Are Psychics Real?
Frederick Gimino asked:
If you have ever wondered “are psychics real?” you are not alone. Many people ask them selves this very same question every day. The answer is often not an easy one but for thousands of years, people have turned to psychics, and clairvoyants for love, romance, and life advice. Some say psychics even have the ability to communicate with the spirits of the departed.
However, over the years claims of spiritualism and psychic powers have been so widespread and the reports of its effects so numerous and impressive that it was inevitable that scientists would be attracted to the alleged phenomena. Parapsychology the science that studies these phenomena focused on many areas including telepathy, clairvoyance, hypnotism, spirits, spiritualism, and the history of spiritual manifestations.
Although Parapsychology is still considered a fringe science by many scientists it still merits the attention of renowned educational institutions such as Princeton University and Berkley. Princeton offers the Princeton Engineering Anomalies Research (PEAR) degree and the University of Berkley in California awarded the only American accredited degree in Parapsychology to Jeffery Mishlove in 1980. But in saying this I am putting the cart before the horse.
The pioneers of modern Parapsychology began using the experimental approach to psychic phenomena at Duke University in the 1930s under the direction of Joseph Rhine. Subsequently Karl Zener one of J.Rhines associates developed the world renowned Zener card test for testing ESP abilities using the scientific method. These ESP tests were conducted at Duke University in one of the first Pavlovian conditioning laboratories.
So, whether you believe in psychics, paranormal activity, or spiritualism the fact of the matter is there is currently hard scientific data documenting the anomalous psychic events which occur in the everyday world around us. In addition for thousands of years unexplained phenomena have been documented throughout history. Are millions of people crazy? I think not. I assure you that the spiritual realm does exist and I am not alone in that belief. Many scientists, layman, and spiritualists share the same views about our universe. Even some world renowned physicists speculate the need for more than one dimension to explain life as we know it.
My best advice is to try to keep an open mind and an objective outlook about things that we do not fully understand. that is unless you believe the sole criterion of reality is our limited human ability to quantify, tag, and label it. After all we can not see the wind but we do see the affect it has on the leaves as they blow about. Does this mean wind does not exist just because we cannot see it?
In closing I leave it up to you the reader to decide for your self the answer to the question at hand. But, know this my answer to the question “are psychics real?” is yes. Psychics, psychic abilities, spirits, and ESP are real whether you believe in them or not.
If you have ever wondered “are psychics real?” you are not alone. Many people ask them selves this very same question every day. The answer is often not an easy one but for thousands of years, people have turned to psychics, and clairvoyants for love, romance, and life advice. Some say psychics even have the ability to communicate with the spirits of the departed.
However, over the years claims of spiritualism and psychic powers have been so widespread and the reports of its effects so numerous and impressive that it was inevitable that scientists would be attracted to the alleged phenomena. Parapsychology the science that studies these phenomena focused on many areas including telepathy, clairvoyance, hypnotism, spirits, spiritualism, and the history of spiritual manifestations.
Although Parapsychology is still considered a fringe science by many scientists it still merits the attention of renowned educational institutions such as Princeton University and Berkley. Princeton offers the Princeton Engineering Anomalies Research (PEAR) degree and the University of Berkley in California awarded the only American accredited degree in Parapsychology to Jeffery Mishlove in 1980. But in saying this I am putting the cart before the horse.
The pioneers of modern Parapsychology began using the experimental approach to psychic phenomena at Duke University in the 1930s under the direction of Joseph Rhine. Subsequently Karl Zener one of J.Rhines associates developed the world renowned Zener card test for testing ESP abilities using the scientific method. These ESP tests were conducted at Duke University in one of the first Pavlovian conditioning laboratories.
So, whether you believe in psychics, paranormal activity, or spiritualism the fact of the matter is there is currently hard scientific data documenting the anomalous psychic events which occur in the everyday world around us. In addition for thousands of years unexplained phenomena have been documented throughout history. Are millions of people crazy? I think not. I assure you that the spiritual realm does exist and I am not alone in that belief. Many scientists, layman, and spiritualists share the same views about our universe. Even some world renowned physicists speculate the need for more than one dimension to explain life as we know it.
My best advice is to try to keep an open mind and an objective outlook about things that we do not fully understand. that is unless you believe the sole criterion of reality is our limited human ability to quantify, tag, and label it. After all we can not see the wind but we do see the affect it has on the leaves as they blow about. Does this mean wind does not exist just because we cannot see it?
In closing I leave it up to you the reader to decide for your self the answer to the question at hand. But, know this my answer to the question “are psychics real?” is yes. Psychics, psychic abilities, spirits, and ESP are real whether you believe in them or not.
Psychology – Intriguing Phenomena of the Mind
December 13, 2009 by admin
Filed under Uncategorized
John W. Martin asked:
Psychology – Intriguing Phenomena of the Mind
http://www.yallways.com
Strictly defined, psychology is the study of mental processes and behaviors. Psychologists study everything from interpersonal relationships to unconscious habits of the mind. They also attempt to relate behaviors and thoughts to neurological processes. While most professionals in this field work within the realm of mainstream science, some have adopted a focus on “paranormal psychology,” commonly referred to as parapsychology.
Parapsychology first developed as a field in the 19th century. In 1882, the Society for Psychical Research was founded in London to promote the critical evaluation of paranormal psychic phenomena. Three years later, psychologists in the United States created the American Society for Psychical Research. Both organizations still exist today and continue to conduct prominent research. They are now joined by other interested institutions, like the Parapsychological Association, and sections of major universities.
Parapsychology focuses on several key phenomena. One of the most heavily studied is extrasensory perception (ESP). ESP refers to the ability to garner information without using any of the known physical senses. This can include precognition, telepathy, and clairvoyance. A key method of ESP study has involved sensory-deprivation. When unable to use other sense, subjects are able to test supposed ESP abilities. Results from these so-called “ganzfeld experiments” seem to prove the existence of some ESP phenomena. However, such findings have not been confirmed by the general scientific community.
Some parapsychologists specifically focus on the survival of consciousness beyond the death of a person’s physical body. Most research in this area involves exploration of near-death experiences. These refer to instances where a person has come close to death or been revived after cited as medically deceased. In many such cases, subjects describe an “out of body experience” in which he or she was able to observe the situation from outside their physical self. Other subjects have reported communicating with deceased loved ones or spiritual figures. Today, this phenomenon is widely studied in universities, such as at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and by the International Association for Near-Death Studies.
A more obscure segment of parapsychology is the study of psychokinesis, or the ability of the mind to influence physical matter. Although claims in this area are numerous, scientific study of such phenomena is difficult. One popular method of studying this phenomenon involves using computers as random number generators. A subject is then asked to try and influence the outcome of the device. Some results from these experiments seem to show that a person can influence a random event. Unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to determine whether data is accurate or simply the result of chance success.
Despite some empirical findings, most scientists still consider parapsychology to be a pseudoscience. They do not support supposed experimental findings, and continue to debate the credibility of parapsychologists. However, this has not deterred researchers, and parapsychology continues to be studied by scholars around the world. Some projects have even received government funding and media support. However, more experimental findings are necessary before even a single parapsychology claim can be verified.
Psychology – Intriguing Phenomena of the Mind
http://www.yallways.com
Strictly defined, psychology is the study of mental processes and behaviors. Psychologists study everything from interpersonal relationships to unconscious habits of the mind. They also attempt to relate behaviors and thoughts to neurological processes. While most professionals in this field work within the realm of mainstream science, some have adopted a focus on “paranormal psychology,” commonly referred to as parapsychology.
Parapsychology first developed as a field in the 19th century. In 1882, the Society for Psychical Research was founded in London to promote the critical evaluation of paranormal psychic phenomena. Three years later, psychologists in the United States created the American Society for Psychical Research. Both organizations still exist today and continue to conduct prominent research. They are now joined by other interested institutions, like the Parapsychological Association, and sections of major universities.
Parapsychology focuses on several key phenomena. One of the most heavily studied is extrasensory perception (ESP). ESP refers to the ability to garner information without using any of the known physical senses. This can include precognition, telepathy, and clairvoyance. A key method of ESP study has involved sensory-deprivation. When unable to use other sense, subjects are able to test supposed ESP abilities. Results from these so-called “ganzfeld experiments” seem to prove the existence of some ESP phenomena. However, such findings have not been confirmed by the general scientific community.
Some parapsychologists specifically focus on the survival of consciousness beyond the death of a person’s physical body. Most research in this area involves exploration of near-death experiences. These refer to instances where a person has come close to death or been revived after cited as medically deceased. In many such cases, subjects describe an “out of body experience” in which he or she was able to observe the situation from outside their physical self. Other subjects have reported communicating with deceased loved ones or spiritual figures. Today, this phenomenon is widely studied in universities, such as at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and by the International Association for Near-Death Studies.
A more obscure segment of parapsychology is the study of psychokinesis, or the ability of the mind to influence physical matter. Although claims in this area are numerous, scientific study of such phenomena is difficult. One popular method of studying this phenomenon involves using computers as random number generators. A subject is then asked to try and influence the outcome of the device. Some results from these experiments seem to show that a person can influence a random event. Unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to determine whether data is accurate or simply the result of chance success.
Despite some empirical findings, most scientists still consider parapsychology to be a pseudoscience. They do not support supposed experimental findings, and continue to debate the credibility of parapsychologists. However, this has not deterred researchers, and parapsychology continues to be studied by scholars around the world. Some projects have even received government funding and media support. However, more experimental findings are necessary before even a single parapsychology claim can be verified.
Is Psychic phenomena for real?
November 18, 2009 by admin
Filed under Spirituality
Anthony Cox asked:
Yes it is very real , and it can be split into two basic catagories. The first would the ‘6th sense’ that all human beings and animals possess , the sense of ‘ambience’, or ‘feeling’ , or ‘awareness’, our feeling of ’self’. The sense we have that alerts us to danger, or gives us a feeling of excitement, awe, fear, etc. in certain situations even if there is no other stimulus. Then there is the connection to, and awareness we have of ‘feelings’ and ‘emotions’ from within us. Anyone with a heartbeat will know what I am talking about and can not deny it’s existence. This level of Psychic ability actually accounts for probably 90% of what is passed off as ‘gifts’, where as in truth anyone can develop these senses to quite amazing levels. The belief that a ’sense’ must have an assigned body part is extremely narrow minded and to be honest a little silly.
