Fellowship
of Cosmic Fire
Commentary
Semester VII Section XIV, Part II
TCF 915-925 : S7S14
29 September - 15 October 2008
(Most of the Tibetan’s text is put in font 16, to
provide better legibility when projected during classes. Footnotes and references from other AAB Books and from other pages of
TCF are put in font 14. Commentary appears in font 12.
Underlining, Bolding and Highlighting by MDR)
It is suggested that this
Commentary be read with the TCF book handy, for the sake of
continuity. As analysis of the text is pursued, many paragraphs are divided,
and the compact presentation in the book, itself, will convey the overall meaning of the paragraph. So please read an entire paragraph and then
study the Commentary
The devas of the ethers
1.
We are now speaking of the devas of generically violet hue
carry on their
foreheads a translucent symbol
2.
A symbol through which light passes or is radiated…
3.
One is also reminded of the lighted condition of the ethers which
is desirable, even though these devas are called “devas of the shadows”.
in the form of a
crescent moon,
4.
The Moon is the ruler of the sign Cancer, the color of which, as
given by the Tibetan, is violet.
5.
The Moon is also the ruler of the seventh manifested
Creative Hierarchy, ruled by the seventh ray (a ray so intimately related to
the embodiment of the form). This, as well, is the meaning of the Moon—the
“Mother of the form”. The color of the seventh ray is violet. The seventh ray
is easily seen, therefore, to be associated with the rhythmically cyclic Moon.
6.
In this symbol we see the etheric, form-building significances of
the Moon. It is also associated with the dense physical body, which is not
considered a principle in this solar system.
7.
It would seem that the symbol designates the function of form
production. As far as the physical plane is concerned, this function originates
on the etheric plane and is facilitated by the violet devas.
and by this they may
be distinguished from the astral devas by those able to see clairvoyantly.
8.
This seems an important piece of occult information.
9.
We have been told that when the astral and etheric-physical planes
begin to merge, it will be at first difficult to distinguish the devic lives of
the two planes.
10.
May we think that astral devas also carry a kind of symbol which
suggests their function?
11.
It is significant that such devas (etheric devas specifically)
actually have “foreheads”! Perhaps this tells us much about their appearance
and their at least partial resemblance to the form of man. We have much to
learn about devic form.
12.
The directed vision of such violet devas (through the forehead, the
place in man for the ajna vortex) is towards form production.
As we consider the
devas of the ethers, we find that they fall
naturally—as far as manifestation is concerned—into two main groups.
13.
We are now, it seems, speaking of devas rather than elementals. We
always have to monitor the focus of our topic carefully. The Tibetan seems to
switch quickly between speaking of devas or of elementals.
14.
DK speaks of “two main groups”, but let us see how these groups
relate to the four different kinds of devas—one type for each subplane of the
etheric plane.
Each group is represented on each of the four
subplanes, and this grouping must be considered as but one method of
differentiation out of the many possible.
15.
He seems to suggest that the two main groupings are each to be
found on each
of the etheric subplanes.
16.
If there are four main types of devas (of four distinct shades of
purple or violet) then there will be, in all, eight different classifications.
17.
Again, we must notice that there are many ways of
differentiating the devas (and elementals) to be found
on the systemic etheric subplanes. Before we could understand such ways, we
would have to know just how many different types of devas and elementals are to
be found on the systemic etheric subplanes.
18.
It is always necessary to remind ourselves of the group of devas
which are under discussion. We are speaking of the devas
of the systemic ethers.
These groups are, first,
those devas who are the transmitters of prana to all
forms of life; they are a group of intermediary devas, and may be
regarded as the energy providers in their
various differentiations; secondly, those
devas who form the etheric bodies of every form in manifestation. These constitute the bulk of the lesser
devas.
19.
When we look at the two main groups found on each etheric subplane,
we realize that they are hierarchicalized. One group is higher or more evolved
than the other.
20.
The first group are “transmitters of prana
to all forms of life”. It would seem that this is the more dynamic of
the two main groups.
21.
We must see why DK calls them a “group of intermediary devas”.
Between what and what are they intermediary? Usually, manipulating devas are
considered intermediary between transmitting devas and more passive, devas who
are part of established structures.
22.
We will visit the term “intermediary” later in the Commentary. We
will see that these transmitters of prana are much associated with the second
aspect and the second ray. They are influenced by the "Transmitter of the
Word" (the transmitting devas associated with the Father aspect).
23.
This group of pranic transmitters is definitely differentiated. We
can certainly understand that there would be at least four
differentiations—one for each etheric subplane.
24.
The second type of deva within the two main groups are “those who
form the etheric bodies of every form in manifestation”—biologically ‘living’
and also apparently inanimate.
25.
Here we are dealing with lesser devas. Notice they are still devas,
apparently, and not elementals per se. This is an important distinction
at this point.
26.
We must focus on the word “form”. Does it mean, “give
form to”, or does it mean “go to the formation of”? Obviously the first wording
suggests greater dynamism and the second wording, more passivity. The first wording suggest the possible function of manipulating devas.
So we will have to be alert to this question.
27.
It would seem that those devas “who form the etheric bodies of every
form in manifestation” must be considered manipulating devas and not elementals
of any kind.
28.
As for “transmitters of prana”, it would appear that we have to
classify them as “transmitting devas”, along with those greater devas who are
"Transmitters of the Word".
29.
In earlier texts, DK spoke of transmitting devas, manipulating
devas and “recipients of force” (are they devas at all or are they elementals).
30.
It is clear that in the important paragraph above, DK is speaking
only of transmitting devas and of manipulating devas but not of elemental
“recipients of force” or elemental essence on the involutionary arc.
There are naturally many other organised intelligences in the great Army of
the Voice in connection with this primary division of the physical plane,
31.
Can a being be an “organized intelligence” and still not be
self-conscious?
32.
In a large and general way we are dealing with the Army of the
Voice. The devas and elementals under discussion in
this section of text, are all members of the Army of the Voice because they
respond to immediately to sound.
33.
As always, the question is, “whose voice”? There are great
Voices and far lesser voices such as the voice of man.
34.
When dealing with the Army of the Voice, it would seem that some
members are self-conscious and highly evolved and other are still somewhat in
the category of blind forces—unconscious, passive, receptive, relatively inert.
but if the student will consider these two
groups, and will investigate their relationship to man and to the Heavenly
Man within Whose body they are to be found, he will learn much which will
enable him to comprehend problems hitherto considered insoluble,
35.
This is very promising.
36.
In general we have devas responsible for the dynamic movement of
energy (the energy of prana), and we have the devas
responsible (either forming or going to the formation of) more stable etheric
structures through which pranic energy is transmitted. The ‘structural and
structuring devas’ (can we call them that) are of lower orders than the
transmitting devas—whether it is the “Word” that is transmitted or prana.
37.
Perhaps it is because of these two main groups of devas that, in
listings of man’s seven principles, both the etheric body and prana are
listed as principles (though really, only one of them is).
38.
Obviously, the principle known as “prana” is closely allied with
the “transmitters of prana” and the principle known in some tabulations as the
etheric body is closely allied with the ‘structural and structuring devas’.
and will find many things
[Page 916] revealed which will tend to revolutionise the findings of
modern science, and bring about changes in the care of the physical body.
39.
We all realize that the health of the physical body lies in the
proper care of the etheric body.
40.
Modern science seeks to unlock the mysteries of the form. In the
work of these two types of devas these secrets seem to be concealed.
41.
As we consider the two groups and their relationship, we must
remember that on all the systemic planes there are subplanes which correspond
more to the systemic dense physical subplanes and those which correspond more
to the etheric subplanes. In this respect, every systemic plane has its
quasi-dense and quasi-etheric portion.
42.
Latent heat accords with the quasi-dense portions and active or
radiatory heat with the quasi-etheric portions.
The Devas and Energy. Before we take up the consideration
of these two groups it might be wise here to emphasise the necessity of
remembering that when we consider the etheric levels of the physical
plane we are dealing with those planes upon which the true
form is to be found, and are
approaching the solution of the mystery of the Holy Spirit and the Mother.
43.
What is “true form”? It is not the aggregation (or “congestion”) of
dense physical matter that appears on the lowest two systemic subplanes.
Rather, it is the energy-form on the etheric plane which causes such
aggregations/concretions/congestions to appear.
44.
The Holy Spirit, therefore, relates to the etheric levels and the
Mother to the dense physical levels.
In this realisation, and its
extension to include an entire solar system, will come a clarifying of the
connection between the four higher planes of the system and the three worlds of
human endeavour.
45.
The cosmic etheric planes are formative, the home of true forms
when considering the entirety of the cosmic physical plane. The lower three
worlds are formed rather than formative. No true forms
exist upon them, but only aggregations formed by the formative potencies of the
cosmic physical plane.
We have, in the macrocosm,
the four planes of super-conscious life,
46.
These are the cosmic etheric planes, the four highest systemic
subplanes on the cosmic physical plane.
47.
Technically, the systemic subplanes on which the causal body is to
be found are not to be considered sub-planes of super-conscious life.
or those four
central vibrations which are the basis of the life and energy of the etheric body of
a planetary Logos and of a solar Logos,
48.
These cosmic etheric subplanes are certainly etheric with respect
to the Solar Logos, but, as we have often pointed out, for the Planetary Logos
another factor may be operative. Could it be that for the Planetary Logos, the
higher mental plane is, in some sense, to be considered the ‘lowest ether’?
49.
There are pros and cons to this question and we cannot explore it
extensively here.
50.
Note the phrase “four central vibrations”. It gives a different
image from the apparent ‘stacking of the planes’—as planes are so often
represented in two dimensional diagrams.
and the three planes
of conscious and of self-conscious life which form the dense physical vehicle
of a Heavenly Man, and of the Grand Man of the Heavens.
51.
On these three lower planes both conscious and
self-conscious life exists. It goes without saying that it is possible to be
conscious without being self-conscious.
52.
Here again we have to proceed carefully. The dense physical vehicle
of the Solar Logos is found upon the entirety of the lower three planes, and
includes the higher mental subplanes.
53.
However, what are usually called the “lower three worlds” are the
physical vehicle of the Heavenly Man and these do not include the subplanes of
the higher mental plane. In other references this seems an irrefutable
inference.
By a close scrutiny of these
conditions in the macrocosm and in the microcosm will come a comprehension of
the reason why the physical vehicle is never considered a principle at all by occultists.
54.
Presumably “close scrutiny” will reveal what is causative and what
is caused. That which is relatively passive and has no originating energy in
our solar system cannot be considered a principle (an integral energy-aspect of
our solar system).
The Holy Spirit, the One Who overshadows and
Who implants the germ of life in the waiting acquiescent Virgin Mother or matter (causing
her to awaken and to commence her great work of producing the divine
incarnation) is a primary factor from the standpoint of the
second solar system.
55.
The Holy Spirit, therefore, presents (in relation to the
dense physical plane) the third aspect of our present second ray solar system.
The Mother presents the third aspect of the system preceding our own—a
third ray solar system.
56.
When we think of the Holy Spirit, we must realize that it represents
the second aspect and the second ray, even though presenting the third
aspect and the third ray. This is not the case for dense physical matter per
se.
In a way incomprehensible to
modern thinkers,
57.
Incomprehensible certainly to those thinkers who know nothing of
occultism, but also more than obscure even to the modern student of occultism…
the Mother,
or the divine Aspirant to the mysteries of the cosmic marriage, was (in a
previous system) the dominant factor.
58.
If there was an etheric body in the previous solar system (as it
seems there must have been) it did not dominate, apparently, the matter aspect.
59.
It is interesting to think of matter as Mother and Mother as the
“divine Aspirant to the mysteries of the cosmic marriage”. DK seems to be
speaking of the union of matter with Spirit. This we can interpret as the
“cosmic marriage”.
