Fellowship of Cosmic Fire
Commentary Semester I Section X
TCF 97-103
S1S10: Version 1.4 VSK Reconstituted 04Apr05
(Most
of the Tibetan’s text is put in font 16, to provide better legibility when
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III. THE FUNCTION OF THE ETHERIC
BODY
We will now
continue with the discussion of the etheric body, and take up the consideration
of its function and its relation to the physical body.
The two may
wisely be considered together, for the inter-relation is so close that it is
not possible to discuss them separately.
1.
Long
ago in Lemuria the integration between the two was made for the majority of
mankind, and they have been functioning largely as a unit since.
Primarily the functions of the etheric body
are three in number:
1. It is the receiver of prana.
2. It is the assimilator of prana.
3. It is the transmitter of prana.
2.
In
summary, three words are to be remembered:
a.
Receiver
b.
Assimilator
c.
Transmitter
d.
The
three aspects are suggested by these three processes:
i.
Receiver,
ray three
ii.
Assimilator,
ray two
iii.
Transmitter,
ray one
1. The receiver of prana.
The etheric
body may therefore be described as negative or receptive in respect to the rays
of the sun, and as [Page 98] positive and expulsive in respect to the dense
physical body.
3.
Lesser
beings are usually negative to greater beings. The dense physical body is
negative to the etheric body which is positive and expulsive with respect to
it.
4.
A
vital etheric body can expel that
which is not needed in the dense physical body.
The second function—that of
assimilation—is strictly balanced or internal. As stated earlier, the pranic emanations of
the sun are absorbed by the etheric body, via certain centres which are found
principally in the upper part of the body, from whence they are directed
downwards to the centre which is called the etheric spleen, as it is the
counterpart in etheric matter of that organ.
5.
A
little review. Note the factor of balance
suggesting Libra. Assimilation, per se, is associated with Virgo. In any case,
the middle part of the zodiac is involved in the process of assimilation.
6.
That
which is useable is assimilated.
The main centre for the reception of prana at
present is a centre between the shoulder blades.
7.
The
fact that center between the shoulder blades is the “main center” has
implications for how we dress, for this center must be exposed to the rays of
the Sun.
8.
While
the center between the shoulder blades may be the main center for the reception of prana, the main center for
the assimilation of prana is the
spleen.
“The main organ of
assimilation is the spleen—the etheric centre and the dense physical organ.”
(TCF 99)
Another has been allowed to become partially
dormant in man through the abuses of so-called civilisation, and is situated
slightly above the solar plexus.
9.
These
abuses may include dietary habits and a sedentary life style.
10.
We
see how the human being can adversely affect even his subtle physical nature
through wrong habit.
In the coming rootrace, and increasingly in this, the necessity for the
exposure of these two centres to the rays of the sun,
will be appreciated, with a corresponding improvement in physical vitality and
adaptability.
11.
If DK
is speaking of the sixth root race, the wait seems long. If of the sixth
subrace, a beginning can be made.
12.
The
number six can be considered as solar—Kabbalistically.
These three
centres,
1. Between the shoulder blades,
2. Above the diaphragm,
3. And the
spleen
make, if
one could but see it, a radiant etheric triangle, which triangle is the
originating impulse for the later pranic circulation throughout the entire
system.
13.
Again,
these three are called the “pranic triangle”.
14.
We
note that pranic circulation begins with the this “radiant etheric triangle”, the
“pranic triangle”, before reaching the entire system. Probably, each type of
atom (solar, planetary, human and the atom of matter) has a correspondence to
this pranic triangle.
15.
As
the center between the shoulder blades is near the lungs, the relationship
between breathing and vitality can be graphically seen.
The
etheric body is really a net-work of fine channels, which are the component
parts of one interlacing fine cord,—one portion of this cord being the
magnetic link which unites the physical and the astral bodies and which is
snapped or broken after the withdrawal of the etheric body from the dense
physical body at the time of death. The
silver cord is loosed, as the Bible expresses it44 [44: The Bible. Ecc: XII, 6.] and this is the basis of the legend
of the fateful sister who cuts the thread of life with the dreaded shears.
16.