To be honest, it still amazes me that some people still deny the existence of a ’sixth sense’ when not only does it account for the above examples, but there is a phenomenal amount of Scientific proof ( that is easily accessable with a little effort ) that not only does it exist , but it is trainable. Probably the best and most well known example of masses of controlled Scientific study and evidence, would be the Remote Viewing and Psychological Warfare programs run by practically every World Government, with the most extensive and well known being those conducted by the USA, The former Soviet Union, China, the UK, and Czechoslovakia. These countries have, and continue to spend millions of dollars developing and running these programs. Although there was a ‘debunking’ program run by the CIA in the mid 1990’s in an attempt to take credibility away from some ‘whistle blowers’, Freedom of Information acts in several countries have since permitted huge volumes of research to be released, confirming what many former operatives have said, and then some…
Then we have what could really be called a ’seventh sense’. That which everyone can and does experience to a certain degree at times .That which very young children, and few truly ‘gifted’ adults have to an even greater level of sensitivity. The ability to see / hear / communicate with Spirits. This again is something that while is somewhat harder to ‘prove in a Laboratory’, is certainly very real and has been evidenced since the beginning of human history. I can guarantee that practically all people have had a glimpse of this at times in their lives, but most will choose to brush it off or explain it with ‘logic’, with inner fear being the main reason. Human beings tend to be afraid of that which they either can’t control, or can’t understand. It sometimes amazes me some of the paranormal events that people will explain with ‘logic’ that clearly isn’t doing the job. But this is fine, everyone is entitled to their own beliefs, it is our right to free choice.
Obviously the main protagonists in the campaign to ‘debunk’ the Paranormal are Religions. This is especially hypocritical when their doctrines are often almost entirely based on Paranormal events. As Religion is used as a tool to control others, it is generally in their best interest to try and quash anything that appears to take away some of their power. A Religion should be one that illuminates people and leads to a peaceful and accepting way of life. Not slandering other Religions or other peoples beliefs causing hatred and strife.
Again, the bottom line is freedom of choice. Despite the extensive evidence in favour of the ‘Paranormal’, which outweighs much in some fields of Science and Medicine, people are entitled to believe in what they wish based on their own experience, and should not be persecuted either way.
Peace.
For more information please visit www.spiritentityremoval.com
Yes it is very real , and it can be split into two basic catagories. The first would the ‘6th sense’ that all human beings and animals possess , the sense of ‘ambience’, or ‘feeling’ , or ‘awareness’, our feeling of ’self’. The sense we have that alerts us to danger, or gives us a feeling of excitement, awe, fear, etc. in certain situations even if there is no other stimulus. Then there is the connection to, and awareness we have of ‘feelings’ and ‘emotions’ from within us. Anyone with a heartbeat will know what I am talking about and can not deny it’s existence. This level of Psychic ability actually accounts for probably 90% of what is passed off as ‘gifts’, where as in truth anyone can develop these senses to quite amazing levels. The belief that a ’sense’ must have an assigned body part is extremely narrow minded and to be honest a little silly.
To be honest, it still amazes me that some people still deny the existence of a ’sixth sense’ when not only does it account for the above examples, but there is a phenomenal amount of Scientific proof ( that is easily accessable with a little effort ) that not only does it exist , but it is trainable. Probably the best and most well known example of masses of controlled Scientific study and evidence, would be the Remote Viewing and Psychological Warfare programs run by practically every World Government, with the most extensive and well known being those conducted by the USA, The former Soviet Union, China, the UK, and Czechoslovakia. These countries have, and continue to spend millions of dollars developing and running these programs. Although there was a ‘debunking’ program run by the CIA in the mid 1990’s in an attempt to take credibility away from some ‘whistle blowers’, Freedom of Information acts in several countries have since permitted huge volumes of research to be released, confirming what many former operatives have said, and then some…
Then we have what could really be called a ’seventh sense’. That which everyone can and does experience to a certain degree at times .That which very young children, and few truly ‘gifted’ adults have to an even greater level of sensitivity. The ability to see / hear / communicate with Spirits. This again is something that while is somewhat harder to ‘prove in a Laboratory’, is certainly very real and has been evidenced since the beginning of human history. I can guarantee that practically all people have had a glimpse of this at times in their lives, but most will choose to brush it off or explain it with ‘logic’, with inner fear being the main reason. Human beings tend to be afraid of that which they either can’t control, or can’t understand. It sometimes amazes me some of the paranormal events that people will explain with ‘logic’ that clearly isn’t doing the job. But this is fine, everyone is entitled to their own beliefs, it is our right to free choice.
Obviously the main protagonists in the campaign to ‘debunk’ the Paranormal are Religions. This is especially hypocritical when their doctrines are often almost entirely based on Paranormal events. As Religion is used as a tool to control others, it is generally in their best interest to try and quash anything that appears to take away some of their power. A Religion should be one that illuminates people and leads to a peaceful and accepting way of life. Not slandering other Religions or other peoples beliefs causing hatred and strife.
Again, the bottom line is freedom of choice. Despite the extensive evidence in favour of the ‘Paranormal’, which outweighs much in some fields of Science and Medicine, people are entitled to believe in what they wish based on their own experience, and should not be persecuted either way.
Peace.
For more information please visit www.spiritentityremoval.com
Remote Viewing
November 2, 2009 by admin
Filed under Spirituality
Ernie Fitzpatrick asked:
Our military will be able to rack the enemy with ronot insects by the end of the year. First we had the drones in the sky that couldn’t be seen and now we’re about to have these little robot insects crawling around the floor and even buzzing our neighborhoods. It’s a different form of “remote viewing” than the term originally meant. So, let’s go there.
I believe the Mayans, Sumerians, and other ancient cultures were into remote viewing long before our military came up with the idea. Remote viewing (RV) refers to a procedure through which a person can supposedly gather information on a remote target that is hidden from physical view and typically separated from the viewer at some distance through paranormal means. That’ll lose a lot of people- the word paranormal!
The term was introduced by parapsychologists Russell Targ and Harold Puthoff in 1974.
Remote viewing was popularized in the 1990s, following the declassification of documents related to the Stargate Project, a $20 million dollar U.S. Federal Government sponsored research program to determine the possibility of psychic phenomena, and any potential military application. The program was terminated in 1995, citing a lack of evidence that demonstrated the program had any value to the intelligence community- which means it does have value!
Which means they don’t want the world to have what they think they have.
As with other forms of extra-sensory perception, no claims of remote viewing have been validated by the scientific community. Of course not, Critics have demonstrated that clues inadvertently revealed by researchers explain how purported remote viewers can obtain information on remote viewing locations. The problem is we know people who can do this!
We’re now living in such a time of increased global consciousness that transpersonal actualities, not just possibilities are becoming more and more common. As the world becomes smaller and smaller, as we find cameras on every street corner, and as the universe shrinks, more and more people will get accustomed to knowing more about everything.
Are you ready for that?
Our military will be able to rack the enemy with ronot insects by the end of the year. First we had the drones in the sky that couldn’t be seen and now we’re about to have these little robot insects crawling around the floor and even buzzing our neighborhoods. It’s a different form of “remote viewing” than the term originally meant. So, let’s go there.
I believe the Mayans, Sumerians, and other ancient cultures were into remote viewing long before our military came up with the idea. Remote viewing (RV) refers to a procedure through which a person can supposedly gather information on a remote target that is hidden from physical view and typically separated from the viewer at some distance through paranormal means. That’ll lose a lot of people- the word paranormal!
The term was introduced by parapsychologists Russell Targ and Harold Puthoff in 1974.
Remote viewing was popularized in the 1990s, following the declassification of documents related to the Stargate Project, a $20 million dollar U.S. Federal Government sponsored research program to determine the possibility of psychic phenomena, and any potential military application. The program was terminated in 1995, citing a lack of evidence that demonstrated the program had any value to the intelligence community- which means it does have value!
Which means they don’t want the world to have what they think they have.
As with other forms of extra-sensory perception, no claims of remote viewing have been validated by the scientific community. Of course not, Critics have demonstrated that clues inadvertently revealed by researchers explain how purported remote viewers can obtain information on remote viewing locations. The problem is we know people who can do this!
We’re now living in such a time of increased global consciousness that transpersonal actualities, not just possibilities are becoming more and more common. As the world becomes smaller and smaller, as we find cameras on every street corner, and as the universe shrinks, more and more people will get accustomed to knowing more about everything.
Are you ready for that?
Mystery of the Soul Part 6
Leonard Lee asked:
The many theological hypotheses and theories regarding the survival of consciousness are without a basis from the scientific standpoint. Orthodox science even look askance towards the findings of parapsychology. Accounts such as Near-Death Experience, spontaneous past life recall, hypnotic regressions, Out-of-the-Body Experience, and psychic phenomena in general seemingly point to the immortality of the soul; however, conventional science still find such occurrences inconclusive. Fundamentally, science, however, does not oppose the notion of the existence of the soul or of its immortality; it is at present researching through empirical methods to prove or disprove it. However, it is realized that the phenomenon of the soul does not readily submit to objective analysis. Science realizes the limitations of its instruments in the detection of the existence of the soul.
There is another aspect to immortality and this concerns the physical form. Physical immortality is an ancient belief and is to be found in many cultures. In legends and in tales we find the theme of physical immortality repeatedly. The possibility of its attainment is well believed in among most metaphysicians. There are many highly spiritually developed yogis who are said to have reached the state of physical immortality. We personally possess the secret teachings that according to our preceptors in metaphysics, allow one to acquire immortality not only of the soul, but of the physical body as well–at least, it extends man’s life-span way beyond the norm.