60.
The Mother is the “divine Aspirant” (note, divine) because
she must be uplifted through contact with Father Spirit. She aspires towards
elevation and union with Spirit.
61.
This is another way of saying that that the energy-force of matter
reaches upward towards Spirit, yearning to merge with it.
62.
When we think of this type of aspiration, the mode of
individualization found within the first solar system and upon the Moon-chain
comes to mind. It took place precisely through such aspiration or upreaching of
matter towards Spirit.
In this system in connection with substance it is the Holy Spirit.
63.
DK is telling us that in this solar system, the Holy Spirit is the dominant
factor—dominant, at least, over matter.
64.
Also, with respect to the union of Spirit and dense physical matter,
that union is mediated via the Holy Spirit, the etheric energy which
transmits the energy of Spirit to passive, dense matter.
65.
We can say that the marriage of matter with Spirit is not yet
complete. Perhaps this will occur towards the end of our present solar system.
66.
Will dense matter of the kind prevalent in our solar system remain
after our solar system? May it be that in the next solar system the substance
of the ethers will be the lowest type of matter extant?
The work, therefore, on
etheric levels, and the energy and activity originating therefrom, are
the factors that primarily are responsible on the physical [Page
917] plane for all that is tangible, objective, and manifested.
67.
While this is, in a sense, an occult platitude, it is necessary for
us to really absorb its meaning.
68.
Tangibility, objectivity and manifestation in dense matter are all
etherically propelled.
69.
If we want to live a causative life, we have to learn to
manage physical plane life from an etheric point of polarization.
The accretion of matter around
the vital body, and the densification of substance around the
vital etheric nucleus are in themselves the result of interaction, and
the final interchange of vibration between that which might be called
the residue from an earlier manifestation, and the vibration of this
present one.
70.
The description is straightforward. The words “accretion” and
“densification” are highly descriptive of the relationship between dense
physical matter and etheric substance.
71.
Dense physical matter is a “residue” from the previous solar system
and it is being magnetised and reconditioned by the etheric vibration of the
present solar system.
72.
We are given an intriguing phrase—“the final interchange of
vibration”. Two levels of vibration are, as it were, exchanging vibrations.
There is a mutual conditioning in process. However, ultimately, it will be the
residual substance of the previous solar system that is reconditioned and not
the principled ethers of our present solar system.
73.
There may have been a recapitulatory time in our planetary scheme
when dense matter was stronger than etheric matter, but that time has long
passed. Initiatory achievement in the Lemurian period of our globe (in the
third rootrace of this fourth round) concerned precisely the balance between
etheric substance and dense physical matter. Initiation necessitated that
etheric substance prevail.
It is here—in the relation
between positive electrical energy in its fourfold differentiation,
and the triple negative receptive lower substance—that scientists
will eventually arrive at certain definite deductions and discover:
74.
Here are important prophecies.
75.
Scientists will study the interplay between positive and negative
electrical energy.
76.
The systemic ethers are the proximate source (for the dense
physical plane) of “positive electrical energy”.
77.
The dense physical matter of the lowest three subplanes of the
systemic physical plane is called “the triple negative receptive lower
substance”.
78.
“Negative receptive lower substance” is identical with those types
of involutionary lesser builders called “recipients of force”.
a. The
secret of matter itself, that is, matter as we know and see it.
79.
DK is speaking of dense physical matter and not of etheric substance.
80.
He is speaking of a “secret”. May it be that we are dealing with
the manner in which dense physical matter is constructed—a construction
underlay by etheric constituents?
81.
We know today that matter and energy are equivalent. Dense physical
matter can always be decomposed into etheric energy, and etheric energy
densified into dense physical matter.
b. The key
to the process of creation upon the physical plane, and the method
whereby density and concretion on the three lower levels are brought about.
82.
This is somewhat understandable. With regard to the systemic
physical plane, the truly formative forces are to be found upon the etheric
subplanes of that plane.
83.
The present study of morphogenic fields is a step in this
direction.
84.
It is clear that, by pursuing this thought, we would be entering
the field of practical magic—the precipitation into dense physical form of
subtle, etheric patterns.
c.
The formulas for organic transmutation, or the
key to the processes whereby the elements as we know them can be disintegrated
and recombined.
85.
The word “organic” is interesting. We are probably not speaking of
the distinction between so-called “organic” and “in-organic” matter. It is
likely that we are speaking of the manner in which matter is organized and
disorganized.
86.
We are dealing with one of the secrets of alchemy—the transmutation
of one element into another. This is elementary ‘shape-shifting’.
87.
Of course, so-called “organic” forms of life can also be
transmuted—the kingdom in which they express raised to
the next higher kingdom.
Only when scientists are prepared
to admit the fact that there is a body of vitality which acts as a focal
point in every organised form, and only when they are willing to consider each
element and form of every degree as constituting part of a still greater vital
body, will the true methods of the great goddess Nature become their
methods.
88.
Scientists must admit not only the presence of a vital body in
every organized form but the presence of a greater vital body of which each
lesser vital body is a part. Can this realization of
incorporation of the lesser into the greater can be considered an aspect
of “unified field theory” from the occult perspective?
89.
Nature is called “the great goddess”, a representative it would
seem, of the Divine Feminine aspect.
90.
The implication is that the methods of present scientists are out
of harmony with the “true methods of the great goddess”.
91.
Nature, we are led to believe, works creatively and constructively
through the etheric subplanes and their interactive relationship with the dense
physical subplanes.
92.
On a microcosmic level, it is time for all students of spirituality
to attempt to focus with a requisite degree of ‘etheric attentiveness’ as they
attempt to bring about desirable changes within the dense physical mechanism.
To do this they must be prepared to accept
the sevenfold differentiation of the physical plane as stated by Eastern
occultism, to recognise the triple nature of the septenary manifestation.
93.
Fortunately, there are many enlightened scientists today who are
willing to do so. Gradually, confirmatory experimentation is made and
resistance fades away.
94.
Every sevenfold system is resolvable into three primary parts. The
seven rays can be derived from the major three.
95.
Below DK differentiates the subplanes of the systemic physical
plane according to the method 1—3—3.
a. The
atomic or Shiva energy, the energy of the first subplane or the
first etheric plane.
96.
With respect to the systemic physical plane, the atomic subplane is
the ‘archetypal subplane’. Correspondingly, and with respect to the
cosmic physical plane, the systemic logoic plane is the archetypal plane.
b. The vital
form building energy of the three ensuing etheric levels.
97.
If the archetypal pattern emerges on the first subplane, the
building processes (correlated with the second aspect) occur within and upon
the lower three systemic ethers.
98.
From the chakric perspective, the head center found upon the atomic
subplane is involved with the presentation of the ‘pattern of purpose’. The
heart, throat and other chakras (the other six) are involved in various ways in
building into form the pattern of that purpose.
c.
The negative receptive energy of the
three planes [Page 918] of the dense physical, the
gaseous, the liquid and the truly dense.
99.
Here we have the work of the ‘structural and structuring devas’,
the more passive builders. They are made to embody the etheric patterns which
reflect the purpose/pattern emerging on the atomic subplane. Their response to
the etheric pattern is quite automatic.
100. We must differentiate
between those manipulating devas (on the evolutionary arc) who work on the
lowest subplanes of matter and the elemental essences of those subplanes which
is entirely passive, receptive and worked upon.
101. The ‘structural and
structuring” devas are the lowest of the devas
and are truly lesser builders, but they are far above the elemental essence
which is truly passive and receptive and moulded into form by the manipulating
devas.
102. These manipulating devas
are ‘structuring energy fields’ which create form out of elemental essence.
They will also eventually
consider the interplay between the lower three and the higher four in
that great atom called the physical plane.
103. It appears that each systemic
plane is to be considered a great atom. This would also apply to the entire
cosmic physical plane as a cosmic atom.
104. It appears that planes are
not only atoms but spirillae as well. What we call a plane depends upon the
context in which we are considering it.
This can be seen duplicated in the atom of the
physicist or chemist.
105. There is a
certain interchangeability, depending on the perspective, between the
atom and a spirilla. What may be considered an atom from one perspective,
may be a spirilla from another and higher perspective.
Scientific students who are interested in
these matters will find it worth while to consider the correspondence
between these three types of energy, and that which is understood by the words,
atoms, electrons, and ions.
106. The details of this will
have to be worked out by the more scientifically educated members of our group.
There are such.
107. We are dealing with the
forces of the atomic subplane, the three lesser etheric subplanes, and the
three dense subplanes (in three “states” of matter).
108. It is quite clear that
electrons will be associated with the forces of the dense subplanes. Ions are
charged particles and represent polarity. Their position then,
would seem to fit with the forces of the three lower ethers. The atom itself
would seem best correlated with the forces of the atomic subplane.
Insert from Dr. Jose Becerra:
I realized
that "the words "proton"
(discovered by
So, I think that DK meant protons
(positive), electrons (negatives) and neutrons
(vital form building energy). "Ions" may
be a loose term for isotopes of an element, but the analogy seems to fit better
with the -1, 0, +1 symmetry of the electron (-1), neutron (0) and proton (+1).
Interestingly, neutrons and protons are made up of 3 quarks each (to keep
the 1: 3: 3).
AAB and DK do mention "positive
electricity"
Life is as positive electricity, substance negative. Life is dynamic, substance static. Life is
activity or spirit, and substance form or matter. Life is the father and
begets, substance is the mother and conceives. -The Soul and its Mechanism 58
TCF 325: man is essentially positive in his own
nature but his vehicles are negative; hence he is the central unit of positive electricity that draws and holds to
him atoms of an opposite polarity.
TCF 482: positive electricity, or with the energy of the positive nucleus of
force within the atom, whether it is the atom of
chemistry, for instance, or the human atom.
TCF 492: Fire by friction, the negative
electricity of substance, has been for some time the subject of the attention
of exoteric science, and investigation of the nature of positive electricity has become possible
through the discovery of radium.
[JB] As the nucleus of an atom contains
both neutrons and protons (except for Hydrogen
with a proton only), the nucleus of any atom is positive (because protons
are positive and neutrons carry no charge).
The word "ion" could have referred to
the process of radioactive decay (as in radium, interestingly, atomic number =88=number of protons). As it decays, radium gives off alpha
particles, beta particles (electrons or positron), and gamma rays (light).
Alpha particles consist of two protons and two neutrons bound together into a
particle identical to a helium nucleus, a highly ionizing form of particle radiation.
An ion is an atom which has lost or gained one or more electrons, giving
it a positive or negative electrical charge. Ionization is the physical
process of converting an atom into an ion by adding or removing charged
particles such as electrons. Examples of ionizing
radiation are beta particles, neutrons, and alpha
particles (as described in the radioactive decay of radium).
-JB
All that manifests (from God to
man)84 is the result of these three types
of energy or force, of their combination, their interplay, and their
psychic action and reaction.
109. We are speaking generally
of the interplay of positive force, negative force and equilibrizing force.
110. We are dealing with a manifestational
trinity of forces—1—3—3. It has broad implications microcosmically and
macrocosmically. If we wish to study and apply the magical/creative process, a
study of the interplay of these three forces is inevitable.
Footnote 84: The Secret Doctrine says that:
God, Monad, and Atom are
the correspondences of Spirit, Mind and Body.—S. D., I, 679.
111. The really interesting
correlation here is that of Monad with Mind. Of course, the Monad is the
architect of all patterns which materialize on the lower five systemic planes.
The Logos is manifesting
in this mahamanvantara as Manas (the Divine Manasaputras in their totality) utilising
atomic sheaths for purposes of evolution and with the aim in view of
developing the second aspect of buddhi or wisdom.
112. We presume that DK is
speaking of the Solar Logos as He mentions the mahamanvantara—the time unit
which correlates with the life demonstration of the Solar Logos.
