The surrounding spiritual world, which is actually closely interwoven and interrelated with the physical is, however, very real and it is only because of man’s limited range of perception that the presence of this more ethereal realm cannot be registered at this stage of his existence.

An attempt will be made to create a picture of the constitution of man; of how the human kingdom links up and is related to the other kingdoms of nature; to indicate how the physical and subjective worlds are closely integrated and associated and how our planet, the Earth, forms part of the solar system, which in turn only represents an atom in the greater whole of the Universe. It will also be indicated that these physical forms which man observes are merely the material or lowest reflection of spiritual Existences or Entities, which are finally synthesized in that inconceivable and indescribable concept – the Supreme Power.

So many human beings plod through life in a daze, unable to fathom something of the meaning and purpose behind it all, instinctively clinging to physical existence because of their fear of ‘death’ and the ‘unknown beyond’ which must inevitably terminate each individual term of life on Earth. Meanwhile in their daily struggle they seem to be experiencing an apparent constant series of reverses, leading to a never ending sequence of either or both physical and mental pain and suffering, which in most cases seems to be relieved by little real pleasure or happiness. In an effort to drown their sorrows or to create some sense of security, confidence or exhilaration, many turn to the use of alcohol; others again avail themselves of narcotics, in this way trying to escape from the daily problems and afflictions but thereby only transferring temporarily to an astral world of glamour and illusion and deferring the day of reckoning when life will have to be faced again with an increased load of tribulations. Still others, especially those just entering the path of life, try to cram in as much pleasure as possible in order to escape from the responsibilities of life. After a phase of such hectic living, many of these youngsters come to accept that this mad hunt after pleasure is but a chimera which in the end leads them nowhere.

It is hoped that a description of some aspects of the subjective realms may serve to make more men aware of this nebulous and undefined terrain which, nevertheless, forms such an intimate, although usually unrealised, part of all human existence and which inevitably has to play such an important and even conscious role in the future development of each and every child of man.

Life’s Problems

When man’s unfolding intellect is afforded the time to ponder on life’s problems, then the following are a few of the challenging questions that are apt to obtrude themselves into the explorative mind:

What is the nature of the Universe; is it circumscribed in any way and if so, where lie its boundaries and to what extent is it consciously, intelligently and methodically planned and controlled? How does our planet, the Earth, fit into this bigger scheme? What role is man supposed to play in this set-up? What is Life and what is its purpose? What happens at death and after death? Is there any form of life hereafter? Should man be immortal, then how does this comply with the fact that the physical body decomposes and disintegrates after death? Is there some form of subjective life and what about ‘heaven’ and ‘hell’? Do our lives consist of just a series of incoherent and fortuitous incidents and circumstances or are we being guided by some subjective Entity towards a specific and planned purpose or objective? Should there be a basic purpose, then there must definitely also exist some Supreme Guiding Power or Deity – where and of what nature is this Deity and how or through what channels does IT function? What are the relationships between this Deity, humanity and the other kingdoms of nature? To what extent can man depend on the guidance of this Deity and to what extent can these sustaining Forces be invoked?

These and many similar questions keep arising in the inquiring mind of the thinker. A thoughtful survey of the human family immediately discloses the never ending diversity between its individual components. Actually no two single members will be found who are identical in all respects. These differences occur within wide limits, not only with regard to the physical appearance and characteristics of individuals, groups and races but also when their emotional, mental and spiritual make-up is taken into consideration, as well as the conditions and environment of their existence.

An unbiased consideration of the widely varying conditions and circumstances under which each of the millions of individuals in the world are living; of the wide disparity that exists in the allocation of material and worldly goods with which they have been favoured; of the varying degree of intelligence with which individuals have been endowed; and finally the extent of spiritual unfoldment that is evinced – all such contemplation must lead the observer to the final choice between either of two premises:

Firstly, if each individual should only be afforded a single life and therefore only a single opportunity of redemption on Earth, as professed by the protagonists and dogmatists of certain religions, then according to human criteria this could only be regarded as a grave form of injustice. Why should some individuals under these circumstances be granted every opportunity in life and others hardly anything at all? No! Impossible. No righteous Father would ever tolerate such a position!

The second inference is that which has been propounded for thousands of years as part of the Ancient Wisdom teachings and seems to be the only logical conclusion that can be arrived at when all available evidence is carefully weighed. This is that all human beings are in a constant state of spiritual evolution towards an eventual common destination but that for various reasons the individuals (souls) composing mankind are at different stages and levels of development. Some are still near the bottom of the ladder, whilst others have already climbed to much higher rungs. This development of the human being is stimulated by the experiences gained during the activities of a physical life on Earth but as a single life would be hopelessly inadequate for all the experiences and lessons that life has to offer and because each individual has to undergo the full range of all possible experiences, each being has to return over and over again to this physical ‘vale of tears’. All this will, however, be dealt with in greater detail and in proper context in the course of the following pages.

The Expanding Consciousness

With regard to the comprehension of many of the subjective principles, an attempt will be made to explain matters as clearly as possible. Those who have the necessary affinity and sensitivity for these studies will, however, soon realise that many of the deeper and esoteric concepts cannot be expressed in human words. Human thought is exploring a field for which, as yet, there exists no adequate language and for the expression of which the exact terms are still lacking. As the student persists, however, his consciousness will gradually expand, until he unexpectedly becomes aware of a new form of discernment – his intuition is awakening and he is conceiving certain subjective and abstruse principles which could never be explained in words.