In Taoism spiritual and physical immortality are both given careful consideration. Regarding physical immortality, there are many alchemical formulas supposed to immortalize the material body. Those who achieve physical immortality are called hsien. To the ignorant these alchemical formulas are supposedly made out of mineral or herbal substances; but to the knowledgeable, they refer to the internal processes of chi or energy. The methods for attaining spiritual immortality is associated with the spiritual realization of Tao, the Absolute, the “Mother,” the “Source of all things.” To Lao Tzu, death does not touch the one who has realized the Tao.
According to certain spiritual teachings immortality is the continuous awareness of Self-existence and being without ever lapsing into an unconscious state no matter what psychological and physical conditions or transformations take place such as sleep, concussions, or death. It is the state of realizing one’s divinity and unity with the Source of all. Immortality and the state of being eternal are associated with one’s divine Parent. Unless one recognizes and is aware of this unified state between one’s identity and the Divine Being, one is not immortal, one merely undergoes various changes and is subjected to the whimsical forces of nature. Immortality from this point of view is not something that we automatically acquire when we pass through transition. It is a state that we may acquire here and now. The realization of one’s unity with God is the confirmation of one’s perpetual existence. There are many systems that purport to teach the aspirant the methods of acquiring mystical realization and unification with the divine being, they usually belong to the esoteric section of our world-religions; like religion proper, some of these mystical schools believe theirs to be the best. Popular metaphysics as a whole, embraces many of the above concepts regarding immortality.
The desire for immortality have also taken hold on the minds of computer engineers. To these scientists the computer is analogous to the human brain. They hope that one day a super-computer would be created where every function of the brain would be duplicated, and that it would be possible to transfer or download the human mind and consciousness into it thus creating an artificial habitation for the soul-intelligence. This is their strategy for immortalizing the soul-”a ghost in the machine” reality. Related to this is the supposition that computers and micro-chips would be so advanced and sophisticated in the near future that it would probably generate artificial intelligence-that is, thoughts and feelings of their own.
SOUL FACULTIES
The soul has various psychic faculties though most of them are not being used by the average person. The use of these faculties often result in strange paranormal activities or phenomena. Most psychic phenomena associated with the dead are actually caused by the living. For instance, hauntings are often believed to be “dead persons” appearing to the living, while in most cases hauntings are caused by the astral forms of people who are asleep and inadvertently appearing to others.
Some of the various psychic faculties are: Clairvoyance, clairaudience, clairsentience, telepathy, psychokinesis, precognition, soul-travel, and bilocation. These psychic faculties may be developed. It is not merely a gift. Those who are born with them usually have acquired them through psychic-training programs in past-lives. The “powers” that we mentioned above are considered to be the lower faculties of the soul. These powers belong to the etheric, astral and lower mental bodies. There are higher spiritual faculties and these are associated with the higher components in the microcosm, such as the Higher Mental, Buddhi, and Atma.
SOUL CULTURE
Spiritual evolution, when left to nature, progresses at a snail’s pace. Plant-like consciousness may take millions of years just to reach the animal consciousness stage. Human beings, likewise, in the natural course of evolution would similarly require eons just to attain human perfection or godhood–the next kingdom above humankind. However, there are spiritual practices that assists one to shorten this time tremendously. What would take a million years could all unfold in a single lifetime. This was alchemy’s biggest secret discovery–the transformation of lead, which is symbolical of the imperfect human being, into gold, which represents the perfect man. Why wait for nature to transmute lead into gold when it could be done in the laboratory by duplicating and accelerating nature’s processes? This was the alchemist’s reasoning. Though they exoterically referred to metals as the subject of their transformation, they were actually referring to the human soul.
The acceleration of evolution was referred to by the Master Jesus when he mentioned the “strait and narrow path.” According to him only the few would discover this path. These are the teachings that the Master promised to give to his disciples at a time when they were totally prepared for it. These esoteric doctrines and mystical practices are “lost” in the present-day teachings of the Churches. We need not say any more of this.
At present there are many esoteric schools and organizations, both East and West, helping mankind to evolve at a rapid pace. Among the creatures of the four kingdoms, man is the only one able to take his evolution into his own hands. By working with nature, humanity would make much progress. If society en masse reaches the consciousness level attained by the saints there would be no more wars and needless conflicts. This is not an impossibility. Mortal, human thoughts make us believe in our limitations–limitations that actually do not exist.
Soul culture helps us to rapidly evolve and to reach the goal set for us human beings by our Progenitor. In soul-culture there are three basic practices to consider: meditation, energy-work, and soul-refinement.
Meditation
Meditation is the most basic practice in soul-culture. It has been engaged in by saints, prophets, sages, and mystics throughout the ages. There are many meditational methods designed for various purposes. The Hindu yogis have their own methods of meditation, just as the Buddhists and the Taoists have theirs. The Western Tradition also possesses its own forms of meditation.
The basic purpose of meditation is to attune one’s conscious mind with one’s Higher Self, one’s Soul, or one’s inner divinity. In prayer we speak and the higher Intelligences listen; in meditation, the higher Intelligences speak and we listen. Hence, meditation helps us to receive spiritual and divine impulses emanating from God and one’s highest being. Inspiration and self-empowerment are the result of true meditation.
In the more advance practices of meditation we are led gradually to higher and higher dimensions or planes of consciousness where we would ultimately unite or become aware of our Spirit–the Monad. This attainment is referred to by Western writers as “Cosmic Consciousness.” In an ancient scripture we are taught a method of meditation:
“The Self, the inner spirit, ever dwelleth within the hearts of men. Patiently separate Him thou from the cover of the body in which He liveth, even as thou takest off the blades of a reed-plant. Him know thou as pure and immortal; know thou, He is pure and immortal.” (Kathopanishad, II. 6.17)
Energy-Work
Before the advanced practices of meditation may be successfully carried-out, one’s whole force-field and energy-structure would have to be purified, strengthened, refined, awakened, restructured, and empowered. This practice is referred to as energy-work.
The various components of the microcosm that has to be worked upon in energy-work includes the physical body, the chakras, the aura, the etheric channels, the etheric webs, the electronic belt, and the subconscious mind. There are material and psychic toxins accumulated in the vehicles of the Personality that have to be eliminated; and karmic stains that have to be removed. These negative energies causes lots of problems, not only in one’s higher spiritual cultivation practices, but also in daily life. Many of our so-called bad-luck stems from these etheric rubbish accumulated upon our system.
Soul-Refinement
Evolution requires soul-refinement. In order to raise one’s vibrations and improve the quality of one’s force-fields it is also necessary to refine one’s soul-nature, one’s character. It is a person’s low character that generates and attracts negative energies and it would be senseless to constantly perform energy-work when the time could be spent in more beneficial meditational practices. For this reason, aside from energy-work, one has also to work upon spiritualizing one’s character–getting to the root of the problem, so to speak. Almost all religions teaches this aspect of mysticism–a moral standard is set for us to follow. However, sometimes we find it difficult to live up to the standard laid out for us. Sometimes we may consciously know a thing to be right, but subconsciously we are impelled to think, feel or do the opposite. We experience an inner conflict. Metaphysics offer certain methods to overcoming this conflict, and to restructure the subconscious mind with positive energy patterns.
CONCLUSION
It is regrettable that this work could not be presented in a more perfect manner, and that it remains much to be desired. What we have written in this paper merely represents the tip of the iceberg. There is much more to be taken into consideration than what we have addressed in this paper. The Ancient Wisdom is a storehouse of metaphysical knowledge and we advise the interested reader in mystical matters to delve into its study. Certain aspects and knowledge concerning the whole immaterial part of man, as well as the destiny of the Soul goes way beyond the understanding and reach of conventional science and psychics. Nevertheless, There are many more things that could be said about the Soul, not only from the metaphysical point of view, but also from the anthropological, psychological, philosophical, and religious perspective. It is for this reason that we appeal to the reader to do some personal research and acquire the necessary information that would lead to a greater understanding of the Soul–not solely in an intellectual way, but also experientially in a mystical manner through spiritual cultivation. In the early stages of this paper we spelled the word Soul with a small first capital-letter; now we end this work using an upper-case. After studying this paper the reason should be obvious. One last advice: Know Thyself!
Copyright © 2006 Luxamore
The many theological hypotheses and theories regarding the survival of consciousness are without a basis from the scientific standpoint. Orthodox science even look askance towards the findings of parapsychology. Accounts such as Near-Death Experience, spontaneous past life recall, hypnotic regressions, Out-of-the-Body Experience, and psychic phenomena in general seemingly point to the immortality of the soul; however, conventional science still find such occurrences inconclusive. Fundamentally, science, however, does not oppose the notion of the existence of the soul or of its immortality; it is at present researching through empirical methods to prove or disprove it. However, it is realized that the phenomenon of the soul does not readily submit to objective analysis. Science realizes the limitations of its instruments in the detection of the existence of the soul.
There is another aspect to immortality and this concerns the physical form. Physical immortality is an ancient belief and is to be found in many cultures. In legends and in tales we find the theme of physical immortality repeatedly. The possibility of its attainment is well believed in among most metaphysicians. There are many highly spiritually developed yogis who are said to have reached the state of physical immortality. We personally possess the secret teachings that according to our preceptors in metaphysics, allow one to acquire immortality not only of the soul, but of the physical body as well–at least, it extends man’s life-span way beyond the norm.
In Taoism spiritual and physical immortality are both given careful consideration. Regarding physical immortality, there are many alchemical formulas supposed to immortalize the material body. Those who achieve physical immortality are called hsien. To the ignorant these alchemical formulas are supposedly made out of mineral or herbal substances; but to the knowledgeable, they refer to the internal processes of chi or energy. The methods for attaining spiritual immortality is associated with the spiritual realization of Tao, the Absolute, the “Mother,” the “Source of all things.” To Lao Tzu, death does not touch the one who has realized the Tao.