It is
significant that for all its ramifying diversity, the etheric body is but “one
interlacing fine cord”. It is, therefore, a ‘diversifying unity’. This is
another example of ‘the many in the one’.
17.
The
cord has portions. DK mentions one important portion—the “silver cord” or
“silver thread” which is snapped or broken at death, when the etheric body
withdraws from the dense physical.
18.
The
“fateful sister” is related to Pluto who “cuts the thread”—not only this thread
but others of a higher nature (binding together soul and personality).
19.
The
“silver cord” is a “magnetic link”. One way to think of such subtle “threads”
is as magnetic currents.
The etheric
web is composed of the intricate
weaving of this vitalised cord, and apart from the seven centres [Page
99] within the web (which correspond to the sacred centres, and of which the
spleen is frequently counted as one) it has the two above mentioned, which
make—with the spleen—a triangle of activity.
20.
We
note the use of the term “intricate weaving”. Immediately, this suggests the
Third Ray Lord Who is knows at the “Weaver”. (cf. EP
II Law of Repulse, The Direction of Ray III, p. 167)
21.
The
weavings of the vitalized cord connect the various centers or chakras in the
etheric body. The seven centers (and the other chakras) are considered to be
“within the web”.
22.
There
are usually considered to be seven major centers in the etheric body. The
spleen is the eighth, or the seventh if the sacral
center is not counted, as is sometimes the case.
23.
If
all centers are counted, we have a major seven, plus three—the spleen, the center
above the diaphragm and the center between the shoulder blades. This makes
ten—seven major and three lesser. There are also centers which are higher than
the seven major centers—such as the seven head centers (by some estimates, within the head) and the two
many-petalled lotuses.
The etheric web of
the solar system is of an analogous nature, and likewise has its three
receptive centres for cosmic prana. The mysterious band in
the heavens, which we call the Milky Way, (S. D.
II.250) is closely connected with cosmic prana, or that cosmic vitality
or nourishment which vitalises the solar etheric system.
24.
What
may be the centers within the solar system which received cosmic prana? If we
follow analogy, they may well be planets, though minor ones.
25.
The Earth
is connected to the etheric body and the spleen:
1. Two of the non-sacred planets (the Earth
itself and the Moon) are connected with two centres which in the highly evolved
man are not of dominating importance:
a. The spleen receiving pranic emanations from the planet
on which we live and concerned with the etheric and physical bodies and their
physical relation.
b. A centre
in the chest related to the thymus gland. This centre becomes inactive in the
advanced man but has a connection with the vagus nerve, prior to the awakening
of the heart centre. (EA 78)
26.
May
the fertile Earth (remembering what a fertile demonstration of life is
connected with the point near the Earth’s pole where solar prana is said to be
received) be a member of the solar systemic pranic triangle?
27.
One
of the functions of the Earth, of course, is in relation to the solar system
“base of the spine”, but this function is likely to be more accentuated in the
solar system following this one when the monadic ray of the Earth becomes more
expressive.
28.
Remembering
the following statement from TCF 86: “ The organ of
the spleen has an interesting correspondence to the umbilical cord which
attaches an infant to the mother for purposes of nourishment, and which is
separated at birth”, we can view the Milky Way as a comic umbilical cord and
see it as having a function related to the cosmic spleen.
29.
Within
the periphery of the Seven Solar Systems of which Ours
is One, (SSSOWOIO), there is likely to be a solar system which plays the role
of splenic center (and others for the other two centers in the solar pranic
triangle). The same can be said of the system of the One About
Whom Naught May Be Said (OAWNMBS). In this case a minor (not major)
constellation would play the role of splenic center, and the same of the other
two minor cosmic centers (between the shoulder blades and above the diaphragm).
30.
Interestingly,
the Milky Way has a close connection to Taurus and to “Vach”, the Divine Cow,
and to the “Word” (related to the throat which Taurus rules). Microcosmically,
Taurus in the chart is known as a reservoir of prana and is frequently found in
the charts of healers with abundant vitality to share.
2. The assimilator of prana.
The process of assimilation is
carried on in this triangle, and the prana which enters into either centre,
circulates three times around the triangle before being transmitted to all
parts of the etheric vehicle and from thence to the dense physical body.
31.
