Each of these different functions/purposes
are associated with different consequences, outwardly and inwardly.
22.
p.
104: Define the distinction between the three types of disorders of the
etheric body: functional, organic and static.
Viewed from the planetary standpoint the same conditions
will be perceived, and the etheric planetary body [Page 105] (which is fundamentally
the body in the case of the sacred planets, of which the Earth is
not one) will have its functional disorders, which will affect its reception of prana, will suffer its organic troubles which may affect its distribution, and those disorders which permit of trouble in the etheric web, which forms the ring-pass-not
for the involved planetary Spirit.
11.
He now considers the situation
from the planetary perspective. The planetary etheric body (considered from
the solar system point of view) “is fundamentally the body in the
case of the sacred planets (which doesn’t include the Earth). This body
will register all three functional disorders, i.e. how prana is received,
distributed and the nature of the web itself. However, the Heavenly Men
(who inform the planets) can move outside the bounds of the planetary sphere
while remaining within the solar systemic ring-pass-not.
12.
Why italicise the?
Perhaps what He is explaining is that it is
the etheric planetary body which really matters, rather than the material
form of the planets, which we see from earth via telescopes. It is the body because this is the vehicle which
receives the solar prana. This determines the three functions which we have
been considering.
13.
Another important hint is given:
for the sacred planets, the etheric body is “fundamentally the body”.
Such Logoi have overcome the magnetic influence of the dense physical vehicle,
which the Logos of Earth has not. For the Lotos of Earth, the dense physical
vehicle is still fundamentally the body.
14.
A Planetary Logos in incarnation
is an “involved planetary Spirit”.
15.
A sacred planet is one in which the informing
Intelligence has taken the planetary fifth initiation.
No planet is a sacred planet unless the centre at the base of the
spine (speaking symbolically) is aroused and the great fusion of energies
resulting therefrom has been effected. I refer to this particular world
cycle and period and to the state of affairs in this the fifth or Aryan
root-race. (EA 453)
16.
This arousal occurs only at the
fifth degree (by analogy to fifth degree requirements for the human being—R&I
340)
17.
There is also this direct statement:
Basically it might be said that a planet is regarded as "sacred"
when its informing spiritual Life has taken five of the major cosmic initiations
and that a "non-sacred" planet is one whose planetary Logos has
not taken these initiations. This is an inadequate definition and is only
in any way to be understood if you bear in mind that initiation is a process
of developing inclusiveness. (EA 503)
Here I would point out that in the case of the planetary
Spirits Who are on the divine evolutionary arc, the Heavenly Men Whose bodies
are planets, the etheric web does not form a barrier, but (like the
Karmic Lords on a higher plane) They have freedom of movement outside
the bounds of the planetary web within the circumference of the solar ring-pass-not.46
18.
In the section immediately above,
there is no discrimination between sacred and non-sacred Planetary Spirits.
For both, the etheric web does not form a barrier.
19.
It appears that Karmic Lords are
found on a still higher plane than Heavenly Men.
20.
It also appears that Heavenly Men
have freedom of movement “outside the bounds of the planetary etheric web
within the circumference of the solar ring-pass-not”. This may have something
to do with the ‘felt presence’ of the various planetary Logoi on our planet.
21.
We must look into this term “freedom
of movement”; it must refer to consciousness, as the body of any planet
has very little freedom of movement, being confined (by Law) to its orbit.
FOOTNOTE 46: The planetary Spirit is another term for the
Logos of our planet, one of the "seven Spirits before the Throne,"
and therefore one of the seven Heavenly Men. He is on the evolutionary
arc of the universe, and has passed many stages beyond the human.
The planetary Entity is on the involutionary arc and is
a very low grade Entity. He is the sum total of all the elemental
lives of the planet.)
22.
An important distinction is made
between the Planetary Spirit and the Planetary Entity. A Planetary Spirit
is a Heavenly Man (one of the Seven Spirits before the Throne (of the Solar
Logos). Sometime the term “Heavenly Man” is to be discriminated from that
of “Planetary Logos”, but not in this case.
23.
The Planetary Entity, comprised
of many unconscious lives, is, on his own level, unconscious.
Again from the systemic standpoint, these same effects
may be observed, functionally, this time in connection with the cosmic
centre; organically, in connection with the sum total of the planetary
systems; and statically, in connection with the solar or logoic ring-pass-not.
24.
The three terms, “functionally”,
“organically” and “statically” seem to relate to the first, second and third
rays respectively.
25.
The term “functionally” relates
to vitalization from a greater cosmic center.
26.
The term “organically” relates to
the inclusive distribution of prana within the Solar Logos’ own system.
27.
The term “statically” relates to
the holding of a ring-pass-not between the Solar Logos’ physical solar system
and His own astral body (or more widely, the cosmic astral plane).
28.
What may be the cosmic centre from
which our solar system receives the prana which it will then qualify?