According to certain spiritual teachings immortality is the continuous awareness of Self-existence and being without ever lapsing into an unconscious state no matter what psychological and physical conditions or transformations take place such as sleep, concussions, or death. It is the state of realizing one’s divinity and unity with the Source of all. Immortality and the state of being eternal are associated with one’s divine Parent. Unless one recognizes and is aware of this unified state between one’s identity and the Divine Being, one is not immortal, one merely undergoes various changes and is subjected to the whimsical forces of nature. Immortality from this point of view is not something that we automatically acquire when we pass through transition. It is a state that we may acquire here and now. The realization of one’s unity with God is the confirmation of one’s perpetual existence. There are many systems that purport to teach the aspirant the methods of acquiring mystical realization and unification with the divine being, they usually belong to the esoteric section of our world-religions; like religion proper, some of these mystical schools believe theirs to be the best. Popular metaphysics as a whole, embraces many of the above concepts regarding immortality.
The desire for immortality have also taken hold on the minds of computer engineers. To these scientists the computer is analogous to the human brain. They hope that one day a super-computer would be created where every function of the brain would be duplicated, and that it would be possible to transfer or download the human mind and consciousness into it thus creating an artificial habitation for the soul-intelligence. This is their strategy for immortalizing the soul-”a ghost in the machine” reality. Related to this is the supposition that computers and micro-chips would be so advanced and sophisticated in the near future that it would probably generate artificial intelligence-that is, thoughts and feelings of their own.
SOUL FACULTIES
The soul has various psychic faculties though most of them are not being used by the average person. The use of these faculties often result in strange paranormal activities or phenomena. Most psychic phenomena associated with the dead are actually caused by the living. For instance, hauntings are often believed to be “dead persons” appearing to the living, while in most cases hauntings are caused by the astral forms of people who are asleep and inadvertently appearing to others.
Some of the various psychic faculties are: Clairvoyance, clairaudience, clairsentience, telepathy, psychokinesis, precognition, soul-travel, and bilocation. These psychic faculties may be developed. It is not merely a gift. Those who are born with them usually have acquired them through psychic-training programs in past-lives. The “powers” that we mentioned above are considered to be the lower faculties of the soul. These powers belong to the etheric, astral and lower mental bodies. There are higher spiritual faculties and these are associated with the higher components in the microcosm, such as the Higher Mental, Buddhi, and Atma.
SOUL CULTURE
Spiritual evolution, when left to nature, progresses at a snail’s pace. Plant-like consciousness may take millions of years just to reach the animal consciousness stage. Human beings, likewise, in the natural course of evolution would similarly require eons just to attain human perfection or godhood–the next kingdom above humankind. However, there are spiritual practices that assists one to shorten this time tremendously. What would take a million years could all unfold in a single lifetime. This was alchemy’s biggest secret discovery–the transformation of lead, which is symbolical of the imperfect human being, into gold, which represents the perfect man. Why wait for nature to transmute lead into gold when it could be done in the laboratory by duplicating and accelerating nature’s processes? This was the alchemist’s reasoning. Though they exoterically referred to metals as the subject of their transformation, they were actually referring to the human soul.
The acceleration of evolution was referred to by the Master Jesus when he mentioned the “strait and narrow path.” According to him only the few would discover this path. These are the teachings that the Master promised to give to his disciples at a time when they were totally prepared for it. These esoteric doctrines and mystical practices are “lost” in the present-day teachings of the Churches. We need not say any more of this.
At present there are many esoteric schools and organizations, both East and West, helping mankind to evolve at a rapid pace. Among the creatures of the four kingdoms, man is the only one able to take his evolution into his own hands. By working with nature, humanity would make much progress. If society en masse reaches the consciousness level attained by the saints there would be no more wars and needless conflicts. This is not an impossibility. Mortal, human thoughts make us believe in our limitations–limitations that actually do not exist.
Soul culture helps us to rapidly evolve and to reach the goal set for us human beings by our Progenitor. In soul-culture there are three basic practices to consider: meditation, energy-work, and soul-refinement.
Meditation
Meditation is the most basic practice in soul-culture. It has been engaged in by saints, prophets, sages, and mystics throughout the ages. There are many meditational methods designed for various purposes. The Hindu yogis have their own methods of meditation, just as the Buddhists and the Taoists have theirs. The Western Tradition also possesses its own forms of meditation.
The basic purpose of meditation is to attune one’s conscious mind with one’s Higher Self, one’s Soul, or one’s inner divinity. In prayer we speak and the higher Intelligences listen; in meditation, the higher Intelligences speak and we listen. Hence, meditation helps us to receive spiritual and divine impulses emanating from God and one’s highest being. Inspiration and self-empowerment are the result of true meditation.
In the more advance practices of meditation we are led gradually to higher and higher dimensions or planes of consciousness where we would ultimately unite or become aware of our Spirit–the Monad. This attainment is referred to by Western writers as “Cosmic Consciousness.” In an ancient scripture we are taught a method of meditation:
“The Self, the inner spirit, ever dwelleth within the hearts of men. Patiently separate Him thou from the cover of the body in which He liveth, even as thou takest off the blades of a reed-plant. Him know thou as pure and immortal; know thou, He is pure and immortal.” (Kathopanishad, II. 6.17)
Energy-Work
Before the advanced practices of meditation may be successfully carried-out, one’s whole force-field and energy-structure would have to be purified, strengthened, refined, awakened, restructured, and empowered. This practice is referred to as energy-work.
The various components of the microcosm that has to be worked upon in energy-work includes the physical body, the chakras, the aura, the etheric channels, the etheric webs, the electronic belt, and the subconscious mind. There are material and psychic toxins accumulated in the vehicles of the Personality that have to be eliminated; and karmic stains that have to be removed. These negative energies causes lots of problems, not only in one’s higher spiritual cultivation practices, but also in daily life. Many of our so-called bad-luck stems from these etheric rubbish accumulated upon our system.
Soul-Refinement
Evolution requires soul-refinement. In order to raise one’s vibrations and improve the quality of one’s force-fields it is also necessary to refine one’s soul-nature, one’s character. It is a person’s low character that generates and attracts negative energies and it would be senseless to constantly perform energy-work when the time could be spent in more beneficial meditational practices. For this reason, aside from energy-work, one has also to work upon spiritualizing one’s character–getting to the root of the problem, so to speak. Almost all religions teaches this aspect of mysticism–a moral standard is set for us to follow. However, sometimes we find it difficult to live up to the standard laid out for us. Sometimes we may consciously know a thing to be right, but subconsciously we are impelled to think, feel or do the opposite. We experience an inner conflict. Metaphysics offer certain methods to overcoming this conflict, and to restructure the subconscious mind with positive energy patterns.
CONCLUSION
It is regrettable that this work could not be presented in a more perfect manner, and that it remains much to be desired. What we have written in this paper merely represents the tip of the iceberg. There is much more to be taken into consideration than what we have addressed in this paper. The Ancient Wisdom is a storehouse of metaphysical knowledge and we advise the interested reader in mystical matters to delve into its study. Certain aspects and knowledge concerning the whole immaterial part of man, as well as the destiny of the Soul goes way beyond the understanding and reach of conventional science and psychics. Nevertheless, There are many more things that could be said about the Soul, not only from the metaphysical point of view, but also from the anthropological, psychological, philosophical, and religious perspective. It is for this reason that we appeal to the reader to do some personal research and acquire the necessary information that would lead to a greater understanding of the Soul–not solely in an intellectual way, but also experientially in a mystical manner through spiritual cultivation. In the early stages of this paper we spelled the word Soul with a small first capital-letter; now we end this work using an upper-case. After studying this paper the reason should be obvious. One last advice: Know Thyself!
Copyright © 2006 Luxamore
Psychic Chat Online – Popular Believe and Technology
IC asked:
Psychic readings have been around for a very long time and there are many techniques used by people who have psychic abilities in order to interpret someone’s fortune. The abilities these individuals have are often referred to as extra sensory perception, this is basically the gift of being able to perceive things that a normal person would not be able to using only the five senses.
This information may be hard to believe to some, however recent studies performed by the Gallup organization have shown that over 41% of the random American population sampled do in fact believe in some sort of extra sensory perception, an additional 26% of those interviewed said to believe in clairvoyance and furthermore a whopping 31% of those interviewed believed in psychic communication and even telepathy; these numbers leave out a 2% of those interviewed were skeptical to the whole concept in the first place.
Some people may argue that those who believe in psychics or paranormal ideas may not be very well educated however, such an argument can be easily thrown into question if we take in consideration a 2006 study conducted by researchers from the University of Oklahoma, who used a total of 439 college students on a poll in order to find out what was a percentage of students who believed in psychic phenomena. According to the results, seniors (who are usually consider more educated) were more likely to believe such concepts than the average freshman, these poll shows that over 31% of the college seniors who participated in the poll believe in psychics or paranormal ideas just as 34% of graduate students.
These numbers lead us to believe that the lack of education and general knowledge doesn’t necessarily explain the very popular belief in extra sensory perception or the world of the paranormal.
Taking these ideas, studies and concepts in consideration and can see why online psychic readings have become more popular over the years as technology changes the way we communicate with each other, the people are obviously more educated as time goes by, new concepts and technological advances are taught to us as well as information about the spiritual realm, this combination has obviously opened the doors for people who have questions regarding their lives and future to come into contact with those who can provide an answer to their concerns, and as we have previously stated these are known as the psychics.
Today, just about anyone is able to get in touch with a psychic used in the web, this activity is referred to as psychic chat online, this way of consultation turns out to be quite convenient to the great amount of people who believe in this concepts because they are able to get more information about the background, knowledge and specialties of the person they are talking to instead of being redirected for the first-person who becomes available on a phone consultation.
Psychic readings have been around for a very long time and there are many techniques used by people who have psychic abilities in order to interpret someone’s fortune. The abilities these individuals have are often referred to as extra sensory perception, this is basically the gift of being able to perceive things that a normal person would not be able to using only the five senses.
This information may be hard to believe to some, however recent studies performed by the Gallup organization have shown that over 41% of the random American population sampled do in fact believe in some sort of extra sensory perception, an additional 26% of those interviewed said to believe in clairvoyance and furthermore a whopping 31% of those interviewed believed in psychic communication and even telepathy; these numbers leave out a 2% of those interviewed were skeptical to the whole concept in the first place.