113. The “Divine Manasaputras in
their totality” include all the Planetary Logoi and all the lesser Manasaputras
such as Solar Angels.
114. There is something here
that should not escape our notice: wisdom is given as the second
aspect of buddhi. Presumably, love is the first aspect.
115. In a way, wisdom is ‘older’
than ‘love’, relating more to the previous solar system.
Wisdom must have manas, or intelligent mind
for its basis.
116. Manas, here, correlates with the material/substantial sheaths through which
consciousness develops.
117. Buddhi is based upon manas
just as wisdom is based upon knowledge.
He [the Solar Logos] is the
sumtotal of Intelligence, evolving in order to develop Love.
118. We are speaking of the
relationship between the Primordial Ray and the Divine Ray emerging from and
through primordial processes.
119. We are dealing with the
relationship between the great third ray and third aspect and the emerging
second ray and second aspect.
During the great cycle of logoic
appearance it is the second type of energy which dominates
120. The word “dominates” is all
important as it points to the musical “dominant”—the tone known as the “fifth”,
the note of the soul and of the second aspect and second ray.
and which is of
evolutionary importance,
121. It is the second ray and
second aspect which must unfold.
122. The focus of this
particular solar system is not the evolution of matter but, rather, the
evolution of consciousness.
and this
is why the etheric body which lies back of all that is visible is the
most important.
123. The etheric body and prana
are often considered as principles. The etheric body represents the evolving
second aspect. It has a close connection to both subtle and more tangible solar
energy. In this instance solar energy represents the great second
aspect.
124. The etheric body (in its
higher functions) represents the Sun and the second aspect (though the violet
devas of the systemic etheric subplanes are also related to the Moon). The
dense physical body represents the Moon and the third aspect.
125. In our solar system and on
our planet particularly, the second ray and second aspect must triumph over the
third ray and third aspect.
This is equally true of gods, of men and of atoms.
126. In our solar system, this
type of triumph must be engineered within all these three spheres of divine
activity.
Much time is spent in speculating
upon the sources of life, upon the springs of
action, and upon the impulses which underlie the creative
processes.
127. This section of text
references the much explored question of the “origin of life” and, in greater
context, of the “cause of the universe”.
Hitherto science has worked somewhat blindly and has spent much
time investigating the lower three planes.
128. It is natural at first to
become preoccupied with the obvious. Occultism, however, calls for a deeper and
subtler search.
It has dealt principally with the Mother, with the negative
receptive matter, and is only now becoming aware of the Holy Spirit
aspect, or of the energy which enables that Mother to fulfill her function, and
to carry on her work.
129. All this is very clear. The
Holy Spirit represents the Sun and the second aspect and acts upon the
negative, Mother aspect in that role as Representative.
130. The Holy Spirit is, in a
way, the third aspect representing the second. The Mother is the third aspect
representing only the third.
131. The “Mother” is closely
related to the densest elemental life, upon the systemic physical plane.
132. Science is now becoming
aware of the “Holy Spirit aspect”.
Considering the same problem microcosmically it may be pointed out
that men are only now beginning to be [Page 919] aware of
the springs of spiritual action, and of the sources of spiritual
life.
133. The etheric body is deeply
connected with all the subtle vehicles and is the conduit through which they
naturally express.
134. The real “springs of
spiritual action” originate on subplanes and planes above the eighteen lower
subplanes.
135. Such “springs” are to be
found originally within the Ego within the causal body, the true Ego on the
higher two planes of the spiritual triad, and, ultimately (as far as man is
concerned) within the Monad.
The energy of the higher planes is only revealing itself as men begin to
tread the Way,
136. To “tread the Way” is to
open a conduit from the lower planes to the higher and the higher planes to the
lower.
137. To “tread the Way” is to
invoke and entertain unaccustomed energies of a higher nature. There are
also unaccustomed (i.e., long forgotten) energies of a lower nature with
which man should have nothing to do.
and to come under the
influence of buddhi, which flows from the fourth cosmic etheric plane.
138. To tread the Way is to
approach the soul which, upon the higher mental plane, is the representative of
buddhi.
139. DK has frequently discussed
the relationship between the buddhic plane and the fourth systemic ether. This
relationship is now emergent for all advanced and
sensitive people, though they may not be able to describe the relationship in
occult terminology.
140. We can see that DK is
offering many procedural suggestions to those of scientific inclination. If
they follow His suggestions they will be rewarded with unsuspected
realizations.
Finally, when scientists are
willing to recognise and to co-operate with the intelligent forces
that are to be found on etheric levels,
141. Such forces seem to be
manipulating devas and not elemental forces, though even these are guided by
intelligence—an intelligence not their own.
142. One cannot “cooperate” with
blind, unintelligent forces.
and when they become
convinced of the hylozoistic
nature of all that exists,
143. The cleavage between
“organic” and “inorganic”, between ‘living matter’ and ‘dead matter’ will end.
their findings and
their work will be brought into a more accurate correspondence with things as
they really are.
144. This is all part of the
general etheric/dense alignment. It is the approximation between Uranus and
Saturn, between the seventh ray and the third.
145. It is interesting that the
seventh ray represents substance and the third ray the densest matter which
substance substands.
This, as has been earlier pointed out, will be
brought about as the race develops etheric vision, and the
truth of the contentions of the occultist is proved past all controversy.
146. These developments are
under way through changes in the ethers as well as changes in the sensitivity
of the eye.
147. Occultism does not have to
be believed. Its tenets will be proven. H.P.B. suggests that this
proof must occur before the end of the twenty-first century.
It will have been noted that in
the enumeration of these two main groups, we did not touch upon that great
group of Builders who are called esoterically "Those who transmit
the Word."
148. It seems fairly evident
then, that the highest group of devas are “Those who transmit the Word”.
Rather, we have been dealing with one group of transmitting devas
(“transmitters of prana”) and one group of manipulating devas (“those devas who
form the etheric bodies of every form in manifestation”), as discussed in the
reference below.
149. The members of the “two
main groups” are still “devas”. The lowest members are not elementals,
apparently.
150. We remind ourselves of the
following:
These groups are, first,
those devas who are the transmitters of prana to all forms of life; they
are a group of intermediary devas, and may be regarded as the energy
providers in their various differentiations; secondly, those
devas who form the etheric bodies of every form in manifestation. These constitute the bulk of the lesser
devas.
I have only dealt with the two groups who constitute the "Army
of the Voice." This is due to
the fact that in this section we are only dealing with that army, or with those
builders, great and small, who are swept into activity as the Word of the
physical plane sounds forth.
151. Both manipulating devas and
recipients of forces (elementals) are swept into activity by the transmitted
Word.
152. But can we call
“transmitters of prana” “manipulating devas”? Perhaps not. Perhaps they must
indeed be called “transmitters”. Yet they are swept into activity by the
"Transmitters of the Word" just as manipulating devas and elementals
are.
153. When looking at three
categories of devas (not elementals) of the systemic etheric plane we
have:
a.
"Transmitters of the Word"
b.
“Transmitters of Prana”
c.
‘Formulators of the etheric bodies of every form in manifestation’
d.
Elementals, per se, are not listed among these three.
154. In the foregoing section of
text, we have been dealing, therefore, with only the central and lowest
category of etheric devas.
155. It becomes apparent that
the “Transmitters of the Word” are not members of the “Army of the Voice”. Two
groups constitute the Army of the Voice on the etheric-physical plane—the
“transmitters of prana” and the ‘structural, structuring or formulating devas’
who form the etheric bodies of every form in manifestation.
156. Yet there are other
references which greatly extent the scope of the Army of the Voice and which
seem to suggest that some very high devas on the cosmic etheric planes (could
they by transmitting devas) are involved in that Army. (cf. R&I 179)
The "Transmitters of the
Word" upon the first subplane or atomic level are those who take up the
vibratory sound as it reaches them from the astral plane and—passing it through
their bodies—send it forth to the remaining subplanes.
157. Here we have the manner in
which the “Transmitters of the Word” work. From whence have they received the
“Word”? Has it passed to them via other “Transmitters” through the connection
between all atomic subplanes of all planes, or has it reached them from some of
the lower levels of the astral plane, having passed through the bodies of the
central and lesser devas of that plane?
158. There are, we may suppose,
two methods by which the transmission can reach them as there is said to be a
direct atomic channel.
159. One thing is clear—the
vibratory sound reaches them via the astral plane, from whatever other source
it may originate.
These transmitters may be, for
purposes of clarity, considered as seven in number.
160. Are we speaking of only seven
transmitters (just as there were only twelve of certain extra-planetary devas
from another planetary scheme supervising violet, green and white deva groups)
or of seven groups or types of transmitters?
161. Are we speaking of—
a.
Seven "Transmitters of the Word" found on the atomic
level of the etheric-physical plane? (This seems the most likely option, as the
word “Transmitters” is plural and is associated with the etheric atomic
subplane).
b.
Seven "Transmitters of the Word", each one found upon one
of the systemic atomic planes? Thus, only one "Transmitter of the
Word" found upon the atomic subplane of the etheric-physical plane. (Maybe
this applies for that very highest “Transmitter”—possibly a Raja Deva Lord—Who
is the sum of the proposed seven “Transmitters”)
c.
Seven groups of "Transmitters of the Word" to be
found upon the atomic level of the etheric-physical plane? (Of course,
differentiations and subdivisions are inevitable.)
d.
Seven groups of "Transmitters of the Word", one group of
the seven to be found on each of the atomic subplanes of each systemic plane?
e.
DK did not speak of what is transpiring on other systemic planes
with respect to "Transmitters of the Word", but one may infer that
they will, necessarily, be found on the atomic levels of those systemic planes.
162. If there are, as we
suspect, seven "Transmitters of the Word" to be found on the atomic
level of the etheric-physical plane, then each one of them must be connected to
one of the seven ray streams.
163. We will see later that
there is a close connection, and even an identity between a
"Transmitter of the Word" and a Raja Deva Lord If this is the case,
then there will be only one principal "Transmitter of the
Word" on the atomic level of the etheric-physical plane, no matter how
many emanations and subdivisions may be associated with that "Transmitter
of the Word".
164. The following excerpt from
forthcoming text demonstrate this—
These three Raja
Lords, devas, or transmitters, form the three centres of
logoic force in the three worlds (TCF 921)
165. From this we gather that
Raja Deva Lords are definitely transmitters.
In their totality [i.e., in all their divisions and subdivisions] they
form the atomic physical bodies of the Raja Lord of the plane and in
a peculiarly occult sense these seven form (in their
lower differentiations on etheric levels) the
sumtotal of the etheric centres of all human beings, just as
on the cosmic etheric levels are found the centres of a Heavenly Man.´
166. Here is a statement of
occult importance though not necessarily easy to decipher.
167. If we speak of “the Raja
Lord of the plane” we are only speaking of one systemic plane.
168. Each Raja Lord has
apparently seven “physical bodies”—an atomic physical body (and the many
types of physical bodies within that atomic physical body), a sub-atomic
physical body (and the many type of physical bodies within that sub-atomic
physical body)—and the same for the super-etheric, etheric, gaseous, liquid and
dense levels.
169. The transmitting devas,
apparently, differentiate into lower types of devas on etheric levels. We must
remember that every systemic subplane is also differentiated into seven sub-subplanes.
The first of each sub-subplanes is, from this
perspective, atomic in nature and would be connected with the atomic
subplane of the systemic plane of which it is a part.
170. Much depends on what is
meant by the phrase “in their lower differentiations on etheric levels”. Are all
the devas found on the lower three systemic ethers to
be considered differentiations of the transmitters or are only those devas on
the atomic sub-subplanes to be considered as differentiations of the
transmitters?