If analogy holds good, if will be from an Entity
which comprises it as a chakra, and therefore from the cosmic Entity which
expresses through seven sacred Suns (i.e., which expresses through the Seven
Solar Systems of which ours is One—SSSOWOIO).
We might now, for purposes of clarity, take up these three
groups separately and briefly touch upon them and hint (for more will not
be possible) at methods of cure and of adjustment.
29.
The three types of disorders are
taken up separately, first in relation to the microcosm, man.
a. Microcosmic
functional disorders. These have to do with the reception
by man, via the necessary centres, of the pranic fluids.
30.
Note again, the use of the words
“fluids”. Probably this term will (to the physicist of the future) reveal
the dynamics of pranic flows.
31.
Microcosmic functional disorders. How these planetary functional disorders work
out isn’t explained.
We must always bear in mind, and thus keep the distinction
clear, that these emanations of prana have to do with the heat latent in
matter; when received and functioning through the etheric body correctly,
they co-operate with the natural latent bodily [Page 106]
warmth, and (merging therewith) hold the body in a vitalised condition,
imposing upon the matter of the body a certain rate of vibratory action
that leads to the necessary activity of the physical vehicle, and the right
functioning of its organs.
32.
The cooperative interplay in the
microcosm between pranic emanation and “the heat latent in matter” (the
“natural latent bodily warmth”) is here discussed.
33.
Without this interplay, the physical
body would not be vitalized. This vitalization occurs through an imposition
“upon the matter of the body a certain rate of vibratory action”.
34.
We perhaps little suspect how dependent
is the physical body upon vitalization from the etheric body.
It will, therefore, be apparent that the A.
B. C. of bodily health is wrapped up in the right reception of prana,
and that one of the basic changes that must be made in the life of the human
animal (which is the aspect we are dealing with now) will be in the ordinary
conditions of living.
35.
When dealing with the fires of matter,
we are dealing with the animal nature of man, not with his psyche.
36.
Nothing could be more practical
than what is here discussed. Upon humanity’s health depends much of its
effectiveness within the Divine Plan.
The three fundamental centres whereby reception is brought
about must be allowed to function with greater freedom, and with less restriction.
Now, owing to centuries of wrong living, and to basic mistakes (originating
in Lemurian days) man's three pranic centres are not in good working order.
The centre between the shoulder blades is in the best receptive condition,
though owing to the poor condition of the spinal column (which in so many
is out of accurate alignment), its position in the back is apt to be misplaced.
The splenic centre near the diaphragm is sub-normal in size and its vibration
is not correct. In the case of the aboriginal dwellers in such localities
as the South Seas, better etheric conditions will be found; the life they
lead is more normal (from the animal standpoint) than in any other portion
of the world.
37.
Very practical adjustments are in
order and the Tibetan becomes specific.
38.
One wonders about the nature of
these “basic mistakes” and why they are not elaborated here. Perhaps they concern clothing, carriage and food.
39.
Since the center between the shoulder
blades is presently in better working order than the other two centers in
the pranic triangle, advantage should be taken of this fact.
40.
We can see the importance of correct
posture. Medical disciplines such as the chiropractic science attempt to
address the misalignments of which the Tibetan speaks.
41.
If the aboriginal dwellers in the
South Seas are have healthier etheric bodies due to
more natural living conditions, it may be assumed that their splenic center
is not sub-normal in size.
The race suffers from certain incapacities, which may be
described as follows:
42.
There now follows a list of the
liabilities from which the race suffers in relation to the health of the
etheric body.
First. Inability to tap pranic currents, owing to
the unhealthy lives passed by so many. This involves the cutting off
of the source of supply, and the consequent atrophying and shrinkage of
the receptive centres. This is seen in an exaggerated form in the
children of the congested quarters of any great city, and in the vitiated
anemic dwellers of the slums. The cure is apparent—the bringing about
of better living conditions, the employment [Page 107] of more appropriate
clothing, and the adoption of a freer and more salubrious mode of living.
When the pranic rays can find free access to the shoulders, and to the diaphragm,
the subnormal state of the average spleen will adjust itself automatically.
43.
As the Tibetan sees it, the lives
of very many human beings are judged unhealthy.
44.
Because the source of pranic supply
is cut off, the organs of reception, assimilation and distribution have
shrunk and atrophied.
45.
Anemia (which is a low red blood
cell count) is the result of this devitalization.
46.
The cure is not difficult:
a.
Better living conditions
b.
More appropriate clothing
c.
A freer and more healthy way of
living
47.
In considering these requirements,
the influences of freedom promoting Jupiter and Uranus must take the place
of the sometimes cramping effects of Saturn.
48.
It is obvious that relating rightly
to the Sun leads to vitalization.
Second. Over-ability to tap pranic currents.
The first type of functional disorder is common and widespread.
Its reverse can be found where conditions of life are such that the centres
(through too direct and prolonged submittal to solar emanation) become overdeveloped,
vibrate too rapidly, and receive prana in too great an amount.