Some people may argue that those who believe in psychics or paranormal ideas may not be very well educated however, such an argument can be easily thrown into question if we take in consideration a 2006 study conducted by researchers from the University of Oklahoma, who used a total of 439 college students on a poll in order to find out what was a percentage of students who believed in psychic phenomena. According to the results, seniors (who are usually consider more educated) were more likely to believe such concepts than the average freshman, these poll shows that over 31% of the college seniors who participated in the poll believe in psychics or paranormal ideas just as 34% of graduate students.
These numbers lead us to believe that the lack of education and general knowledge doesn’t necessarily explain the very popular belief in extra sensory perception or the world of the paranormal.
Taking these ideas, studies and concepts in consideration and can see why online psychic readings have become more popular over the years as technology changes the way we communicate with each other, the people are obviously more educated as time goes by, new concepts and technological advances are taught to us as well as information about the spiritual realm, this combination has obviously opened the doors for people who have questions regarding their lives and future to come into contact with those who can provide an answer to their concerns, and as we have previously stated these are known as the psychics.
Today, just about anyone is able to get in touch with a psychic used in the web, this activity is referred to as psychic chat online, this way of consultation turns out to be quite convenient to the great amount of people who believe in this concepts because they are able to get more information about the background, knowledge and specialties of the person they are talking to instead of being redirected for the first-person who becomes available on a phone consultation.
Examining Psychic Powers in Science: The Power of the Paranormal in the Lab
Ian Hollander asked:
In this article we are going to take a quick look at the marriage of science and psi, or the process of studying psychic phenomenon under the microscope of serious intellectual inquiry, rather than for entertainment value alone. For most of us, psychic phenomena simply serves a side dish of silly, fun and a daily diversion from the seriousness of our own lives. Many people read their daily horoscopes in the newspaper, others visit sidewalk soothsayers in the hope of simply getting a little window of possibility into the wild and wooly world of the unknown and mysterious.
For a small select group of scientists and parapsychologists, this serious inquiry surpasses that of the occasional lighthearted look, and instead has become the focus of their lives work, their PASSION, their purpose and their primary field of study.
As someone who has had a lifelong passion for the unknown, a fascination with mystical and mysterious, I have often found it absolutely incredible that so many of the great discoveries and advancements in PSI research have gone reasonably un noticed by the greater population. At their core, each and EVERY paradigm shattering possibility that is passed represents another notch in our collective belt of potentials as people, both individually and as a whole.
When science can show through rigorous examination that there appears to be a significant mind to mind connection between people, I find that VERY exciting!
When the US government declassifies year’s worth of tests and reports on the authenticity of remote viewing experiments, I find it equally as inspiring. When an internationally renowned team of physicians speak on the similarity of Near Death Experiences being reported in emergency and trauma wards throughout the world, this is powerful stuff!
When world class and respected authors, doctors, researchers and writers who dedicate huge chunks of their daily lives to the diligent study of the same, uniformly come to believe that there is FAR more to our ordinary reality than that which our modern materialistic model of the universe would have us to believe, I find this powerful beyond all measure.
So the next time you think that psychic phenomena are only relegated to that woman in the mall with the tacky neon sign on the porch, or the anonymous astrologer in the newspaper who promises that your planets are properly positioned for a great week, think again, look deeper and join those on the tipping point of the new intersection between science and spirit. If you are like me, you’ll be happy you did!
In this article we are going to take a quick look at the marriage of science and psi, or the process of studying psychic phenomenon under the microscope of serious intellectual inquiry, rather than for entertainment value alone. For most of us, psychic phenomena simply serves a side dish of silly, fun and a daily diversion from the seriousness of our own lives. Many people read their daily horoscopes in the newspaper, others visit sidewalk soothsayers in the hope of simply getting a little window of possibility into the wild and wooly world of the unknown and mysterious.
For a small select group of scientists and parapsychologists, this serious inquiry surpasses that of the occasional lighthearted look, and instead has become the focus of their lives work, their PASSION, their purpose and their primary field of study.
As someone who has had a lifelong passion for the unknown, a fascination with mystical and mysterious, I have often found it absolutely incredible that so many of the great discoveries and advancements in PSI research have gone reasonably un noticed by the greater population. At their core, each and EVERY paradigm shattering possibility that is passed represents another notch in our collective belt of potentials as people, both individually and as a whole.
When science can show through rigorous examination that there appears to be a significant mind to mind connection between people, I find that VERY exciting!
When the US government declassifies year’s worth of tests and reports on the authenticity of remote viewing experiments, I find it equally as inspiring. When an internationally renowned team of physicians speak on the similarity of Near Death Experiences being reported in emergency and trauma wards throughout the world, this is powerful stuff!
When world class and respected authors, doctors, researchers and writers who dedicate huge chunks of their daily lives to the diligent study of the same, uniformly come to believe that there is FAR more to our ordinary reality than that which our modern materialistic model of the universe would have us to believe, I find this powerful beyond all measure.
So the next time you think that psychic phenomena are only relegated to that woman in the mall with the tacky neon sign on the porch, or the anonymous astrologer in the newspaper who promises that your planets are properly positioned for a great week, think again, look deeper and join those on the tipping point of the new intersection between science and spirit. If you are like me, you’ll be happy you did!
The Paranormal – Outside the Realm of Science
May 31, 2009 by admin
Filed under Uncategorized
John W. Martin asked:
The Paranormal – Outside the Realm of Science
http://www.yallways.com
The term “paranormal” is exceptionally broad. It can refer to any number of intriguing concepts or phenomena that are beyond what mainstream science can explain. Topics range from psychic phenomena to bizarre animals to UFO sightings and beyond. The definition is so far-reaching that most experts must focus on a specific subtopic of the paranormal in order to conduct substantial research. Thus, several fields of study, including crytozoology, parapsychology, and ufology, all fall under the heading of the paranormal.
Paranormal occurrences can be classified into many different categories. Of these many subtopics, phenomena related to death receive some of the greatest attention. This category includes unexplained occurrences involving supposed ghosts, spirits, and demons. For example, there are events relating to communications beyond the grave via Ouija boards, séances, and psychic processes. There are also more shocking paranormal phenomena involving ghost sightings and possession.
Another popular category within the umbrella of the paranormal is extraterrestrial-related phenomena. This includes UFO sightings, supposed abductions, and unexplained radio events. Often, UFO and ghost-related events can be linked to a third paranormal archetype; mysterious places. Numerous locations on Earth have been cited as possessing paranormal qualities related to unexplained events or constructions in the area. These places are also sometimes linked to cryptozoology, another category of the paranormal dealing with mysterious creatures, and ancient historical mysteries.
Still other paranormal events relate to people who claim they can channel paranormal phenomena through magic, witchcraft, and psychic powers. Research of these events has led to the field of parapsychology. Parapsychologists use an experimental approach to find statistically valid reasons for supposed “extra-sensory perception.” With the creation of several organizations devoted to this study, parapsychology has become more common. It has even been accepted by such renowned groups as the Stanford Research Institute and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Most paranormal phenomena are relegated to the realm of folklore and urban legends. However, scientific research into paranormal topics has been on the rise in recent decades. Unfortunately, it is difficult to collect information regarding paranormal events. Most researchers are forced to rely on anecdotal accounts from supposed eyewitnesses. Without firm, empirical evidence, many scholars have rejected all theories surrounding the paranormal. However, other scientists see the lack of evidence as adding to the challenge of the paranormal. Thus, they have dedicated their careers to uncovering credible data. This has led to experiments and observations made with advanced equipment and proper utilization of the scientific method.
Paranormal phenomena challenge conventional science. This naturally leads to numerous skeptics and critics. Despite those that seek to debunk all paranormal events, studies have shown that most people do believe in some form of paranormal phenomena. In fact, a 2005 Gallup Poll showed that 73 percent of Americans believe in some form of paranormal activity. This shows that interest in the unexplained is far from fading, and studies related to the paranormal are likely to continue until answers are found.
The Paranormal – Outside the Realm of Science
http://www.yallways.com
The term “paranormal” is exceptionally broad. It can refer to any number of intriguing concepts or phenomena that are beyond what mainstream science can explain. Topics range from psychic phenomena to bizarre animals to UFO sightings and beyond. The definition is so far-reaching that most experts must focus on a specific subtopic of the paranormal in order to conduct substantial research. Thus, several fields of study, including crytozoology, parapsychology, and ufology, all fall under the heading of the paranormal.
Paranormal occurrences can be classified into many different categories. Of these many subtopics, phenomena related to death receive some of the greatest attention. This category includes unexplained occurrences involving supposed ghosts, spirits, and demons. For example, there are events relating to communications beyond the grave via Ouija boards, séances, and psychic processes. There are also more shocking paranormal phenomena involving ghost sightings and possession.
Another popular category within the umbrella of the paranormal is extraterrestrial-related phenomena. This includes UFO sightings, supposed abductions, and unexplained radio events. Often, UFO and ghost-related events can be linked to a third paranormal archetype; mysterious places. Numerous locations on Earth have been cited as possessing paranormal qualities related to unexplained events or constructions in the area. These places are also sometimes linked to cryptozoology, another category of the paranormal dealing with mysterious creatures, and ancient historical mysteries.
Still other paranormal events relate to people who claim they can channel paranormal phenomena through magic, witchcraft, and psychic powers. Research of these events has led to the field of parapsychology. Parapsychologists use an experimental approach to find statistically valid reasons for supposed “extra-sensory perception.” With the creation of several organizations devoted to this study, parapsychology has become more common. It has even been accepted by such renowned groups as the Stanford Research Institute and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Most paranormal phenomena are relegated to the realm of folklore and urban legends. However, scientific research into paranormal topics has been on the rise in recent decades. Unfortunately, it is difficult to collect information regarding paranormal events. Most researchers are forced to rely on anecdotal accounts from supposed eyewitnesses. Without firm, empirical evidence, many scholars have rejected all theories surrounding the paranormal. However, other scientists see the lack of evidence as adding to the challenge of the paranormal. Thus, they have dedicated their careers to uncovering credible data. This has led to experiments and observations made with advanced equipment and proper utilization of the scientific method.