When
dealing with triangles, we often find the number nine associated, for each part of a triangle is threefold.
32.
The
pranic triangle is thus used for both reception and assimilation.
33.
The
widest distribution is therefore preceded by a definite focalized process.
The main organ of assimilation is the spleen—the etheric centre and the
dense physical organ. The vital essence from the sun is
passed into the etheric spleen, and is there subjected to a process of
intensification or devitalisation, according to the condition, healthy or not,
of that organ. If the man is in a healthy state the emanation received will be
augmented by his own individual vibration, and its rate of vibration will be
keyed up before it is passed on into the physical spleen; or it will be slowed
down and lowered if the man is in a poor condition of health.
34.
We
remember, however, that the main organ for the “reception” of prana is the
center between the shoulder blades.
35.
The
question of how “vital essence from the sun” reaches the physical spleen is
here addressed. It is in the etheric spleen that the vital essence from the Sun
is either intensified or devitalized. The health of the spleen is
the determining factor.
36.
A
healthy splenic center intensifies the vibration of the received vital solar
essence. An unhealthy splenic center subjects the vital essence to a process of
devitalization.
37.
It
may be presumed that an unhealthy etheric body (and splenic center) may be
revitalized by right exposure to pranic streams.
These three
centres are in the form that all centres take, of saucer-like depressions, resembling somewhat the appearance of small
whirlpools, and which draw within their sphere of influence the currents that
come their way.
38.
Descriptions
of these three centers (and, to a degree, of all centers) are here given.
39.
Vorticular
movement is found in relation to the chakras. They are like “small whirlpools”
and like whirlpools have a drawing action upon energy currents in their general
vicinity.
40.
Another
term which is most graphic is “whirling vortices”.
The centres should be pictured as
whirling vortices with a
closely woven threefold channel passing from each centre to the other,
and forming an almost separate circulatory system.
41.
We
remember (in connection with Sun and other atoms) the triple channel which
connects the inner latent fire with the surface of the sphere in which it is
contained:
“There exists in the Sun, in the
planet, in man, and in the atom, a central point of heat, or (if I might use so
limiting and inappropriate a term) a central cavern of fire, or nucleus of heat, and this central
nucleus reaches the bounds of its sphere of influence, its ring-pass-not by
means of a threefold channel. (TCF 58)
42.
Again
we see a threefold channel, this time connecting the chakras within the etheric
body. The chakras specifically mentioned are the ones in the “pranic triangle”,
but a diagram of the chakra system by C.W. Leadbeater in his monograph, The Chakras, shows a threefold channel
connecting all chakras to each other.
43.
There
a number of circulatory systems in man; the threefold channels connecting the
various chakras comprise one of them. The interplay between the chakras must
depend very much upon these threefold channels.
This
finds its point of departure for [Page 100] the entire system at the further
side of the spleen to that at which the prana entered.
44.
We
are speaking of the “point of departure” for the triple channels connecting the
chakras.
45.
Prana
enter on one side of the spleen and the threefold channel departs from the
other side.
The vital fluid circulates through and between
these three centres three times, before it finally passes out from them to the
periphery of its little system.
46.
The
circulatory dynamics are clearly given: three circulations between the three
centers of the pranic triangle and then a passing from them to the periphery
(of whatever system).
This final circulation carries the prana, via
the fine interlacing channels, to every part of the body, which becomes
entirely impregnated by these emanations, if it might be so expressed.
47.
The
“final circulation” is the one that carries the prana from the triangle to the
periphery and “to every part of the body”.
48.
These
vital pranic emanations entirely impregnate the body (with vitality).
These
emanations find their way finally out of the etheric system by means of surface
radiation. The pranic essence escapes
from the circumference of its temporary ring-pass-not as emanative human prana,
which is the same prana as earlier received, plus the peculiar quality that any
single individual may convey to it during its transitory circulation. The essence escapes, plus individual quality.
49.
The
human body does not retain excess prana. That which is not absorbed and
assimilated escapes through surface radiation called “emanative human prana”
50.
To
the original essence is added a peculiar individual quality. Thus all beings
tincture that which they receive as prana with their own quality.
51.
All
this reveals that human pranic emanation is tinctured by distinctive quality.