171. In a peculiar way, is DK
telling us that the chakras of the human being consist only of
transmitting devas and their lower differentiations on etheric levels lower
than the atomic subplane of each systemic plane?
172. What we may infer is that
chakras (composed of transmitting devas and their lower differentiations) have
‘transmittive’ functions.
173. What is predicated of the
seven transmitting devas (or groups of transmitting devas) on the seven atomic
subplanes of each of the systemic planes, can be predicated of the seven cosmic
transmitting devas (or groups of devas) in relation to the seven cosmic planes.
We have but to analogize from the systemic pattern to the cosmic pattern.
174. With regard to the cosmic
physical plane, the major transmitting deva (or group of seven transmitting
devas) will be found upon the logoic subplane of the cosmic physical plane.
175. The chakras of the Solar
Logos (or Heavenly Man) will, then, be composed of the substance of the cosmic
transmitting deva (or group of devas) and their lower differentiations on the
three lower cosmic ethers—however that differentiating may occur.
176. Since there are seven
"Transmitters of the Word" essentially responsible for forming the
seven chakras, and these seven are probably correlated with each of the seven
rays, one suspects that each of the seven ray influences is found within each
chakra.
177. Through analogy, this stands
to reason. Any planet, for instance, is a chakra and every planet has all
seven ray influences. When we look at the larger chakras such as planets
and stars, we can more easily see the influence of the seven rays in each.
178. By one theory, the devas of the second, third and fourth systemic atomic
subplanes will be the higher correspondences of the devas of the second, third
and fourth atomic sub-subplanes on the three lower systemic etheric
planes. This is to say that the transmitting devas of the three systemic atomic
planes immediately below the systemic logoic plane will be considered lower
differentiations of the major cosmic transmitting deva to be found on the
systemic logoic plane as a whole, since (from the perspective of the cosmic
planes) the systemic logoic plane is the atomic subplane of the cosmic
physical plane.
179. All this is not so
difficult. It is just a question of making a good map and working out the
correspondences.
180. Later we shall find that
the "Transmitters of the Word" on the systemic logoic plane work only
on the three lower subplanes of that plane. This is interesting and
suggests an incomplete picture.
The connection between the
centres and etheric substance, systemic and human, opens up a vast range
for [Page 920] thought.
181. What thoughts come to mind when we contemplate
this relationship?
182. Are
we reminded of the two major types of devas to be found on every plane? Of
those devas who are transmitters of prana to all forms of life and of those
devas who form the bodies of every form in manifestation?
183. We
must remember that the chakras are composed of transmitting devas and their
lower differentiations.
184. We
must further remember that chakric whorls originate from the Monad itself.
Thus, in a way, the transmitting devas upon each of the atomic subplanes (and sub-subplanes) must carry the impulse from
the Monad in the process of creating the chakras.
185. In
this scheme of relationships, the Monad is a major transmitter
and the transmitting devas responsible for creating the chakras must receive
this transmission.
186. The
intricacy is staggering and suggests areas of investigation for the etheric
sciences of the future. Before this subject can be elucidated, far more than
just the systemic etheric plane will have to be discovered.
The "Transmitters of the Word" on the atomic subplane of
each plane are devas of vast power and prerogative who may be stated to be
connected with the Father aspect, and embodiments
of electric fire.
187. Here we have a powerful
description of the “Transmitters of the Word”. They are obviously initiate
devas of high development.
188. If there is one principal
"Transmitter of the Word" who embodies the seven, that one is
probably the Raja Deva Lord of a particular systemic plane.
189. We know the Raja Deva Lords
are great Beings. We are gathering that each of the seven "Transmitters of
the Word" on each of the systemic atomic subplanes are
also great Beings.
190. Working on the first
subplane of each of the systemic planes, they are obviously connected with the first
aspect of divinity (the “Father aspect”) and with electric fire.
191. If they are “embodiments of
electric fire”, then the electric fire of the Father passes through them.
192. The division of 1—3—3
(whether in relation to cosmic planes, systemic planes, or systemic subplanes)
is of great interpretive value.
193. It would seem that the
“Transmitters of the Word” have great scope for the exercise of their own will,
as they have not only “vast power” but vast “prerogative”. Thus, they have many
‘divine rights and privileges’. Of course, all that they do will be willingly
in line with a higher law.
They are all fully self-conscious,
194. As stated…
195. DK is speaking of the seven
transmitters on the atomic level of all systemic planes.
having
passed through the human stage in earlier kalpas.
196. Here we do not know whether
the term “kalpas” signifies mahakalpas (mahamanvantaras) or simply “Days of
Brahma” (yet within the present solar system).
197. Since even Raja Deva Lords
like Kshiti and Varuna are equivalent to Chohans (or initiates of the sixth
degree), it is probable that the term “kalpas” does not mean mahamanvantaras.
198. From a holistic
perspective, it is probably safe to infer that there are only seven major
“Transmitters of the Word” on every cosmic plane, no matter how many may be
their differentiations (even on systemic atomic subplanes).
They are also corporate
parts of the seven primary head centres in the body of a solar Logos or
planetary Logos.
199. One senses that one is in
the presence of rapidly deepening occultism.
200. Do these seven
“Transmitters of the Word” together constitute the entirety of the seven
primary head centers of a Solar Logos or Planetary Logos? Or are they simply “corporate
parts of the seven primary head centers”, meaning that there are also other
parts to these head centers.
201. We remember that (the
normal?) chakras (in a peculiar occult sense) are formed by transmitting devas
and their lower differentiations. In fact, the chakras “in their sumtotal” are
thus formed.
202. Thus, if we eliminate the
phrase “in their lower differentiations on etheric levels” and consider only
the “Transmitters of the Word” on the systemic atomic levels, perhaps they form
the entirety of sumtotal of the seven primary head centers—as DK
calls them, “the greater seven”.
203. We remind ourselves that
chakras are formed of devic substance.
204. However, where are the
seven primary head centers of “a solar Logos or planetary Logos” located? They
will not be found on all the systemic planes. Rather, they will be
found, probably, only on the highest two systemic planes. (We take our analogy
from TCF Chart VIII.)
205. May we say that the seven
primary head centers of the Solar Logos will be found on the systemic logoic
plane and that the seven primary head centers of a Planetary Logos (such as our
Earth, at least) will be found on the systemic monadic plane? There are
ways in which the highest etheric field for a non-sacred Planetary Logos is the
monadic plane (home of the Monads which form the highest centers within such a
Planetary Logos).
206. If this were true, then the
“Transmitters of the Word” which are found on the atomic subplanes of the lower
systemic planes would be part of or related to these major logoic
and planetary logoic head centers but would not constitute the entirety
of them. They would be resonantly related, though positioned on a plane
different from the systemic plane on which the major head centers were actually
found. This must be thought-through carefully.
207. So again, attention is
drawn to what is meant by “corporate parts”. Apparently a ‘corporate part’ of a
major head chakra can be positioned on a plane lower than the plane on which
the head chakra is positioned.
208. There are many mysteries
surrounding the nature and positioning of the greater seven head
centers—whether for a man, a Planetary Logos or a Solar Logos.
209. Notice in the map found in
Chart V, TCF 344, there are not seven but three triangles on the logoic plane,
yet on the atomic subplanes of the seven systemic planes, it is suggested that
there are seven "Transmitters of the Word". Somehow, a seveness
should appear on the systemic logoic plane and also on the systemic atomic
correspondences to that highest systemic plane.
Though connected with the
Father aspect, they are nevertheless part of the body of the Son, and each
of them, according to the plane which he energises, is a component part
of one or other of the seven centres, either solar or planetary—planetary when
only the particular centre is concerned, systemic when that centre is viewed as
an integral part of the whole.
210. The whole matter is getting
very intricate as I am sure you will agree.
211. Each one of the
“Transmitters of the Word” is connected to the “Father aspect” and to electric
fire.
212. Because they are positioned
on the atomic subplane of each systemic plane, they are connected to the
Father.
213. But because the various
other chakras of the Planetary Logos or Solar Logos are positioned on the
monadic, atmic and buddhic systemic planes, these “Transmitters of the Word”,
being ‘positioned’ on those systemic planes are, therefore, part of
those other chakras—even while being responsive to the Father aspect.
214. What is the “body of the
Son”? Is it the body consisting of all centers other than the head center? Is
anything that transpires on the six systemic planes lower than the systemic
logoic plane to be considered as in the “body of the Son”?
215. From another perspective,
the entire solar system (consisting of all seven systemic planes) is the
body of the Son. In a way, the “Father” is to be found extraneous to the solar
system (which is the ‘System of the Son’) altogether. The Father is simply
reflected on atomic planes, subplanes and sub-subplanes of the cosmic physical
planes.
216. The Father is not an
embodiment but is to be embodied within the Son.
Each of
these great lives (embodying deva energy of the first degree) is an emanation
from the central spiritual sun in the first instance and from one of the three
major constellations in the second instance.
217. The occultism deepens
further.
218. From whence these seven
great lives found on the cosmic physical plane?
219. DK seems to be telling us
that each of the “Transmitters of the Word” is to be considered as an
emanation.
a.
First, as an emanation from the “central spiritual sun”, from one
perspective, the monadic aspect of our Solar Logos.
b.
Secondly, from one of the three major constellations—the Great
Bear, the Pleiades and Sirius.
220. Of course, we can interpret
this differently, and it is probably better to do so, in which case—
a.
The Central Spiritual Sun will be the center point of our entire
local cosmos, will be found in the Pleiades and will not be directly related to
our Solar Logos at all.
b.
Then the words “in the second instance”, will indicate secondary
points of emanation within the system of the Central Spiritual Sun, for the
Great Bear, Sirius (and its system) and the Seven Pleiades all can be
seen as chakras or centers within the system of the Central Spiritual Sun (the
hub of the wheel of our local cosmos through which the "One About Whom
Naught May Be Said" expresses).
Systemically they fall into three
groups:
221. We continue to deal with a
very high form of devic life—with “Transmitters of the Word”—which, we now
assume, are sub-Raja Deva Lords. We remember that Raja Deva Lords are the greatest
of the "Transmitters of the Word" upon the cosmic physical plane.
222. What follows is very interesting,
since at no point in the foregoing discussion have we been told where on
the systemic logoic plane the “Transmitters of the Word” were to be positioned.
Group 1 includes
those transmitters of the Word who are found on the three lower subplanes
of the plane Adi, or the logoic plane.
223. The transmitters in Group 1
are to be found on the three lower subplanes of the logoic plane.
This would place them into correspondence with the lowest third of the sequence
1—3—3, and would immediately make us question whether there were any kind of
transmitters to be found upon the atomic subplane of the logoic plane and the
three lower ‘etheric’ subplanes of the logoic plane. One senses that these
cannot be the highest of the “Transmitters of the Word”.
224. When dealing with the word
“includes” we realize a hint. There may be more to Group 1 than the type of
“Transmitters of the Word” here described. In other words, Group 1 may be more
complete and may include transmitters from the higher subplanes of the logoic
plane.
225. We must remember at this
point that "Transmitters of the Word" are usually associated with the
atomic level of any plane, and now with the lower subplanes.
226. In this case, however, we
must remember that, from the cosmic point of view, the entire systemic logoic
plane is atomic.
Group 2 comprises
those great builders who transmit the Word on the three next systemic planes,
the monadic, the atmic and the buddhic.
227. Here the word “comprises”
is used and in the next paragraph, “is formed of”. These are terms more suggestive
of completion than the term “includes”.
228. We are in the realm of
“great builders”. In fact, on the monadic plane resides that Creative Hierarchy
known as the “Greater Builders”. (cf. EA 35)
229. Now, instead of speaking of
systemic subplanes (as was done in relation to Group 1), we are speaking
of entire systemic planes (though, no doubt, there are important subdivisions
occurring on each of these systemic planes—monadic, atmic and buddhic).