Paranormal phenomena challenge conventional science. This naturally leads to numerous skeptics and critics. Despite those that seek to debunk all paranormal events, studies have shown that most people do believe in some form of paranormal phenomena. In fact, a 2005 Gallup Poll showed that 73 percent of Americans believe in some form of paranormal activity. This shows that interest in the unexplained is far from fading, and studies related to the paranormal are likely to continue until answers are found.
The Metaphysical View of Death and Life After Death Part 9
May 3, 2009 by admin
Filed under News And Society
Leonard Lee asked:
In this section we will deal with some of the phenomena relevant to our discussion on the subject of death as probed into by researchers on the paranormal. Two of the most interesting of these phenomena that have been researched into in recent years by scientists of varied disciplines and which indicates the plausibility, and perhaps proof of the survival of consciousness from the scientific angle, are the “Out-of-the-Body Experience” (OBE) and “Near Death Experience” (NDE). These two phenomena are just two of the many ways that the afterdeath state or the survival of the consciousness may be known. Other methods of the occult tradition, however, may include meditation, and spiritualism, or channeling. Psychic phenomena that indicate life after death are those of apparitions, hauntings, possessions, and reincarnation claims. In this section we will specifically discuss OBEs and NDEs and their association with the after-death state; aside from these we will also briefly look into the practice of hypnotherapy, where it is used as a tool to successfully regress patients to the pre-natal state to uncover their life experiences in the higher planes prior to birth.
These experiences of subjects describe in some detail of the nature and life in the higher dimensions, or subtle realms. The findings of hypnotherapy substantiate certain long held assertions and claims of psychics, occultists and metaphysicians concerning the nature of “death.” In addition to OBEs and NDEs, we will, therefore, consider what hypnotherapy has uncovered through the practice of regression, as the findings are surprisingly similar to the occult tradition. Parapsychological phenomena offer us a glimpse of what contemporary scientists are discovering about the nature and survival of the human psyche through the “great initiation,” as death is often called among initiates of Mystery schools. The survival of the soul through the change called death is on the verge of being openly acknowledged by scientists and scholars of academic circles. Why, there have even been scientists that declared that the soul weighs 2 grams!
NDEs
Although NDEs are laboriously researched into in modern times, this phenomenon was known centuries ago by savants such as Henry Cornelius Agrippa, and even scholars of the ancient Greek period. Agrippa remarks in his Three Books of Occult Philosophy that Plato was well familiar with the subject of NDEs and even recorded one such NDE case in his work, “The Republic,” where he relates the story of a certain individual named Phereus of Pamphilia who was slained in battle and laid with the dead for several days in a comatose state until he returned to tell the tale of his wanderings in the netherworld. The phenomenon of NDEs is likewise no stranger to Eastern cultures. Tibetans, for instance, are well familiar with this psychological anomaly. They call such a person who returns from the threshold of death, “Delog.” Tibetan delogs relate experiences remarkably similar to their western counterparts eventhough coloured by their cultural framework.
NDEs were probably first brought to the attention to the scientific community and society in general by medical doctors and nurses. There are literally hundreds of cases on medical record where dying patients were clinically pronounced “dead,” only to revive moments later in a spontaneous manner or resuscitated with the aid of medical instruments. Clinical death is where the consciousness, reflexes, respiration and cardiac activities are suspended; it differs from biological death where the organism begins to deteriorate gradually on the cellular level. This activity of dissolution is, however, counterbalanced with a form of nourishment to certain parts of the body, and this accounts for the phenomena of the growth of hair and nails found on those who were long dead and buried but exhumed for certain reasons.
Delogs of both eastern and western cultures, testify of their visions and encounters with beings, and experiences of certain conditions or events that their soul was going through in the transition state as it left the physical body before being redrawn into physical consciousness. In NDEs, the transition in progress is always somehow interrupted for one reason or another enforcing the soul’s return to the physical world. Although some scientists are skeptical as to the nature of these experiences, these “deathbed” visions, labelling them as “hallucinations,” there are others who are convinced that delogs do in fact relate actual events occurring in different dimensional spheres. Skeptics, nevertheless, are adamant in attributing NDEs to various physical causes such as mental illnesses, anoxia, brain fever, stress, chemical or hormonal imbalance, temporal lobe seizures, drugs, anesthetics, etc. Such skeptics even attribute consciousness or the awareness-principle to chemical action and reaction in the brain. Notwithstanding these assertions of skeptics, however, it should be acknowledged that hallucinations through drugs do indicate a similarity in imagery as that of the bardo; and in a sense, certain things seen in the afterdeath state are indeed hallucinations. From the occult point of view, drugs, like the process of transition, trigger the release of subconscious images and project them onto the screen of consciousness. The images in both cases are hallucinations, but the experiences are genuine. In both cases the survival of consciousness is not disproved. Skeptics are not able to prove the annihilation of consciousness through the great change. When the matter is investigated with any seriousness though, skeptics are often instead faced with indications pointing to the possibility and plausibility of the immortality of the awareness-principle. Concerning the nature of deathbed visions, Ian Currie, paranormal researcher and author of “You Cannot Die” comments:
“Our efforts to `explain’ deathbed experiences by finding normal, ordinary causes for them have ended in complete failure. They cannot be explained by the medical condition of the dying person nor by the state of his mind, nor by his religion or cultural background . . . the only remaining possibility is that they are genuine psychic experiences” (1995:175)
The majority of NDEs share common elements. A common characteristic of the experiences of delogs, for instance, is their sense of soul-transition as something joyful and idyllic. Resuscitated subjects claim that the dying process is a blissful or a beautiful experience. Some report of even strongly fighting the urge to return to the physical form because of the strong attachment to the dying experience. There are other common characteristics of NDE that researchers have found to be impressive such as a sense of peace, painlessness and weightlessness; a sense of being discarnated and dead but alive in a euphoric sense; a perception of oneself being surrounded by deceased friends and relatives, or a spiritual being of light waiting to receive or greet the soul; a tunnel experience where one sees a white brilliance at the distance; a life-review and a sense of ascending towards the heavens; a sense of mental lucidity; a heightened psychic awareness where one perceives grieving friends and relatives; a sense of being conveyed by a guide or a current of energy to one’s soul destination in the subtle spheres; visions of beautiful landscapes and sounds of heavenly music, etc.
Paranormal researchers have been very impressed by the fact that NDEs cause a very profound transformational effect on the psyche of those who undergo the experience. They have found that the moral quality of delogs improve dramatically by transitional experiences. A reverence for life, among other spiritual qualities, was one of the characteristical expressions of transformed subjects. Psychic abilities are often developed as a result of NDEs. This alchemical transformation of the psyche through a NDE is very much akin to the psychological transformation that occurs to astronauts as they orbit above the earth in outer space.
The accounts of deathbed visions of NDEs very much parallel the visions of psychics and mystics. Incidentally, psychics who were witnessed to deathbed events, confirm the statements of the dying who were undergoing an NDE or a real transition, of the presence of discarnate beings waiting to fetch or greet them on the Otherside. Sometimes discarnate beings in the presence of the dying are seen by ordinary individuals as well. When more than one individual perceives the same thing at the same given moment, it can hardly be called a hallucination, especially when animals also react to such apparitions. Such psychic visions capture the attention and fascination of the dying and weary soul to the point where the attachments to earthly ties are forgotten and the desire for release augmented. In the same work as the above, Ian Currie sums up the core phenomena of deathbed visions that are universal to NDEs-visions that goes beyond one’s cultural background or religious beliefs:
“1) Most of the apparitions seen by the dying were `other-worldly’-dead close relatives and religious figures.
“2) Most of them were there `to take the dying away to another existence.’
“3) Most of the dying were eager to accept the invitation and `go’-by dying.
“4) Most landscapes visions were of `otherworldly’ scenery of such compelling beauty that the dying did not wish to remain in this world.
“5) Medically-inexplicable mood elevation occurred in some patients shortly before death.” (1995:175)
OBEs
Like NDEs, the phenomenon of Out-of-Body-Experiences was also widely known to ancient mystics and psychics; but unlike NDEs, OBEs, commonly called astral projection in the occult tradition, is an innate ability of the soul to voluntary project its subtle form and consciousness–and this occult ability may be unfolded with the aid of psychic exercises and occult procedures; or induced through the use of certain hallucinogenic herbs or mushrooms. OBEs may occur spontaneously, or enforced in some cases–as through accidents or anesthetics; but usually it is a voluntary practice in the occult arts.
Astral projection may be said to be the externalization or exteriorization of the consciousness from the physical form. In OBEs one feels and perceives oneself aware and functioning in a subtle, or astral body. In most cases, the astral senses perceive the physical form to be lying dormant and asleep as it emerges from the physical body. Usually though, this step is bypassed and the consciousness finds itself in another world, time, or place where physical laws do not apply. According to occultists, the quality or evolutionary status of the human soul and mind, as well as its willful expression may determine the nature of the astral form, and this very principle is being discovered by paranormal researchers. Although normally appearing as a counterpart of the physical form, the astral body is plastic-like, and may appear in any form imagined–and this quality is often taken advantage of by practicing occultists. Creative thought energy is a force that is often utilized by occultists to mould the astral form. Lycantrophy, or the so-called superstition of the metamorphosis of a human physical form into a werewolf is probably an occult practice based on the mind exerting its creative force upon the protean quality of the astral form within a certain mental matrix. It is reasonable to regard the shape-shifting of shamanism, of lycantrophy, to be of the astral form rather than the physical. In the Tibetan Tradition, one of the six realms is the world of animals. This refers to a locality within the lower astral realms where carnal and animalistic souls congregate or “incarnate.” Such souls with animal characteristics and traits assume animal forms as mentioned elsewhere in this work.