It does not leave through surface radiation in the same state it entered the
human system. The same is true for the other atoms under consideration.
Here again
can be seen the correspondence to the escape of all essences from within any
ring-pass-not when the cycle has been completed.
52.
The
“escape of all essences” has an alchemical ring to it. The one principle in
action is that of constant circulation.
53.
Death,
also, is an “escape of essence”—“once the cycle has been completed”.
54.
All
these dynamics occur under the direction of the Law of Periodicity related to
the Law of Attraction and Repulsion.
This matter
of the etheric body is of a very practical interest, and when its importance is
better realised, men will attend to the distribution of prana within the body
with closer attention, and will see that the vitalisation of the body, via the
three centres, proceeds unhindered.
55.
The
three centers of the pranic triangle will have to receive definite careful and
intelligent attention if man is to have a fully vital, healthy physical
expression.
56.
From
what is here said, one may assume that, presently, the circulation within the
pranic triangle is hindered for many.
The subject
has necessarily to be handled in a superficial manner,
and only outlines and scattered hints can be given. Nevertheless, it will be found that if this
teaching is studied with care, it will convey a knowledge
of truths whose calibre and content will prove invaluable and of a kind
hitherto not given out.
57.
DK
points to the value of what He has discussed, sketchy though it may seem to be.
Apparently much of great value is compressed into a small space, and should
lead to practical results.
The place of the etheric sheath as a
separator or ring-pass-not, and its functions as a receiver and distributor of
prana, are dealt with here in a larger sense than heretofore, and the subject
may later be enlarged.
58.
We
note several functions of the etheric body discussed in the last several pages:
a.
A
separator of the astral body from the dense physical body
b.
A
receiver of prana
c.
An
assimilator of prana (through the splenic center)
d.
A
distributor of prana (through the find network of nadis and eventually through
surface radiation).
59.
Two
fundamental truths stand out from the aggregate of facts so slightly dealt with
here:
[Page 101]
First.
The fourth etheric subplane of
the physical plane is the immediate concern of
a. Man, the
Microcosm,
b. The
Heavenly Man, the planetary Logos,
c. The
Grand Man of the Heavens, the solar Logos.
60.
We
find a very interesting parallel between the three entities considered. All of
them have their struggles (for the number four
is the number of struggle).
61.
We
have been told that the Planetary Logos is struggling on the fourth subplane of
the cosmic astral plane, attempting (like the Logos of Venus) to polarize on
the fifth. By analogy, this may also be true of man and of the Solar Logos. The
reflection of this astral struggle may be their focus upon the fourth etheric subplane. In any case,
the number four (with all that that
number implies) is important for all of them.
Second.
In this fourth chain and fourth round, the fourth ether is beginning to
be studied, and—viewed as a separating web—it permits
occasional exit to those of suitable vibration.
62.
This
study is not confined to the esotericists of the world. The advanced physicists
of our day are penetrating the phenomena of this ether.
63.
What is “suitable vibration”? It must
represent a certain degree of soul culture.
3. The Transmitter of Prana.
We have
touched but little on the subject of the fire, the purpose of the etheric body
being to convey it and distribute it to all parts of its system.
64.
This
is another epitomized function of the etheric body which should be remembered:
the distribution of “fire” to all parts of the system.
We have dwelt on facts which might stimulate
interest and emphasise the utility of this pranic vehicle. Certain facts need emphasis and consideration
as we study this static ring and its circulating fires. Let me briefly recapitulate for the sake of
clarity:
65.
A
statement of interest is made: the etheric body is called a “static ring”
possessing “circulating fires”. Does this mean that, like the dense physical
body, the etheric body does not rotate? An important and impending study
concerns the rotation of the vehicles of man upon their axis (just as planets,
suns and atoms rotate).
Excellent Summary:
The System
receives prana from cosmic sources via three centres, and redistributes it to
all parts of its extended influence, or to the bounds of the solar etheric web.
66.
It
can be presumed that this “solar etheric web” (like the etheric web of man in
relation to his dense physical body) extends beyond the confines of the densely
material solar system.
67.
The
three receptive centers are the analogy to man’s pranic triangle.