230. We are not told (as in the
case of Group 1) that the location of these particular great builders is found
on the three lower subplanes of their respective planes. Perhaps, they
are found on the higher four subplanes of the monadic, atmic and buddhic planes
as well.
Group 3 is formed of
those who carry on a similar function in the three worlds of human endeavour.
231. We are still speaking of
great Beings—or "Transmitters of the Word".
232. The three worlds of human
endeavor are not located within the cosmic ethers. The line of transmission,
however, from the very highest systemic plane to the lowest systemic planes
whereon man usually functions, remains unbroken.
233. Systemically there are
seven (shall we say?) ‘ultimate’ “Transmitters of the
Word” subdivided into many lesser devas on the various systemic planes. The
seven "Transmitters of the Word" on each of the systemic atomic
subplanes are corporate parts of the seven ‘ultimate’ "Transmitters of the
Word" Who are, really, Raja Deva Lords.
234. From a larger perspective,
there are three major groupings of transmitters.
a.
Those found on the three lower subplanes of the logoic plane
b.
Those found on the second, third and fourth systemic planes
(numbering from above) and especially upon the first subplane of those systemic
planes (which is not to say that transmitters cannot be found on lower
subplanes of those planes as well—as has been demonstrated in relation to Group
1).
c.
Those found on the fifth, sixth and seventh systemic planes and especially
upon the first subplane of those systemic planes (which is not to say that
transmitters cannot be found on the lower subplanes of those planes as well—as
has been demonstrated in relation to Group 1).
d.
There is almost certainly a transmitting function occurring upon
the first sub-subplane of each of the ‘etheric’ subplanes of each
of the systemic planes. There may also be a transmitting function occurring
upon the first sub-subplane of each of the dense subplanes of the systemic
planes. We need a map to more clearly reveal the intricacy.
235. In the simplest possible
terms and in relation to what we must know—somehow ‘the Word gets through’!
Fundamentally they are also
emanations from one of the seven stars of the Great Bear in the third
instance.
236. We have had the first,
second and, now, the third instance.
237. From the way they are
listed, it is seeming more certain that the Central Spiritual Sun is to be
located within the Pleiades or as the Pleiades as a whole, rather
than considering it (in this context) as the monadic nature of the Solar Logos.
(That Monad is, however, legitimately called the Central Spiritual Sun if we
are taking a solar systemic perspective.)
238. Thus—
a.
The first instance embraces the entirety of the system of
the "One About Whom Naught May Be Said"
b.
The second instance speaks of emanative points as the
constellational chakras within the "One About
Whom Naught May Be Said"—the Great Bear, the Pleiades and either Sirius
(i.e., the Sirian system) or the Little Bear—the higher correspondence of
Sirius).
c.
The third instance speaks of specific stars or chakras within one
of the constellational chakras within the "One About
Whom Naught May Be Said". Each major star in the Great Bear is a major ‘solar’
chakra in that major constellational chakra known as the Great Bear.
239. We see that these great
‘Transmitting Lives’ come to their present ‘positions’ on our cosmic physical
plane from a great distance, but then, so does man.
240. We do not know all the
steps along the way of the emanatory path, but there are surely many ‘stops’ which
would be of great interest to the student of these matters.
241. Suffice it to say that the
line of transmission here described is one that conducts the Will of God and
electric fire right onto the cosmic physical plane and into the three lower
worlds of human evolution and, finally, ‘down’ onto the lowest of all systemic
planes—the etheric-physical plane.
242. We are learning about the
structural divisions within the deva kingdom and of the relations of the
members of that kingdom to each other.
In these
triple emanatory forces may be found the origin of all that is
visible and objective, and through their agency our solar system takes its
place within the greater cosmic scheme, and a certain basic cosmic fire is
formed.
243. A great part of the value
of reading this section of text is to realize something of the depth of
occultism which is being conveyed.
244. These “Transmitters of the
Word” are called “triple emanatory forces” because they originate from three
great sources which represent three great levels of being.
245. We may suppose that, due to
their origin, they have much to do with the conduction of the seven rays into
our solar system, onto our planet and into our lives as man.
246. Three great orders of devas
(broadly, transmitting devas, manipulatory devas, and the third and lowest
class which are more ‘structural and structuring’ devas—though not necessarily
to be considered “elementals in the usual sense”) are responsible for all of
manifestation upon the cosmic physical plane.
247. DK is speaking here of the
origin of all that is “visible and objective” in the outer sense.
248. Let us tabulate that for
which these “Transmitters of the Word” are responsible:
a.
They are the origin of all that is visible and objective
b.
They are responsible for assisting our solar system to take its
place within the “cosmic scheme”. That scheme is the "Seven Solar Systems
of Which Ours is One".
c.
Through their agency a “certain basic cosmic fire is formed”. We
may be speaking here of fire by friction considered in a cosmic
sense—the basic fire of the cosmic physical plane (in two categories, “latent”
cosmic fire by friction and “radiatory or active” cosmic fire by friction).
249. We gather that without
them, there could be no objective solar system—i.e., no solar system
demonstrating throughout the entirety of the cosmic physical plane.
250. Further, without the
transmittive impulse emanating from the Central Spiritual Sun, from the three
great constellations and from the seven stars of the Great Bear, our solar
system would not have taken form. From these sources emanate the great
transmitting devas which we have under discussion.
They [in their three divisions] are the
sumtotal of the head, the heart and the throat centres of the solar Logos, and
their correspondences will be found within a Heavenly Man, a human [Page
921] being, and an atom.
251. There are three great
groups of transmitting devas—Group 1, Group 2 and Group 3, and these groups
relate to three great or major centers within the Solar Logos (with
correspondences within the Heavenly Man, the human being and the atom of
substance).
252. One wonders why the other
chakras are not included. Perhaps we are speaking only of the primary chakric
correspondences of these transmitting devas.
253. From the higher and wider
perspective, however, we can see that those transmitters found on the lower
subplanes of the systemic logoic plane correspond to the head center. Those
upon the monadic, atmic, and buddhic systemic planes correspond to the heart
center. Those who function within the systemic planes of the three lower worlds
correspond to the throat center.
254. We must suspect that there
are higher "Transmitters of the Word" to be found on the systemic
logoic plane, and that these might correlate with the higher aspects of the
head center.
255. We remind ourselves—
a.
The chakras are devic.
b.
The chakras are composed, it seems, of transmitting devas.
c.
The etheric chakras of the great Beings are located on three or
four of the cosmic ethers—depending on whether we are speaking of a Planetary
Logos or a Solar Logos.
d.
The major head centers of the great Beings are not located within
the lower two subdivisions (the monadic, atmic, and buddhic planes on the one
hand, or the mental, astral and etheric-physical planes on the other). At least
for the Solar Logos, the seven major head centers must be considered to be
located on the logoic plane—on what subplanes we do not know, but may infer
according to the nature of the particular head centers). Probably, this
positioning is to be looked for on the higher three subplanes of the logoic
plane.
Hence the scientist, as he
discovers the nature of the atom, is putting himself in touch with these three
types of solar energy, and is unravelling the central mystery of the system.
256. Now DK calls these three
types of emanatory energies “solar energy”. Since they find a place for
expression within our solar system, He is justified in calling them that.
257. What DK is suggesting is
that the scientist may extrapolate from what he learns about the atom, to
knowledge concerning man, the Planetary Logos, the Solar Logos and even beyond.
258. We seem to be discussing a
fourfold process:
a.
Origin of the impulse within the "One About Whom Naught May Be
Said"
b.
Transmission of the impulse through the Three Major Constellations
(and we must decide whether to use Sirius or the Little Bear).
c.
Transmission of the impulse through the seven major stars of one
of the Three Major Constellations (the Great Bear), but there is no reason why
the impulse should not be transmitted through the seven major stars of the
Little Bear and of the sevenfold Sirian System.
d.
The anchoring of the impulse within our solar system.
As the triple nature of the atom stands revealed, so likewise the triple
nature of man and of God gradually becomes proven.
259. So the process suggested
is, “As below so above”.
260. The triple nature of man
and God shall not only be revealed but “proven”. This is a powerful anticipation.
The energy of these groups passes
through the physical sun, and from thence they sound the Word for the
particular plane of their specific endeavour.
261. We are speaking of the
descent of the "Transmitters of the Word".
262. We are reminded of the ‘Double
Diamond Diagrams” to be found in Esoteric Astrology, p.610.
263. The emanatory sequence here
proposed is more inclusive than the diagram offered in EA, but the descent of
energy in both cases seems to be part of the same flow.
264. It is important to realize
that the transmission of the impulse must pass through our Sun before reaching
the particular plane from which a certain phase of the “Transmission of the
Word” goes forth.
265. The line of descent, then,
is thus more than fourfold—it is fivefold, even, perhaps, sixfold, if
one considers that a planet other than the Earth probably intervenes before the
impulse can reach our planet.
266. We are learning that these
groups “sound the Word” “from thence”. Does this mean that after being
transmitted through the Sun, they sound the Word or that while they are passing
‘through the Sun’ as it were, they sound the Word? The second option seems more
accurate.
267. Whichever is correct, there
is a strong solar factor in the sounding of the Word for each particular
systemic plane.
268. This is a good time to
remember that each of the systemic planes is a spirilla in the main permanent
atom (found on the logoic plane) of the cosmic physical plane.
269. In a way, of course, the
entire cosmic physical plane is an atom.
The
student must not make the mistake of thinking that these seven great
transmitters are the seven Heavenly Men.
They form one half of Their real nature.
270. We know that Heavenly Men
are Divine Hermaphrodites. Part of them is devic and the other part a higher
correspondence to the “man”. The structure seems equally divided between “man”
(Heavenly Man) and deva.
271. It is obvious that the
emanatory stream of these transmitters has a origin
much higher than that of the Heavenly Men. When they reach the Heavenly Men,
they are at the fifth stage of the emanatory process:
a.
"One About Whom Naught May Be Said"
b.
Three Great Constellations
c.
Seven major stars of the Great Bear
d.
Our Sun (or a Sun in the "Seven Solar Systems of Which Ours is
One")
e.
A Heavenly Man
272. We must be watchful, for DK
seems rapidly to switch from speaking of seven "Transmitters of the
Word" on each systemic plane to only “seven treat transmitters” each of
which is related to one of the major Heavenly Men.
This is all that can be said of
this great mystery,
273. After such a discussion, we
do not doubt that it is a “great mystery” do we?
though it might be
added that from another angle of vision, they form but one third of his
threefold divine nature.
274. The angle of vision changes
and so does the perspective.
275. From this second angle of
vision, the great “Transmitters of the Word” once they reach the solar system
and the Heavenly Men within that solar system, form but one third of the nature
of the Heavenly Men and not one half. Let us see how this may be.
Man is dual, being Spirit and matter; he is also, during
evolution, a triplicity, so it is with a Heavenly Man, and hence
the mystery.
276. If man or a Heavenly Man
were only dual, then the “Transmitters of the Word” could be considered as
related to the matter or Mother aspect and the “man” part of the man or the
Heavenly Man, to the Spirit aspect.
277. But since, in evolutionary
process, man and the Heavenly Man are triple, the nature of the soul
which is neither Spirit nor matter, but both, must be considered.
278. In the union of Spirit and
matter in soul, a new amalgam is formed. This new amalgam, characterized by
consciousness represents the other third which is neither entirely “man” nor
“deva”.
The great Transmitter of the Word
on the physical plane,
279. We are speaking of the
systemic physical plane.
which is the one
under our consideration,
280. Even though we have laid
out a much larger scheme…
is the
energising factor of the throat centre of Brahma.
281. Again, we have a very
occult statement.
282. Brahma, in this context, is
a solar systemic Being. Brahma rules particularly the lower three systemic
planes of the cosmic physical plane.