The transformable or unstable form of the astral body that occurs in OBEs is reflected in the statement of Filipo Liverziani in his book “Life, Death & Consciousness,” who along the lines of parapsychology, wrote concerning the OBE experience that:
“The projector may thus become aware of having the form of a small cloud, a wad of cotton or a luminous ball floating in space, just as he may see himself as possessing a very clearly defined human form that closely resembles that of his physical body.” (1991:33)
There are often cases in OBE phenomena where both astral and physical bodies are seen at the same time–although at different places. Technically, this is called bilocation. This phenomenon occurs when intentionally or unintentionally the vibrations of the astral form are lowered or densified with etheric substance, thus making it visible to physical perception momentarily–only to disappear at an unannounced moment. OBE subjects under such circumstances are often mistaken for “ghosts,” by Man and animals. In fact, a high percentage of ghost sightings of the so-called dead, are in fact sightings of the astral form of living human beings. As a side-interest, we may presume that, therefore, there are three kinds of apparitions: that of the dead, the living and the dying–the dying person, like the normal living individual, may spontaneously or unintentionally astral project to close relatives and friends. Apparitions of the dead and of the living share many common characteristics and abilities. This is stated emphatically by Ian Currie:
“Both the living and the dead have appeared as apparitions, been responsible for hauntings, communicated through mediums, appeared in death-bed visions, provided post-mortem accounts, spoken of a reincarnational past, and possessed the bodies of the living . . .” (1995:141)
From what we have stated so far, we may surmise that the trained mind may affect the astral form in various ways–it may affect the form of the astral, its density or frequency, and its locomotion. The astral form is described in parapsychological literature as being able to appear in three varying densities: as “invisible-permeable,” where it is invisible to physical perception, and physical objects offer no resistance as to its movement; as “transparent-semi-permeable,” where it appears as a haze to physical sight and somewhat subjected to physical laws; and “solid-appearance–impermeable to matter,” where it appears and behaves like a regular physical form and completely subjected to the laws of three-dimensionality. It should also be noted that the mind, when occultly trained and working through the astral form–and by manipulating etheric energies–may cause such psychic phenomena as the teleportation or the movement of objects. This is probably one of the many causes of the poltergeist phenomenon which is actually an unconscious manipulation of energy done by human subjects.
It is interesting to note how perception through astral senses differ from the physical. Unlike the five senses of the physical body, the astral senses are reported to be diffused throughout the astral form. Subjects of OBEs declare that they were able to see in all directions at once, that they possessed a 340-degree vision. Objects in the physical world are not perceived in the same way as through physical sight, though. Through astral eyes, earthly objects are said to appear “transparent.” According to reports, the magnetic emanations of objects are more easily seen than the physical forms themselves; and as for astral forms in general, objects in the astral world were discovered by adepts of astral projection to be “mental constructs” at the personal and collective level.
Among occult adepts living in the physical plane, as well as discarnates of the subtle spheres, the astral condition is often utilized as a media of contact between dimensions. In the astral form one is free of certain limitations or restrictions where time and space are concerned. This very fundamental law of the higher worlds is an important tool utilized by highly evolved entities to promptly attend and assist incarnated souls (or even discarnate ones) in aligning and harmonizing themselves with what may be called soul-destiny in conformity with the Divine Plan. These guides are sometimes called guardian angels or invisible helpers. These invisible helpers, whether from the physical plane or higher worlds, function as protectors, guides, and as the inner voice of incarnated souls. Hunches and intuitive impressions are often derived from these beings. They also provide strength and courage to souls who are in need of moral support.
These guardian spirits, as stated above, do not always come from higher spheres. Some of these entities are ordinary human beings with the occult ability to astral project. More often than not, they are highly evolved with much soul experience and are able to minister and offer counsel to suffering or wayward souls, or even to fulfill certain prayers addressed to the Great One. In the case of possessions or hauntings it is normally the exorcist who acts on the physical plane as counselor to the lost, confused, or “earth-bound” soul. It should be noted that not all souls may accept the proffered help by invisible guides or exorcists. In the case of possessions, such entities are forcefully ejected from the hold that they have on their victims. Generally, invisible helpers only assist and guide souls who request such help. This very principle is recognized by Liverziani who comments in his aforementioned book:
“In the spiritual world of the other dimensions it is not possible to help somebody who does not want to be helped. Help is made effective only by the fact that those who stand in need become aware of this and therefore ask for help, accept it, and collaborate with those who give it.” (1991:132)
It will be helpful here to enumerate the various points of experiences as reported by OBE subjects. According to paranormal investigators, subjects of OBEs, and collaborated by subjects of NDEs declare the following sensations and discoveries pertaining to the astral body and world:
1) A feeling of being very much alive and more mentally lucid than while being brain/body bound.
2) A feeling of euphoria, of peace profound and joy, with full possession of mental faculties.
3) A feeling of possessing a novel body with a protean quality, alterable with the use of the will–with the use of thought and desire; and that it may be densified so as to be physically visible.
4) Discovery that locomotion is driven through the use of the will.
5) Discovery that the astral body may be subtle enough to pass through physical objects and that it may be densified where interaction with the physical environment may be effected or desired.
6) Discovery that the astral form and awareness may influence the psychosomatic principles of sentient beings, as in the phenomena of psychic healing and possession.
7) Discovery that the psychic senses are heightened or enhanced; and that the consciousness functioning in full awareness in the astral world, activities in the astral realms may be engaged in.
Discovery that the astral or mental environment may be personally “created.”
Copyright © 2006 Luxamore
In this section we will deal with some of the phenomena relevant to our discussion on the subject of death as probed into by researchers on the paranormal. Two of the most interesting of these phenomena that have been researched into in recent years by scientists of varied disciplines and which indicates the plausibility, and perhaps proof of the survival of consciousness from the scientific angle, are the “Out-of-the-Body Experience” (OBE) and “Near Death Experience” (NDE). These two phenomena are just two of the many ways that the afterdeath state or the survival of the consciousness may be known. Other methods of the occult tradition, however, may include meditation, and spiritualism, or channeling. Psychic phenomena that indicate life after death are those of apparitions, hauntings, possessions, and reincarnation claims. In this section we will specifically discuss OBEs and NDEs and their association with the after-death state; aside from these we will also briefly look into the practice of hypnotherapy, where it is used as a tool to successfully regress patients to the pre-natal state to uncover their life experiences in the higher planes prior to birth.
These experiences of subjects describe in some detail of the nature and life in the higher dimensions, or subtle realms. The findings of hypnotherapy substantiate certain long held assertions and claims of psychics, occultists and metaphysicians concerning the nature of “death.” In addition to OBEs and NDEs, we will, therefore, consider what hypnotherapy has uncovered through the practice of regression, as the findings are surprisingly similar to the occult tradition. Parapsychological phenomena offer us a glimpse of what contemporary scientists are discovering about the nature and survival of the human psyche through the “great initiation,” as death is often called among initiates of Mystery schools. The survival of the soul through the change called death is on the verge of being openly acknowledged by scientists and scholars of academic circles. Why, there have even been scientists that declared that the soul weighs 2 grams!
NDEs
Although NDEs are laboriously researched into in modern times, this phenomenon was known centuries ago by savants such as Henry Cornelius Agrippa, and even scholars of the ancient Greek period. Agrippa remarks in his Three Books of Occult Philosophy that Plato was well familiar with the subject of NDEs and even recorded one such NDE case in his work, “The Republic,” where he relates the story of a certain individual named Phereus of Pamphilia who was slained in battle and laid with the dead for several days in a comatose state until he returned to tell the tale of his wanderings in the netherworld. The phenomenon of NDEs is likewise no stranger to Eastern cultures. Tibetans, for instance, are well familiar with this psychological anomaly. They call such a person who returns from the threshold of death, “Delog.” Tibetan delogs relate experiences remarkably similar to their western counterparts eventhough coloured by their cultural framework.
NDEs were probably first brought to the attention to the scientific community and society in general by medical doctors and nurses. There are literally hundreds of cases on medical record where dying patients were clinically pronounced “dead,” only to revive moments later in a spontaneous manner or resuscitated with the aid of medical instruments. Clinical death is where the consciousness, reflexes, respiration and cardiac activities are suspended; it differs from biological death where the organism begins to deteriorate gradually on the cellular level. This activity of dissolution is, however, counterbalanced with a form of nourishment to certain parts of the body, and this accounts for the phenomena of the growth of hair and nails found on those who were long dead and buried but exhumed for certain reasons.
Delogs of both eastern and western cultures, testify of their visions and encounters with beings, and experiences of certain conditions or events that their soul was going through in the transition state as it left the physical body before being redrawn into physical consciousness. In NDEs, the transition in progress is always somehow interrupted for one reason or another enforcing the soul’s return to the physical world. Although some scientists are skeptical as to the nature of these experiences, these “deathbed” visions, labelling them as “hallucinations,” there are others who are convinced that delogs do in fact relate actual events occurring in different dimensional spheres. Skeptics, nevertheless, are adamant in attributing NDEs to various physical causes such as mental illnesses, anoxia, brain fever, stress, chemical or hormonal imbalance, temporal lobe seizures, drugs, anesthetics, etc. Such skeptics even attribute consciousness or the awareness-principle to chemical action and reaction in the brain. Notwithstanding these assertions of skeptics, however, it should be acknowledged that hallucinations through drugs do indicate a similarity in imagery as that of the bardo; and in a sense, certain things seen in the afterdeath state are indeed hallucinations. From the occult point of view, drugs, like the process of transition, trigger the release of subconscious images and project them onto the screen of consciousness. The images in both cases are hallucinations, but the experiences are genuine. In both cases the survival of consciousness is not disproved. Skeptics are not able to prove the annihilation of consciousness through the great change. When the matter is investigated with any seriousness though, skeptics are often instead faced with indications pointing to the possibility and plausibility of the immortality of the awareness-principle. Concerning the nature of deathbed visions, Ian Currie, paranormal researcher and author of “You Cannot Die” comments:
“Our efforts to `explain’ deathbed experiences by finding normal, ordinary causes for them have ended in complete failure. They cannot be explained by the medical condition of the dying person nor by the state of his mind, nor by his religion or cultural background . . . the only remaining possibility is that they are genuine psychic experiences” (1995:175)
The majority of NDEs share common elements. A common characteristic of the experiences of delogs, for instance, is their sense of soul-transition as something joyful and idyllic. Resuscitated subjects claim that the dying process is a blissful or a beautiful experience. Some report of even strongly fighting the urge to return to the physical form because of the strong attachment to the dying experience. There are other common characteristics of NDE that researchers have found to be impressive such as a sense of peace, painlessness and weightlessness; a sense of being discarnated and dead but alive in a euphoric sense; a perception of oneself being surrounded by deceased friends and relatives, or a spiritual being of light waiting to receive or greet the soul; a tunnel experience where one sees a white brilliance at the distance; a life-review and a sense of ascending towards the heavens; a sense of mental lucidity; a heightened psychic awareness where one perceives grieving friends and relatives; a sense of being conveyed by a guide or a current of energy to one’s soul destination in the subtle spheres; visions of beautiful landscapes and sounds of heavenly music, etc.