This cosmic prana becomes colored by solar
quality and reaches the furthest confines of the system. Its mission might be described as the
vitalisation of the vehicle which is the physical material expression of the
solar Logos.
68.
The
material expression of the Solar Logos is vitalized by cosmic prana colored by
solar quality.
The Planet
receives prana from the solar centre, and redistributes it via the three
receiving centres to all parts of its sphere of influence. This
solar prana becomes colored by the planetary quality and is absorbed by all
evolutions found within the planetary ring-pass-not. Its mission might be described as the
vitalisation of the vehicle which is the physical material expression of one or
other of the seven Heavenly Men.
69.
The
analogy holds good for a Planetary Logos.
70.
We
note the coloring of the received prana by the quality of the recipient.
71.
Similarly,
the dense physical planet is vitalized by planetary prana.
[Page 102]
The Microcosm receives prana from
the sun after it has permeated the planetary etheric vehicle, so that it is
solar prana, plus planetary quality. Each planet is
the embodiment of some one ray aspect, and its quality is marked predominantly
on all its evolution.
72.
We
will need to enter into a point of clarification. Does man, the microcosm,
receive solar prana only after it has permeated the planetary etheric vehicle
(and is thus colored by planetary quality), or do solar pranic devas distribute
solar vitality directly to the etheric body of man.
73.
The
following section shows us the need for caution in this regard:
This is
that vital and magnetic fluid which radiates from the sun, and which is
transmitted to man's etheric body through the agency of certain deva entities
of a very high order, and of a golden hue. It is passed through their bodies
and emitted as powerful radiations, which
are applied direct through certain plexi in the uppermost part of the
etheric body, the head and shoulders, and passed down to the etheric
correspondence of the physical organ, the spleen, and from thence forcibly
transmitted into the spleen itself. (TCF 90)
74.
From
this paragraph, it would seem that the pranic solar devas pass solar vitality directly to the etheric body of man. But
since that etheric body is part of the planetary etheric body, it may stand to
reason that solar prana must first permeate the planetary etheric vehicle
before reaching man.
75.
These
pranic solar devas are, apparently, within the etheric body of the Earth, and
so, they too, may be receiving solar prana not directly from the Sun, but in a mediated manner.
Prana, therefore, which is active
radiatory heat, varies in vibration and quality according to the receiving
Entity. Man passes the prana through his etheric
vehicle, colors it with his own peculiar quality, and so transmits it to the
lesser lives that make up his little system.
76.
The
process continues into man, the microcosm.
77.
A
succinct definition of prana is given: “active radiatory heat”.
78.
Transmitted
prana is always qualified by the by the quality of the transmitter.
79.
In
the section above, “vibration” seems to be differentiated from “quality”,
though both are undoubtedly related.
Thus, the great interaction goes on, and all
parts blend, merge and are interdependent; and all parts receive, color,
qualify and transmit.
80.
A
succinct sequence is given with respect to the flow of prana:
a.
Receive
b.
Color
c.
Qualify
d.
Transmit
81.
This
sequence holds for all types of atoms we are studying.
An endless circulation goes on that has
neither a conceivable beginning nor possible end from the point of view of
finite man, for its source and end are hid in the unknown cosmic fount.
82.
This
is a profound statement. It is not that there is no beginning or end; it is
simply that such are inconceivable to the finite consciousness of man.
83.
The
phrase “unknown cosmic fount” is the cosmic origin of all universal contents.
We might call that “fount” the Universal Logos. The ultimate ORIGIN (and END)
is the ABSOLUTE.
Were conditions everywhere perfected this
circulation would proceed unimpeded and might result in a condition of almost
endless duration, but limitation and termination result as the effects of
imperfection giving place to a gradual perfection.
84.
The
Tibetan is linking perfected conditions (and consequence unimpeded circulation)
to immortality. Imperfection and impediment are the causes of mortality. There
is, however, a gradual approach to perfection.
Every cycle originates from another cycle of
a relative completeness, and will give place ever to a higher spiral; thus
eventuate periods of apparent relative perfection leading to those which are still
greater.
85.
We
are being told that ‘in universe’ there is no completion and perfection. That
which we imagine to be perfect or complete is only relatively so and will give
way to that which is more perfect, more complete.