Most of the tenets under consideration can be approached from several aspects and are consequently being dealt with under different headings. Such apparent repetition in varying context should, however, be seen in true perspective, as it serves to present or clothe the thought in a different garb, thus leading to a clearer understanding of the various facets contained in the principle or truth under examination.

Classification of the Contents

The contents of this book are classified under numerous subject headings, some of which only comprise a brief paragraph. Although it is realised that this system has certain disadvantages and has led to some sacrifice of fluency and facile readability, this practice has notwithstanding been deliberately introduced to contribute towards greater clarity of expression and definition of concepts, which to many readers may prove new, strange and perhaps not readily understandable. This way of classification will also be of assistance to the student who wishes to avail himself of the numerical references given in the “Reference Index”. These references should facilitate the gaining of more complete information on specific subjects from the Tibetan’s teachings.

The intention is certainly not to supply light reading for relaxation but, on the contrary, to provide something for mental stimulation. To many the thoughts expressed and the approach that is being followed with regard to spiritual matters will be something new and a careful study of the relative principles will be required to arrive at a clear understanding of what is involved. It has therefore been felt that lucidity in the presentation of the subject matter is of more importance than the use of a perhaps more flowing arrangement to afford easier reading.

A. J.

Pretoria, April 1978

PART ONE

Man in the Universe

Summary

Contrary to usual procedure, this book is being introduced with a brief survey of what is to follow, since the subject to be dealt with is complicated and comprehensive and the many aspects are so intimately intertwined that it is impossible to start the story with a few simple facts and then gradually to deploy the theme into its broader principles. This means that from the start certain terms and concepts will have to be introduced, which can only be elaborated or explained at a later stage. This might not matter to those already somewhat acquainted with these philosophies but might prove rather confusing to those who have had no previous contact with this line of thought. As the present treatise is intended primarily for the newcomer a brief review of what the subject comprises will enable the student to become somewhat better oriented to a philosophy of life and to points of view which may prove to be a totally new approach to him.

First of all it will be stressed that the whole Universe, with all it embraces, consists of Energy – energy in its myriad forms of manifestation; energy freely moving in space, supporting the celestial bodies and at the same time the carriers of those powers and forces which interrelate everything in the universal system, synthesising it all into the One Whole.

An attempt will be made to give some faint idea of who and what man is, the position he occupies in the overall picture and something of the role he has to fulfil in the Divine Plan. It will be briefly explained how man is constituted of three separate bodies – the physical, the emotional and the mental vehicles, with their functions co-ordinated by the soul. The three ‘material’ bodies are mortal, ‘return to dust’ at death and merely serve for the temporary accommodation of man’s immortal aspect, the soul, during a single span of life. The soul (or Monad) in turn is but a spark of the divine Over-Soul.

The soul is in a process of constant evolution and, for some divine reason incomprehensible to man, it needs physical experience on Earth for its development and it is in order to gain this experience that the soul is reincarnated over and over again, each time into a new body and a fresh set of circumstances and environment, with the purpose of undergoing every possible phase of trial and experience that can be provided by physical life. The real inner conscious man is therefore the soul, a spiritual entity. Death of the physical body is thus not something to be feared and should often even be welcomed, as it only means a change in the state of consciousness and field of activity and a temporary release from physical limitations, till the soul is again ready for the next incarnation.

As the soul gains the required experience, it gradually begins to dominate the physical instrument or personality and step by step guides it to the life of perfection which is the ultimate objective of physical life on Earth. During this process of spiritual evolution the human unit undergoes certain marked expansions of consciousness, which enable him to obtain a deeper awareness and more intimate contact with spiritual levels which previously remained hidden to the uninitiated mind. For the sake of convenience these expansions of awareness are called ‘initiations’.

After the soul has attained perfection on physical levels, there is no further motivation for return to a material body, except perhaps in the case of some specific mission on behalf of humanity. There is, however, no end to spiritual development and after the soul becomes absorbed in its even more exalted reflection, the Monad, its further evolution is continued in spiritual realms. Contrary to commonly entertained views, spiritual life is characterised by intense activity, either on behalf of humanity or otherwise on behalf of one of the sub-human kingdoms.

A brief description will also be given of the constitution of the Spiritual Hierarchy, that is to the extent that the limited human mind can conceive and understand existence on these higher planes and dimensions. It will be explained how the developing spiritual entity, after having gained even deeper consciousness and wisdom in the course of its more exalted activities, eventually reaches the stage known as a Master of Wisdom. These Entities, each in charge of their own group of disciples, are working under direct control of the Master of Masters, the living Christ, who still remains directly and actively concerned with the onerous task of uplifting, guiding and redeeming humanity. A study will be made of the little realised but close relationship between Humanity and the Hierarchy of Masters on the one hand and how this combination is again linked with the Planetary Logos, the Lord of the World.

The brief recapitulation set out above cannot even be regarded as a skeleton or framework of what is to follow. It is merely intended to give the beginner some faint indication of the lines of thought which are to be developed. It should, however, always be remembered that even with the elaboration of somewhat greater detail, these thoughts should only be regarded as a mere introduction to a never ending and ever expanding course of study which will eventually lead the ardent and persistent student, step by step, onto the Path of ever increasing Supernal Light.

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