Paranormal researchers have been very impressed by the fact that NDEs cause a very profound transformational effect on the psyche of those who undergo the experience. They have found that the moral quality of delogs improve dramatically by transitional experiences. A reverence for life, among other spiritual qualities, was one of the characteristical expressions of transformed subjects. Psychic abilities are often developed as a result of NDEs. This alchemical transformation of the psyche through a NDE is very much akin to the psychological transformation that occurs to astronauts as they orbit above the earth in outer space.
The accounts of deathbed visions of NDEs very much parallel the visions of psychics and mystics. Incidentally, psychics who were witnessed to deathbed events, confirm the statements of the dying who were undergoing an NDE or a real transition, of the presence of discarnate beings waiting to fetch or greet them on the Otherside. Sometimes discarnate beings in the presence of the dying are seen by ordinary individuals as well. When more than one individual perceives the same thing at the same given moment, it can hardly be called a hallucination, especially when animals also react to such apparitions. Such psychic visions capture the attention and fascination of the dying and weary soul to the point where the attachments to earthly ties are forgotten and the desire for release augmented. In the same work as the above, Ian Currie sums up the core phenomena of deathbed visions that are universal to NDEs-visions that goes beyond one’s cultural background or religious beliefs:
“1) Most of the apparitions seen by the dying were `other-worldly’-dead close relatives and religious figures.
“2) Most of them were there `to take the dying away to another existence.’
“3) Most of the dying were eager to accept the invitation and `go’-by dying.
“4) Most landscapes visions were of `otherworldly’ scenery of such compelling beauty that the dying did not wish to remain in this world.
“5) Medically-inexplicable mood elevation occurred in some patients shortly before death.” (1995:175)
OBEs
Like NDEs, the phenomenon of Out-of-Body-Experiences was also widely known to ancient mystics and psychics; but unlike NDEs, OBEs, commonly called astral projection in the occult tradition, is an innate ability of the soul to voluntary project its subtle form and consciousness–and this occult ability may be unfolded with the aid of psychic exercises and occult procedures; or induced through the use of certain hallucinogenic herbs or mushrooms. OBEs may occur spontaneously, or enforced in some cases–as through accidents or anesthetics; but usually it is a voluntary practice in the occult arts.
Astral projection may be said to be the externalization or exteriorization of the consciousness from the physical form. In OBEs one feels and perceives oneself aware and functioning in a subtle, or astral body. In most cases, the astral senses perceive the physical form to be lying dormant and asleep as it emerges from the physical body. Usually though, this step is bypassed and the consciousness finds itself in another world, time, or place where physical laws do not apply. According to occultists, the quality or evolutionary status of the human soul and mind, as well as its willful expression may determine the nature of the astral form, and this very principle is being discovered by paranormal researchers. Although normally appearing as a counterpart of the physical form, the astral body is plastic-like, and may appear in any form imagined–and this quality is often taken advantage of by practicing occultists. Creative thought energy is a force that is often utilized by occultists to mould the astral form. Lycantrophy, or the so-called superstition of the metamorphosis of a human physical form into a werewolf is probably an occult practice based on the mind exerting its creative force upon the protean quality of the astral form within a certain mental matrix. It is reasonable to regard the shape-shifting of shamanism, of lycantrophy, to be of the astral form rather than the physical. In the Tibetan Tradition, one of the six realms is the world of animals. This refers to a locality within the lower astral realms where carnal and animalistic souls congregate or “incarnate.” Such souls with animal characteristics and traits assume animal forms as mentioned elsewhere in this work.
The transformable or unstable form of the astral body that occurs in OBEs is reflected in the statement of Filipo Liverziani in his book “Life, Death & Consciousness,” who along the lines of parapsychology, wrote concerning the OBE experience that:
“The projector may thus become aware of having the form of a small cloud, a wad of cotton or a luminous ball floating in space, just as he may see himself as possessing a very clearly defined human form that closely resembles that of his physical body.” (1991:33)
There are often cases in OBE phenomena where both astral and physical bodies are seen at the same time–although at different places. Technically, this is called bilocation. This phenomenon occurs when intentionally or unintentionally the vibrations of the astral form are lowered or densified with etheric substance, thus making it visible to physical perception momentarily–only to disappear at an unannounced moment. OBE subjects under such circumstances are often mistaken for “ghosts,” by Man and animals. In fact, a high percentage of ghost sightings of the so-called dead, are in fact sightings of the astral form of living human beings. As a side-interest, we may presume that, therefore, there are three kinds of apparitions: that of the dead, the living and the dying–the dying person, like the normal living individual, may spontaneously or unintentionally astral project to close relatives and friends. Apparitions of the dead and of the living share many common characteristics and abilities. This is stated emphatically by Ian Currie:
“Both the living and the dead have appeared as apparitions, been responsible for hauntings, communicated through mediums, appeared in death-bed visions, provided post-mortem accounts, spoken of a reincarnational past, and possessed the bodies of the living . . .” (1995:141)
From what we have stated so far, we may surmise that the trained mind may affect the astral form in various ways–it may affect the form of the astral, its density or frequency, and its locomotion. The astral form is described in parapsychological literature as being able to appear in three varying densities: as “invisible-permeable,” where it is invisible to physical perception, and physical objects offer no resistance as to its movement; as “transparent-semi-permeable,” where it appears as a haze to physical sight and somewhat subjected to physical laws; and “solid-appearance–impermeable to matter,” where it appears and behaves like a regular physical form and completely subjected to the laws of three-dimensionality. It should also be noted that the mind, when occultly trained and working through the astral form–and by manipulating etheric energies–may cause such psychic phenomena as the teleportation or the movement of objects. This is probably one of the many causes of the poltergeist phenomenon which is actually an unconscious manipulation of energy done by human subjects.
It is interesting to note how perception through astral senses differ from the physical. Unlike the five senses of the physical body, the astral senses are reported to be diffused throughout the astral form. Subjects of OBEs declare that they were able to see in all directions at once, that they possessed a 340-degree vision. Objects in the physical world are not perceived in the same way as through physical sight, though. Through astral eyes, earthly objects are said to appear “transparent.” According to reports, the magnetic emanations of objects are more easily seen than the physical forms themselves; and as for astral forms in general, objects in the astral world were discovered by adepts of astral projection to be “mental constructs” at the personal and collective level.
Among occult adepts living in the physical plane, as well as discarnates of the subtle spheres, the astral condition is often utilized as a media of contact between dimensions. In the astral form one is free of certain limitations or restrictions where time and space are concerned. This very fundamental law of the higher worlds is an important tool utilized by highly evolved entities to promptly attend and assist incarnated souls (or even discarnate ones) in aligning and harmonizing themselves with what may be called soul-destiny in conformity with the Divine Plan. These guides are sometimes called guardian angels or invisible helpers. These invisible helpers, whether from the physical plane or higher worlds, function as protectors, guides, and as the inner voice of incarnated souls. Hunches and intuitive impressions are often derived from these beings. They also provide strength and courage to souls who are in need of moral support.
These guardian spirits, as stated above, do not always come from higher spheres. Some of these entities are ordinary human beings with the occult ability to astral project. More often than not, they are highly evolved with much soul experience and are able to minister and offer counsel to suffering or wayward souls, or even to fulfill certain prayers addressed to the Great One. In the case of possessions or hauntings it is normally the exorcist who acts on the physical plane as counselor to the lost, confused, or “earth-bound” soul. It should be noted that not all souls may accept the proffered help by invisible guides or exorcists. In the case of possessions, such entities are forcefully ejected from the hold that they have on their victims. Generally, invisible helpers only assist and guide souls who request such help. This very principle is recognized by Liverziani who comments in his aforementioned book:
“In the spiritual world of the other dimensions it is not possible to help somebody who does not want to be helped. Help is made effective only by the fact that those who stand in need become aware of this and therefore ask for help, accept it, and collaborate with those who give it.” (1991:132)
It will be helpful here to enumerate the various points of experiences as reported by OBE subjects. According to paranormal investigators, subjects of OBEs, and collaborated by subjects of NDEs declare the following sensations and discoveries pertaining to the astral body and world:
1) A feeling of being very much alive and more mentally lucid than while being brain/body bound.
2) A feeling of euphoria, of peace profound and joy, with full possession of mental faculties.
3) A feeling of possessing a novel body with a protean quality, alterable with the use of the will–with the use of thought and desire; and that it may be densified so as to be physically visible.
4) Discovery that locomotion is driven through the use of the will.
5) Discovery that the astral body may be subtle enough to pass through physical objects and that it may be densified where interaction with the physical environment may be effected or desired.
6) Discovery that the astral form and awareness may influence the psychosomatic principles of sentient beings, as in the phenomena of psychic healing and possession.
7) Discovery that the psychic senses are heightened or enhanced; and that the consciousness functioning in full awareness in the astral world, activities in the astral realms may be engaged in.
Discovery that the astral or mental environment may be personally “created.”Copyright © 2006 Luxamore