283. The chakras of a Planetary
Logos or Solar Logos cannot be found in the lower three worlds, even though
certain of those chakras are directly connected with these lower three worlds.
284. It would seem that even
though the particular "Transmitter of the Word" under discussion is
directly working upon the systemic physical plane, it has a
energizing effect upon the throat center of Brahma.
285. Where is that throat center
to be found? Upon the atmic plane?. Let us
think this through and see where we would locate the throat center of Brahma.
286. Brahma and the Holy Spirit
are one and the same, and so we cannot locate systemic or planetary Brahma
within dense cosmic matter but only within cosmic etheric matter.
287. From another perspective,
however, if we confine ourselves to the systemic physical plane, then we could
speak of the manner in which the throat center of man, found on the
super-etheric subplane of the etheric-physical plane, is energized. Brahma
would seem to be behind this energization.
288. We are faced with two
possible ways of thinking:
a.
Either we think of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva as expressing through
the cosmic etheric planes. This is a somewhat cosmic perspective.
b.
Or, we spread the influence of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva across the
entire cosmic physical plane, which would ‘locate’ Brahma’s expression in that
part of the cosmic physical plane which is not principled—i.e., within
the lower three worlds. If we think in this manner, we will think of Brahma,
Vishnu and Shiva as the Three Logoi Who surround the Solar Logos jus as the
three Buddhas of Activity surround Sanat Kumara.
289. From one perspective (a
higher one), the throat center of Brahma must necessarily be found only
within the cosmic etheric planes.
290. From another perspective,
however, that throat center could be found within the lower three worlds which
are (cosmically considered) unprincipled planes of density rather than etheric
planes.
291. It seems to be this latter
approach that DK is taking.
An interesting tabulation of the
threefold centres
292. We will have to see what
Master DK means by “the threefold centers”. Certainly each center has three
divisions: the jewel, the petals and the support or foundation.
293. As well, it is important to
realize that Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva are all actually or potentially threefold.
and the three divine aspects might here be
given which may prove of use to the student, though he should carefully bear in
mind that these centres are for the purpose of generating and transmitting
energy.
294. DK is always watchful lest
we over-materialize our concept of the centers, regarding them as objects
rather than as energy-fields participating in the transmission and passage of
energy.
1. The
transmitter of energy on the physical plane forms
the throat centre in
the body of Brahma, the third aspect.
295. What we are here discussing
is all occurring with the dense physical body of the Solar Logos. This is not
where solar logoic chakras are usually said to be found.
296. We are speaking of a great
deva who works upon the systemic physical plane.
297. We remember that when
speaking of the “body” of Brahma, we are speaking of the twenty-one lower
subplanes (in the case of the Solar Logos) and, probably, of the eighteen lower
subplanes (in the case of our Planetary Logos).
298. All the many throat centers
upon the third subplane of the etheric-physical plane are as one throat center
in the body of Brahma.
299. It should not be ignored
however, that there are also throat centers to be found upon the third subplane
of the systemic astral plane.
300. Yet there is no assurance
that our attention should be focused on the super-etheric subplane, because the
transmitters of energy are, we have been told, principally associated with atomic
subplanes.
301. In anticipation of what we
will discover shortly below, are we saying that the Raja Deva Lord Kshiti (or
His higher systemic correspondence) is the throat center in the body of Brahma
(considering Brahma as one of the three Logoi subsidiary to the Solar Logos)?
2. The transmitter
of energy upon the astral plane forms the heart centre of Brahma.
302. We are speaking of a great
deva who works upon the systemic astral plane.
303. Typically the heart center
is to be found upon the second ether, the sub-atomic ether.
304. Throughout the solar
system, the many heart centers to be found upon the second subplane of the
systemic astral plane form the heart center of Brahma (if we confine Brahma to
the dense physical body of the Solar Logos)
305. We cannot ignore, however,
the presence of a second subplane heart center upon the second subplane of the
etheric-physical plane.
306. Just as stated in relation
to the throat center of Brahma, we must look for the major focus of the
transmitter of energy upon the astral plane as the atomic level of the
astral plane.
307. Obviously, the centers thus
far discussed and the one discussed in the follow section, are all to be
correlated with planetary and solar logoic centers found within the cosmic
ethers (centers within the body of the Logos, Vishnu).
308. In anticipation of what we
will discover shortly below, are we saying that the Raja Deva Lord Varuna (or
His higher systemic correspondence) is the heart center in the body of Brahma
(considering Brahma as one of the three Logoi subsidiary to the Solar Logos)?
3. The
transmitter of the Word on the mental plane forms the head centre of this, the third aspect.
309. We do not know whether this
Word is transmitted upon the higher mental plane or within the lower mental
plane.
310. It is probable that we must
think in terms of the Solar Logos and the fact that the higher mental plane is
included within the dense physical body of the Solar Logos. In this case the
transmitter concerned will work centrally on the atomic subplane of the
higher mental plane.
311. Until the causal body of man is destroyed, we cannot
speak of a head center being located on the highest level of the higher mental
plane, however, there are associated head centers located on the highest levels
of the systemic astral plane and the systemic physical plane. Taken all
together, these head centers could be considered as contributing to the head
center of Brahma (expressive within the physical body of Brahma—the lower
twenty-one systemic subplanes).
312. Perhaps there are certain
petal functions within the egoic lotus (or even “jewel” functions) which should
be considered part of the expression of the head center of Brahma (if we
confine Brahma to the dense physical body of the Solar Logos).
313. It must be obvious that (in
this section of text) we are considering Brahma from a very material
perspective, associating Him, as we are, with the dense physical body of
the Solar Logos (a body which is, cosmically, not a principle).
314. In anticipation of what we
will discover immediately below, are we saying that the Raja Deva Lord Agni (or
his higher systemic correspondence) is the head center in the body of Brahma
(considering Brahma as one of the three Logoi subsidiary to the Solar Logos)?
These
three Raja Lords, devas, or transmitters, form the three centres of logoic
force in the three worlds.
315. We have jut come to a most
important statement.
316. We have approached this
entire subject without mentioning that the greatest or ‘ultimate’ “Transmitters
of the Word” are really Raja Deva Lords!
317. Since in the foregoing
pages we are begin taught something of the origin of the “Transmitters of the
Word”, we are also being taught about the origin of the Raja Deva Lords, for
the “Transmitters” are the Raja Deva Lords! The seven "Transmitters
of the Word"
found on each systemic atomic subplane are not the Raja Deva Lords.
They are lesser though powerful Beings. The Raja Deva Lord is the ‘ultimate’
“Transmitter” for each systemic plane and subsumes the seven within His Being.
318. Thus, so it appears, the
Raja Deva Lords have origin within the "One About
Whom Naught May Be Said", within the three Major Constellations, within
the seven major stars of the Great Bear, within the Sun and probably are
related to Planetary Logoi in our solar system senior to the Logos of our
Earth. Let us ponder on this.
319. So, in DK’s statement above,
we have been given a very elucidating and synthetic thought.
They are the lowest energy aspect of Brahma. [Page 922]
320. Since we have just been
told that the three "Transmitters of the Word" working upon the lower
three systemic planes are the throat, heart and head centers of Brahma, the
statement above seeks a little perplexing.
321. To make sense of it, we
will have to expand our conception of Brahma and the reach of His expression.
There is, we see, far more to Brahma than the suggested in the foregoing discussion.
322. There are four higher Raja
Deva Lords Who, presumably, are the higher energy
aspect of Brahma—if we greatly expand the idea of Brahma, thinking of
Him from a more cosmic perspective.
323. From the higher
perspective, Brahma rules over the entire cosmic physical plane, not
just the lower three subplanes, but in such a case, we would be considering
Brahma cosmically rather than systemically.
324. Thus, there is a cosmic way
of looking at Brahma which sees Him include that which we have been
calling Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.
4. The
Transmitter of the Word upon the buddhic plane forms the throat centre of
Vishnu, the second aspect. From thence the Word goes forth
that builds the dense physical form of a Heavenly Man or of a solar Logos.
325. Notice we have switched our
focus to Vishnu, the Lord of the second aspect and the second ray.
326. We will note as we progress
that the sequence of the planes will not match with the sequence of the
centers.
327. The buddhic plane is the
lowest of the cosmic ethers and consequently relates to the lowest of the three
major centers—the throat center.
328. Each of the three aspects
has three major centers, though it may be that the first aspect, not entirely
developed in this solar system, still expresses through an undifferentiated
union of the three.
329. In the next solar system,
will there be nine systemic planes for each cosmic plane? This may not
be as far fetched as it may seem to be at first.
330. Vishnu is a “Singer” and
from Him a great building “Word” goes forth. The second aspect of divinity is
the building aspect, and the energy of the buddhic plane is essentially
unitive and constructive.
331. The dense physical form of
the Heavenly Man or Solar Logos is found on the lower eighteen or twenty-one
subplanes.
332. Mercury, profoundly related
to the third aspect, is also related to buddhi. Mercury also is a planet of
speech and articulation. We can see the function of Mercury expressive of the
throat center of Vishnu on the buddhic plane.
333. The name of the Raja Deva
Lord of the buddhic plane is Indra.
334. Indra then embodies the
throat center of that one of the Three Logoi (subsidiary to the Solar Logos) Who expresses the second aspect or second ray.
335. Another way of saying this
is that Indra is the throat center of Vishnu (if we understand Vishnu to be
confined to the cosmic physical plane, which really, He is not).
5. The
Transmitter of energy upon the monadic plane forms the
heart centre of Vishnu, the second aspect.
336. Shall we call the Raja Deva
Lord of the monadic plane, Surya?
337. Notice, we have changed the
sequence of systemic planes in relation to systemic centers. This is justified
considering that in our second solar system the heart aspect is preeminent over
the head and will aspect.
338. In case we might think that
the Monad expresses only will, DK’s statement
will show it as the expression of love as well.
339. Shamballa, we realize, is
an expression of both head and heart, and on the monadic plane the heart
expression may be stronger than the head expression, just as on the logoic
plane the head expression may be stronger than the heart expression. Both of
these higher two planes are ‘located’ in Shamballa (though, from another
perspective, all the cosmic etheric planes are Shamballic ‘domains’).
6. The
Transmitter of force upon the atmic plane forms the head centre of Vishnu.
340. Head is subservient to
heart—in this solar system; atma is subservient to the pure Spirit expressed
through the Monad.
341. The atmic plane is the home
of spiritual will, which relates to the head center.
342. Interestingly, when the
major chakras are being aligned with the systemic planes, the head center is
assigned to the atmic plane. (cf. TCF 165)
5. That above the top of the head, which is
the crown, and has relation with the atmic plane. (TCF 165)
343. From another perspective, the
second aspect (the solar fire aspect) of Agni expresses through the
monadic plane, the atmic plane and the buddhic plane. This is confirmed in the
discussion we are undertaking.
He [Lord Agni] shows forth as solar fire on the second, third and fourth, and as
'fire by friction' on the fifth, sixth and seventh. (TCF 521-522)
This tabulation will be confusing
to students unless it is realised that we are here considering these aspects
only as dualities, and are dealing with one of the dual parts.
344. Every time we have a three
we have a nine. The Brahma and Vishnu aspects have been divided into three. The
Shiva aspect has, perhaps, not yet been divided into three, though such a
division is potential (and more than likely to be expressed in the next
solar system).
345. The duality here discussed concerns
“man” and “deva”. We are only discussing the deva part of this duality. The
deva kingdom is a feminine kingdom. Could it be that the attribution of the
centers in relation to planes would change for the “man” aspect of the duality?
346. For devas, at least, heart
is preeminent over will/mind and our Solar Logos is much more a Deva than a Man
(though He is called the Grand Heavenly Man). Self-consciousness deva life
within our Solar Logos outnumbers by far human life.