86.
It is
spiral-cyclic motion which preserves the Law of Analogy, for, as a result of
such motion, there is similitude on all levels of the spiral ladder of ascent.
The aim for
this greater cycle is the blending, as we know, of the two fires of matter,
latent and active, and their merging with the fires of mind and spirit till
they are lost from sight in the general flame; the fires of mind and spirit burn up matter and thereby bring about
liberation from the confining vehicles. The
altar of earth is the birthplace of spirit, its liberator from the mother
(matter), and its entrance into higher realms.
87.
We
are speaking of greater and lesser cycles. There is a cycle (a current cycle)
which has for its objective the development of the fires of matter and their
eventual harmonious blending, followed by the merging of the fires of matter
with the fires of mind and spirit.
88.
What
is the “cycle” of which we are speaking? May it be the cycle known as the
second solar system? The objective for the first solar system certainly did not
involve the blending of the fires of matter with the fires of higher mind, and
a merging with spirit was far from being part of the picture.
89.
In
considering the relationship between the fires of mind and spirit to the fires
of matter, the following is significant: “the fires of mind and spirit burn up
matter”. Another way of saying this is that the fires of mind and spirit
release the higher, inner life/consciousness from confinement within the lower
frequencies of matter. The magnetic integrity of the lower forms is shattered
(following the achievement of the relative perfection of those forms).
90.
DK
refers to the “altar of earth”. Upon this altar is to be found fire. Upon that altar, lower form is
offered to the consuming fires of mind and spirit. Without a voluntary “offering
up” (i.e., sacrifice) there will be no liberation from the fires of matter.
Hence, when
the pranic vehicle is working perfectly in all three groups, human, planetary
and solar, the union with latent fire will be accomplished.
91.
Although
in man, the etheric and dense physical bodies were coordinated long ago (in
Lemuria, we are told), there is not yet a fulfilled union of active, radiatory
fire (prana) with latent fire. This is, apparently, still an objective in this
second solar system (one in which the etheric body as reflector of the soul
aspect is emphasized).
92.
We
are considering a very large picture. We are not considering what consummation
may mean for the human unit. We are seeking to understand the meaning of macrocosmic consummation.
Here lies [Page 103] the reason for the
emphasis laid on the necessity for building pure, refined physical
vehicles. The more refined and rarefied the form, the better a receiver of
prana will it be, and the less will be the resistance found to the uprising of
kundalini at the appointed time.
Coarse matter and crude immature physical bodies are a menace to the
occultist, and no true seer will be
found with a body of a gross quality.
The dangers of disruption are too great, and the menace of
disintegration by fire too awful.
93.
DK
now speaks of the importance of building dense physical vehicles of quality and
refinement. We have learned that the health of the etheric body determines the
extent to which prana can be absorbed. We now focus on the physical body and
its ability to receive and absorb prana. The “more refined and rarefied” the
physical form, the better receiver and assimilator of prana it will be.
Further, a refined and rarefied physical form will offer less resistance to the
rising of kundalini, when the time for that rising comes.
94.
This
means that the physical body is important in the process of fiery
transformation. We are told that disruption and disintegration are the fate of
occultists who fail to refine the physical vehicle.
95.
Another
important hint is given: “no true seer will be found with a body of a gross
quality”. What is suggested is that the seeing of such a seer will be false,
glamorous, full of illusion. General grossness and
bodily impurities will prevent true reception.
96.
It is
also hinted that the proper rising of the kundalini will lead to seership.
97.
There
is an equivalence between the true occultist and the
true seer.
Once in the history of the race (in Lemurian
days) this was seen in the destruction of the race and the continents by means
of fire.45
The Guides of the race at that time availed Themselves of just
this very thing to bring about the finish of an inadequate form. The latent fire of matter (as seen in
volcanic display, for instance) and the radiatory fire of the system were
combined. Planetary kundalini and solar
emanation rushed into conjunction, and the work of destruction was
accomplished.
(45: In the Secret Doctrine, Vol. I, p. 473, footnote, the destruction of Lemuria by
fire is hinted at, and in the Secret Doctrine, II, 149, footnote, the words
occur, "Lemuria was not submerged but was destroyed by volcanic action,
and afterward sank.")
98.
The
Tibetan speaks of the destruction of Lemuria by fire.
99.
We
note that the Guides of the race do not permit the perpetuation of inadequate forms.
Such correction through destruction is the responsibility of the Manu and His
Department.
100.
If we
are seeking to understand a graphic example of the “latent fire of matter” we
have but to look to volcanic action.
101.
In
this context, “planetary kundalini” is equated to the “latent fire of matter”.
102.
We
note, however, that it took two fires
to bring about the necessary destruction—both planetary kundalini and solar
emanation.
103.
The
civilization on Lemuria was, we are told, very materially oriented. It seems
justifiable, then, that this civilization and probably many lands on which it
occurred, should be destroyed by the fires of matter.
The same thing may again be seen, only in
matter of the second ether, and the effects therefore will be less severe owing to the
rarity of this ether and the comparatively greater refinement of the vehicles.
104.
DK
turns prophetic, but does not give much detail regarding the type of
destruction which may occur or when it may be expected.
105.
The
causal body is found for advanced man, disciples and initiates upon the second
subplane of the systemic mental plane. A great destruction occurs on this
second subplane (at the time of the fourth initiation), and there may be an
analogy between this destruction and the destruction in matter of the second
ether here hinted.
106.
Will
such a destruction occur in this round or in a future round (for instance, at
the “Judgment Day”)?
We might
here note a fact of interest, though of a mystery insoluble as yet to most of
us, and that is, that these destructions by fire are part of the tests by fire
of an initiation of that one of the Heavenly Men Whose karma is bound up with
our earth.
107.
This
is a most interesting hint, and, as the Tibetan says, “insoluble
as yet to most of us”.
108.
There
are a number of Heavenly Men whose karma may be considered bound up with our
Earth. Really, all the Heavenly Men would seem to be karmically bound to each
other. But the Logos most related to
the Logos of Earth, is the Logos of Venus, and perhaps
it is the Venusian Heavenly Man Who is referenced here.
109.
The
Lemurian civilization had much to do with Venus and fifth ray (the ray largely
responsible for the individualization process, which occurred in middle period
of the Lemurian rootrace).
110.
The
Aryan rootrace is the fifth and its manner of eventual destruction is not fully
given, though the manner of its attempted
destruction is discussed.
Fire was an
outstanding aspect [Page 587] of the war. Fire is produced by physical means
and the aid of the mineral kingdom and this was the great menacing and chosen
means of destruction in this war. This is a fulfilment of the ancient prophecy
that the attempt to destroy the Aryan race will be by means of fire, just as
ancient Atlantis was destroyed by water. But, fiery goodwill and the conscious focussed
use of the Shamballa force can counter fire by fire and this must be done. (EA 586-587)
111.
Venus
has a close connection to the Aryan rootrace, because it is the fifth rootrace.
112.
There
are ways in which Venus will also be related to the sixth rootrace, because
there is much of the numbers two and six in the constitution of Venus. It
will be a rootrace in which the monad will come into greater prominence. The
monad, we realize, is located on the second subplane of the cosmic physical
plane, and this subplane has a natural relation to the second ether mentioned
by DK as the location of a later process of destruction.
113.
Interestingly,
modern investigation of Venus has revealed its physical nature as hot, volcanic
and fiery.
Each destruction of a portion of the web results in a greater facility of exit, and is
in reality (when seen from the higher planes) a step forward and an
expansion. A repetition of this takes
place likewise in the system at the stated cycles.
114.
Venus
and Sirius figure prominently in the initiatory process of man. Venus is also
related to the initiatory process of our Planetary Logos and Sirius to the
initiatory process of our Solar Logos.
115.
Initiation
connotes liberation through the agency of fire. It may be that the fiery
influences of Venus and Sirius are active in destroying (however gradually) the
etheric web so that man may gain a greater facility of exit.
116.
We
note that the web is not destroyed all at once. Every initiation promotes
greater facility of exit. By the time the fourth initiation is reached, all
matter in the personality vehicles is atomic matter, and there exists the
possibility of escape onto the buddhic plane (a higher correspondence to the
astral plane).