347. We have discussed six
"Transmitters of the Word" and there will be, correspondingly, six
“Men” to complete the duality. This gives us the number twelve.
348. If we ascend to the logoic
plane, and find there another duality, we shall have fourteen.
349. It is always difficult to
relate systems of twelve to systems of fourteen, but the pattern we have been
discussing shows one potentially significant relation between these two
numbers.
It will be apparent that in the
Vishnu aspect, for instance, which manifests upon the second plane, the
energy of that plane will act as the head centre to the succeeding planes, and
this apprehension, rightly grasped, will clarify the others.
350. DK offers a point of
clarification.
351. Every superior plane directs
the processes of the planes inferior to it. The head center is the center of direction.
352. So even though the
“Transmitter of Force” upon the atmic plane forms the head center of Vishnu,
the head center function (the directing function) in relation to this
center is found upon the monadic plane.
353. The major center within
the head center is the heart in the head—a major twelve petalled lotus. We can
easily associate the heart in the head center with the monadic plane, as that
center is a major second ray center within the overall field of a
first-ray purpose-center.
354. The function of a center is
always relative. That which serves as a lesser center in relation to a center
higher than itself, may serve as a major center in relation to a center lower
than itself.
The Transmitter of the Word on
the first plane of Adi is the embodiment of the throat centre of a cosmic
entity.
355. The occultism continues to
deepen. We are no longer speaking of a Solar Logos or Planetary Logos. The next
order of Logos is a Cosmic Logos, with seven major Solar Logoi as seven major
centers.
356. While this is the case, we
cannot be sure that the “cosmic entity” is so August as a Cosmic Logos.
Perhaps, the Entity is simply a Solar Logos superior to our Solar Logos.
357. Could that superior Solar
Logos be the Logos of Sirius?
358. That the “Transmitter” on
the seventh/first plane represents the throat center (of Shiva) suggests a
ninefold pattern. We immediately think of an allied heart and head center and
wonder about their ‘location’ in relation to the planes.
359. We remember that five is
the number of Brahma, seven of Vishnu and nine of Shiva.
360. We must presume that only
in the next solar system will the heart center and head center of Shiva appear.
Again, will there be nine systemic planes?
361. From another perspective,
we remember that the "Transmitters of the Word" on the logoic plane
works only on the lowest three subplanes (associated with the third ray and
third aspect). We will want to find two higher types of transmitters on the
second, third and fourth logoic subplanes, and a still higher type upon the
atomic subplane of the logoic plane. It is on this atomic subplane that Shiva
(considering His as a Raja Deva Lord) would be found.
362. We may ask whether a
certain cosmic Entity embodies the entire logoic plane of our
cosmic physical plane. The logoic plane has a close connection to Leo and Leo
to Sirius. The link is there.
From this statement will come a just realisation of our place in
the cosmic scheme, and the fundamentally physical nature of the
seven planes of the solar system is also here demonstrated, the nature
of Brahma, or the Holy Spirit, becoming apparent.
363. We are presented here with
the possibility of an advanced realization.
364. The highest source of
transmission upon our cosmic physical plane is a kind of throat center
transmission, related to the third aspect. This tells us something about the
third ray nature or cosmic materiality of our entire cosmic physical plane.
365. A “just realization” (are
Libra and the third ray involved?) may dawn upon us, but the matter at first is
vague.
366. When speaking of the throat
center upon the logoic systemic plane, there may be an inference that an
extension onto the cosmic astral plane is required to express the heart
center and head center of Shiva.
367. Interestingly, the Trident
of Shiva, is the same as the symbol for Neptune, Who is, in a way, one of the
rulers of the cosmic astral plane.
368. Seven is a material
number, a number of form. Nine is a number of consciousness though also related
to the third ray of matter.
369. In the expression of Brahma
and Vishnu, systemically considered, we are still very much working in the
world of matter (cosmically considered).
370. DK seems to be pointing to
the cosmic nature of Brahma or the Holy Spirit. From the cosmic
perspective, the higher four systemic subplanes (i.e., the cosmic etheric
planes) are the domain of Brahma/Holy Spirit.
371. We see that it is important
to consider the context when considering the Holy Spirit, for instance. We are
not only considering systemic etheric energies, but cosmic etheric energies as
well.
372. From this perspective, the
energy of the Holy Spirit is cosmic etheric, and the energy of the Christ
aspect is an emanation of the cosmic astral plane.
373. From this cosmic
perspective, the entire cosmic physical plane is under the sway of the third
ray and the Holy Spirit.
The old Commentary says:
"Brahma is One,
yet includes His brother. Vishnu is One,
yet existeth not apart from His brother, younger in point of time yet older
far. Shiva is One, and antedates Them both,
yet He appeareth not nor is He seen, until They both have cycled through Their
courses."
374. Each of the three aspects
expressing through the Gods Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva embodies the other two.
375. From an emanationist point
of view, Shiva appears first and emanates Vishnu Who emanates Brahma. Thus,
with regard to origin, Shiva is oldest and Brahma is youngest.
376. Yet Brahma (with regard to
the lower planes) manifests first, and Vishnu second.
377. One can, therefore, be
“younger in point of time” on the planes of manifestation, but older in terms
of subjective duration.
378. We all know that the Spirit
or Shiva aspect doest not express within the fields of manifestation until a
vehicle for manifestation and a consciousness suitable for such manifestation
has been built by both Brahma and Vishnu. Yet, for all that, Shiva appeared on
the highest planes first.
The above sevenfold tabulation
can be, under the law of correspondences, applied equally to every plane,
379. This we have suspected and
suggestions have been made.
380. Are we to locate the
highest Transmitters of the Word for a particular systemic plane on the three
lowest sub-subplanes of the atomic subplane of a particular plane? The analogy
is clear, is it not? Though clear, we cannot know whether the assumption is
true.
381. If we are to take the large
cosmic physical plane picture and collapse it onto the systemic planes,
naturally the sub-subplanes will have to play their role.
for the transmitters and workers on each plane
form similar groups.
382. Parallel groups…
Equally well can man consider this tabulation
in connection with his seven centres, and from a study [Page
923] of the two together he will gain knowledge as to the type of
energy which flows through any particular centre.
383. We will try to follow the
parallels existing between the macrocosm and the microcosm.
384. Man’s three lower centers
representing the World of Brahma, are the base of the spine center, the sacral
center and the solar plexus center.
385. With regard to the
microcosm, the throat center of Brahma will correlate with man’s etheric
mechanism and etheric centers in general.
386. The heart center of Brahma
will correlate with man’s astral body and his astral centers.
387. The head center of Brahma
will correlate with man’s mental centers and with his mental body.
388. Man’s life as Vishnu begins
on the higher mental plane in his soul nature. The spiritual triad as a whole
is an instrument of Vishnu.
389. However, if we follow the
pattern previously laid out, we will have to look to man’s buddhic vehicle as
the areas of expression for the throat center of Vishnu. This will involve
man’s heart center, the organ of buddhi.
390. The head center of Vishnu
will express through the atmic vehicle and through the head center in general.
391. The heart center of Vishnu
will express through his monadic vehicle and through the heart in the head
center.
392. Chakras are like planets.
Through every planet all energies flow—ray energies, planetary energies,
zodiacal energies and of course the energy of the great “Transmitters” and
their numerous emanative subdivisions. Thus it will be for the chakras of the
human being.
393. We have been trying to see
which particular "Transmitter of the Word" sends forth a major
conditioning energy to a particular chakra in man.
These transmitters
likewise can be heard sounding forth the Word with particular force and
power in that planetary scheme which corresponds to their note and is keyed to
their vibration.
394. The "Transmitters of
the Word" are, effectively, solar systemic Beings regardless of their
threefold cosmic origin. In an ‘ultimate’ sense, there are seven of them
and there are seven major planets. One of the major planets will correlate with
one particular "Transmitter of the Word" (i.e., with one particular
Raja Deva Lord), just as one particular planet correlates with one particular
star in the Great Bear and with one particular constellation within the chakra
system of the "One About Whom Naught May Be Said" (though three
constellational chakras are major and may subsume all the seven, just as there
are only three Techniques of Fusion operative for all seven soul types).
395. One wonders, given the
cosmic astral polarization of our Planetary Logos and His second ray soul,
whether the "Transmitter of the Word" for the astral plane is not the
one sounding with particular force and power upon our planet—at this time.
The planetary schemes, therefore, will fall
into a similar grouping, and this will open up for students a vast field of
conjecture.
396. Well, great vistas are
unfolding. We are working through quite an extraordinary part of TCF. Great
extensions of thought are possible.
397. DK is asking us to divide the
planets according to the pattern of 1—3—3.
398. It is easier to divide the
planets into 3—3—3 with Mercury retaining its mobile, relational function.
a.
Uranus/Neptune/Saturn (Synthesizing)
b.
Jupiter/Venus/Vulcan (Sacred but not Synthesizing)
c.
Earth/Mars/Pluto (Non-sacred)
399. When it comes to a division
within a field of seven—seven sacred planets for instance, we might
have—
a.
Neptune, the hypothetical ultimate synthesizers in the second ray
solar system
b.
Uranus/Saturn/Jupiter
c.
Mercury/Venus/Vulcan
400. If we wish to correlate
these planets with the planes involved in the activities of the
"Transmitters of the Word", we might have
a.
Uranus representing the logoic plane—the "
b.
c.
Saturn representing the atmic plane which it is said to rule (cf.
EA 35)
d.
Jupiter representing the buddhic plane, fittingly
e.
Mercury (the planet of mentality) representing the mental plane
f.
Venus (with its sixth ray Monad) representing the astral plane,
g.
Vulcan (so related to material processes) representing the systemic
physical plane.
401. There is no way for us to presently
ascertain which is the final synthesizing planet—Neptune or Uranus. There would
be good reasons to select either one.
The seven Prajapatis fall into
two groups of three, with one dominating.
402. We can consider these
Prajapatis are related to the planets conventionally considered:
a.
Sun (veiling Uranus—the “mystery planet”)
b.
Mercury
c.
Venus
d.
Earth
e.
Mars
f.
Jupiter
g.
Saturn
403. Or we can consider them in
relation to the seven sacred planets.
a.
Vulcan
b.
Mercury
c.
Venus
d.
Jupiter
e.
Saturn
f.
Uranus
g.
404. If we look at the entire
solar system, there are certainly more than seven Prajapatis or “Mind-born
Sons”.
Students will do well to remember in studying
the solar system, the planes, the schemes, man and the atom, that the
groupings of the lines or streams of energy during the evolutionary cycles fall
naturally into four divisions:
405. And there are other
divisions as well, involving the figures 5 and 2, as well as 6 and 1.
1.
1-3-3
406. This is the division which
we have been studying.
407. It represents the dominant
Shiva aspect over the equally balanced Vishnu and Brahma aspects.
2.
4-3
408. This is the etheric
subdivision. It represents the four systemic ethers preeminent over the three
denser systemic subplanes of the systemic etheric-physical plane.
409. This division also suggests
the four cosmic ethers in their relation to the three lower systemic
planes.
3.
3-4
410. This division suggests the
triangle of spirit hovering over the quaternary.
411. It is outpictured for us on
the mental plane with the division of the threefold higher mental plane above
the four concrete subplanes.
412. We can imagine this as the
triangle over the square.
4.
3-1-3
413. This division suggests the
fourth plane or subplane as the central meeting point for the higher and lower
triad. The fourth ether and the fourth or buddhic plane thus become important.
Division 1 can be understood under the
law of correspondences when the nature of the atomic plane of the solar
system, the three cosmic etheric planes, and the three planes of human
endeavour are investigated in connection with each other.
414. This is the mode of
division which we have been examining through a greater part of this
commentary.
Division 2 becomes easier of
comprehension when the close relation between the four cosmic etheric planes
and the three lower planes is grasped.
This can be illuminated by a study of the four physical ethers and the
three lower subplanes of our physical plane.
415. As stated.
416. This is the division
towards which we are all striving during the coming Aquarian Age in which the
seventh ray (the etheric ray) will become so important.
417. We have been engrossed
(literally) in the lower three subplanes. We are trying to shift our attention
into the four etheric subplanes—at least into the first two which are
relatively exoteric. Ideally, the shift will involve the second subplane
whereon the heart center will be found.
418. DK suggests that we should
study the relationship between etheric subplanes and dense subplanes on our
systemic etheric-physical plane if we wish more deeply to understand our cosmic
etheric planes.
Division 3 finds the clue to its
mystery in the constitution of the mental plane, with its three formless
levels, and its four levels of form.
419. As stated.
420. Here we find our first
really meaningful division into rupa (form) and arupa (formless) worlds.
421. The higher three levels of
the mental plane are not really an arupa world (at least from the perspective
of the Solar Logos), but, relatively, they are when compared to the concrete
nature of the eighteen lower subplanes.
422. The whole question of
approaching the soul comes up in the relation between the higher three and the
lower four. This involves the first section of the antahkarana and admits of a
growing soul infusion.
423. The goal is the achievement
of the triangle within the square.
Division 4 can be grasped as the
student arrives at a comprehension of his own nature as a spiritual triad,
an egoic body and a threefold lower man.
424. Here the division is
slightly different from that suggested above.
425. The division here suggested
concerns the vehicles within man’s energy system rather than the planes,
although focus on the etheric subplane and the buddhic plane as the middle
point between the three and three is also legitimate.
426. Notice in relation to
Division 4, the Monad is left out of the picture.
He can likewise approach the first division in a similar manner, and
view himself as a primary force or Monad, a triple secondary [Page 924] force or
Ego, and a threefold lower energy, or personality,
427. Yes, this fits very well.
We would be dealing then with the three periodical vehicles.
428. The more permanent Ego, let
us remember, is the spiritual triad.
429. We see there are number of
ways for us to apply these divisions.
remembering that we are here dealing only with
creative energy and with the Brahma aspect of manifestation as it co-ordinates
itself with the Vishnu aspect.
430. The emphasis in this
section of the book is very much on the deva kingdom which represents the deva
aspect of the duality “man and deva”.
431. The devas as a whole
represent largely the third or creative aspect. The name which Master DK
prefers for the third ray is the “Ray of Creative Intelligence”.
432. The devas are related most
to the third and second aspects of divinity whereas man is related to the
second and first aspects.
The Transmitters of Prana.
We have in an earlier section of this treatise considered somewhat the
devas who are the transmitters of prana for the etheric body of man and of the
planet.
433. This group was called an “intermediary”
group. They were called “a group of intermediary devas”.
434. We can see that the
"Transmitters of the Word" are related to the first aspect.
435. We may assume that the
“Transmitters of Prana” are to be related to the second or solar aspect.
436. The third group consists of
those devas who form (or ‘structure’) the physical body of every form in
manifestation. They are still devas and not elementals.
They are the reflection upon the lowest
plane of the Vishnu aspect of divinity;
437. We are returning to our
consideration of the etheric-physical plane and especially its etheric aspect.
438. The lowest plane of the
Vishnu aspect of divinity is the buddhic plane.
439. The lowest plane, the
etheric-physical plane (and, in this case, especially the etheric levels
of the etheric-physical plane) receives the reflection of the buddhic plane.
The fourth plane of the cosmic physical plane is reflected in the fourfold
systemic etheric subplanes.
440. Naturally, the
“Transmitters of Prana” work within the systemic etheric planes.
the seven subplanes of our physical plane reflect
in a dim and distorted fashion the three aspects,
441. We are speaking of the systemic
physical plane.
442. The Brahmic aspect is
reflected in the three dense subplanes (solid, liquid and gaseous).
443. The Vishnu aspect is
reflected in the etheric, super-etheric and sub-atomic subplanes of the
etheric-physical plane.
444. The Shiva aspect of
divinity is reflected upon the systemic atomic etheric plane.
445. In proposing this, we are
simply collapsing the pattern of expression found upon the cosmic physical
plane and bringing it down to the systemic physical plane.
and are a shadow, dark and unrevealing, of the
Godhead.
446. More, however, can be
revealed through the ethers than through the very lowest physical subplanes.
This group of transmitters are
responsible for three principal results, and are active along three main lines.
447. We are speaking of the
Transmitters of Prana, of that intermediate group of devas working between the
"Transmitters of the Word" and the ‘devas of structure and formation’,
as we might call them.
They are the devas who
vitalise and produce the energy of all forms of sentient life. Theirs is the life which pulsates through the
etheric body of every plant and animal and of all intermediate forms of life,
and which constitutes the raging fire which is seen circulating through all
etheric vehicles.
448. Let us tabulate for
clarity:
a.
These pranic transmitters vitalize and produce the energy of all
forms of sentient life
b.
Their life pulsates through the etheric body of every plant,
animal, and intermediate form of life. (DK has spoken of these transitional
life forms acting as bridges between adjacent kingdoms.)
c.
Their life is seen as the raging fire circulating through the form
of the etheric body.
Among many other functions they
produce the warmth of the sun and of all bodies; they are the cause of solar,
planetary, and human radiation, and they nourish and preserve all forms. They occultly mediate between the Father and
the Mother on each plane, whether cosmic or systemic.
449. Again let us tabulate with
respect to their functions:
a.
They produce the warmth of the sun
b.
They produce the warmth of all bodies
c.
They cause solar, planetary and human radiation
d.
They nourish and preserve all forms
e.
They mediate between Father and Mother on each plane.
450. We can see, by examining
their functions, that these devas are closely connected to the Solar Angels.
Within this devic world they represent the mediating second aspect.
They originate in the sun,
451. Here we seem to be talking
of the physical sun and not of higher planes associated with the Sun or Solar
Logos.
and are closely related to the logoic and
planetary solar plexus, for the evolutionary process, as in all
manifestation, is the result of desire, acting upon the creative faculties and
producing that which is objective.
452. We might say that we human
beings have energy (prana) for that which we desire. When the desire
ceases, prana seems less available to us.
453. We note that that solar
plexus is the solar plexus and is a source of considerable
animation within the energy system of man.
454. People with a highly
activated solar plexus center are considered to be ‘alive’ and demonstrate
enthusiasm and energy in the pursuit of what they desire.
They are the devas who energise
the myriads of minute lives which build the etheric bodies of all that is seen
and tangible,
455. Presumably these “myriads
of minute lives” are elemental in their nature, yet they could be devic.
456. They have, however, not
been called “devic”—at least not in this context.
457. Devas, however, are true builders
whereas elementals are built into rather than building.
458. Yet, we are missing a
discussion of those devas which go to the formation of etheric structures.
and who are the instigators of the
creative processes on the three lowest subplanes of the physical plane.
459. The Transmitters of Prana
are here called “instigators” in relation to the processes on the lower
subplanes of the physical plane.
460. Prana drives the physical
form forward. Interestingly, the Rising-sign is said to animate the
human being and to be possessed of “driving energies”. We might, therefore,
think of them as ‘animators’ or ‘life givers’, if we understand life as
vitality.
461. Without these “Transmitters
of Prana” there would be no creative processes on the three lowest subplanes of
the physical plane.
Systemically, the devas engaged
in this line of activity can be subdivided into two groups: [Page 925]
462. So many divisions and
subdivisions! It becomes necessary to keep the entire structure clear.
Diagramming is needed.
a. Those who
work on the four higher systemic planes and from thence influence in the
three worlds, producing through reflex action the desired results.
463. Here our perspective is the
cosmic physical plane. These “Transmitters of Prana” work upon the cosmic
etheric planes.
464. We remember that the
"Transmitters of the Word" on the logoic plane worked only on the lowest
three levels of that plane.
465. Yet “Transmitters of Prana”
are lower in their nature than "Transmitters of the Word". We
can see that some need of clarification lies before us.
466. On which of the subplanes
of the logoic plane do the “Transmitters of Prana” resident on that plane actually
work?
467. If we follow the analogy
(remembering the “Transmitters of Prana” to be an “intermediary group”), we
would expect them to be at work on the second, third and fourth subplanes of
the “four higher systemic planes” under discussion, yet there are
"Transmitters of the Word" working beneath those levels.
b. Those who
work in the three worlds of human endeavour, producing directly dense
physical manifestation.
468. Presumably these “Transmitters
of Prana” do not only work on the systemic physical plane. DK here
discusses the “three worlds of human endeavour”.
469. All systemic planes must be
pranically vitalized.
470. Just how ‘etheric’ are the
higher four subplanes of the astral and mental planes?
471. Certainly, however, the
second and lower group of these “Transmitters of Prana” work within the four
systemic ethers, from there “producing directly dense physical manifestation”.
472. It becomes necessary to see
on which planes the Army of the Voice work. Then, maybe, we can clarify the
planes of focus for the “Transmitters of Prana”.
473. The following statement
about the Army of the Voice must be factored into our considerations:
They work only on etheric levels—either
upon our physical plane or on the cosmic etheric levels. They are therefore active in the realm of
maya, which is the etheric plane as we usually understand it, or upon the planes
of the Spiritual Triad. They are not active on the three gross
physical levels or upon the astral or mental planes, nor are they active upon
the highest or logoic plane. There they are implicit or latent but
not active. (R&I 179)
474. “Transmitters of Prana”
work on all the four cosmic ethers, and yet, the highest members of the
Army of the Voice do not. Yet earlier, “Transmitters of Prana” were to be
considered members of the Army of the Voice.
All the etheric devas who
transmit energy on the physical plane belong to the second division
[a lower
division] above enumerated, and according to the subplane on which they
work come under the guidance of a greater intelligence on a corresponding
plane.
475. We are speaking of etheric
devas who transmit energy on the physical plane. By this is meant the
etheric-physical plane.
476. All such devas belong to
the second division, “Group b.”
477. We are speaking here of
linking the systemic etheric subplanes with the cosmic etheric planes. There
are four cosmic ethers and four systemic ethers.
478. Upon and within the cosmic
ethers, there are greater intelligences than are to be found upon and within
the systemic etheric subplanes. No lesser form of life is left without
guidance.
479. We are being told that the
various “Transmitters of Prana” on the systemic etheric subplanes are being
guided by higher, and corresponding Transmitters of Prana on the cosmic etheric
planes.
There are also the
devas who form the attractive force of all subhuman forms, holding the
forms of the three lower kingdoms of nature together in coherency,
480. Here we may have the
necessary distinction between devic life and elemental life.
481. DK seems to be speaking of
a third kind of deva—not a “Transmitter of Prana” (though prana does serve
coherency) but one that holds the substantial forms of all subhuman entities
together.
482. Such a devic type would
essential hold the elemental lives in coherency. This type of deva would
be closely related to the third aspect of divinity and yet use the force of
coherency which functions of the second aspect.
483. We have ben calling such
devas “structural, structuring or formative” devas.
and thus producing the body of
manifestation of the great Entity who is the sumtotal of the life of the
kingdom, and of the lesser beings who ensoul different families and groups
within any specific kingdom.
484. This type of devic being
can hold together bodies of manifestation for very great entities and for all
the many differentiated lives within the “great Entity”.
485. Thus, in the course of this
Commentary, we have discussed great devas who are "Transmitters of the
Word", those who are “Transmitters of Prana” and those who hold in
coherency those etheric forms through which the “Word” and prana are to be
transmitted.
486. We have been given many
classifications of devas, yet some steps and links have been deliberately left
out. Our task is to piece things together from what we have been given, and,
indeed, we have been given enough to erect a useful hypothetical structure of
inter-devic relations and deva-human relations.