49.
Upon initial consideration, this
would not appear to be a problem; in any case, it is rarer than the first
problem.
50.
However we note the cautions against
a “too robust” constitutiion, which may dampen the ability of the inner
light to shine. Perhaps this refers to the “rude health”, which can form
a barrier which more sensitized instruments do not face.
This is rarer, but is found in some tropical countries,
and is responsible for much of the troublesome debility that attacks dwellers
in these lands.
51.
It is recognized that living in
tropical climes can be enervating.
52.
Next (middle of p 105),
He points out that these functional effects have an impact on the social
system. They influence the cosmic centre, the nature of the planetary systems,
and the ring-pass-not of the solar web.
53.
In clarifying these
points, He moves to the Microcosmic level – please note. The three functions
will affect prana within the human context. When prana is received it should
merge with the latent bodily heat, vitalise it and influence its vibratory
action which controls physical activity and the operation of the organs.
Hence the lifestyle of the dense physical must relate to the proper operation
of these etheric functions.
54.
This means that the
three receiving centres of prana must have “greater freedom and less restriction”.
However, due to past human errors (particularly in Lemurian days) the pranic
centres are not in good working order. The centre between the shoulder blades
is most nearly aligned, though it is apt to be improperly positioned since
many spinal columns are to some extent misaligned. The splenic centre is
too small and is not correctly vibrating.
55.
The dwellers in the
South Seas have a more healthy etheric condition because
their physical lives are “more normal”.
The etheric body receives prana or solar rays too rapidly,
passes it through and out of the system with too much force, and this leaves
the victim a prey to inertia and devitalisation.
56.
This rapid passage of prana into
and out of the system would give little opportunity for correct assimilation.
Putting it otherwise, the etheric body becomes
lazy, is like an unstrung web, or (to use a very homely illustration)
it resembles a tennis racket which has become too soft, and has lost its
resilience.
57.
We see that all aspects of the body
must be made to work or they will lose their tone and functionality.
58.
What would be appropriate exercises
or asanas that serve to improve the vitality of the etheric body? Are there
general breathing techniques that are vitalizing without being over-stimulating
to a general population?
The inner triangle transmits the pranic emanations
with too great rapidity, giving no time for the subsidiary absorption,
[by the dense physical body] and the whole
system is thereby the loser. Later it will be found that many of the
ills that Europeans, living in India, fall heir to, originate in this way;
and by attention, therefore, to the spleen, and by wise control of living
conditions, some of the trouble may be obviated.
59.
Those venturing to the tropics from
northern countries and not used to the conditions they encounter, and suffer
accordingly.
60.
What sort of attention shall be
given to the spleen? Shall it be protected from too great exposure?
61.
We see that both these types of
trouble are the result of excesses—either excessive privation or excessive
exposure. A more balanced approach will lead to better health.
62.
The human race as a whole has
“certain incapacities”:
a.
Inability properly to tap pranic
currents due to unhealthy lifestyles. Hence the pranic supply is diminished
and the receptive centre shrinks. Children in city slums tend to illustrate.
The answer lies in improved living conditions, more appropriate clothing
and a more salubrious lifestyle. If the pranic rays are allowed proper access
to the shoulders and diaphragm, the centres for pranic reception will adjust.
b.
Reception of too much prana.
This is less common that item 1 but does occur in some tropical countries,
where solar rays are received too rapidly and prana passed through the body
with too much force with the result that the etheric web loses its resilience.
Moreover, the speed of transmission doesn’t allow for sufficient absorption
of prana. The problem can be diminished by attention to the spleen and a
healthier lifestyle. Wise exposure to solar radiation and in relation
to the Earth’s rotary action can address both problems 1 and 2.
In touching upon similar conditions in the planet, both
these types of trouble will be found. More cannot be said, but in
the wise study of solar radiation upon the surface of the planet in connection
with its rotary action, some of the group rules of health may be comprehended
and followed.
63.
The Tibetan only hints at similar
problems on a planetary level, and the hint is obscure.
64.
The rotation of the Earth apparently
does not vary in speed.
65.
Does the rotation of the various
human vehicles vary according to the extent of pranic radiation received?
Perhaps the circulation of energies and forces within the vehicles varies.
66.
We do see that when discussing planetary
conditions, we are not speaking so much of individual health as of
group health (or as the Tibetan puts it, “group rules of health”).
The spirit of the planet (or the planetary entity)
likewise has his cycles, and in the absorption of [Page 108] planetary prana,
and in its correct distribution, lies the secret of fertility and equable
vegetation.
67.
When we consider the Earth’s vegetation,
we note that there are many places of aridity and consequent infertility.
The surface of the Earth is certainly not covered equably with vegetation.
Probably analogies can be drawn in relation to the human body which in many
cases has over- and under-vitalized areas.
68.
We can conclude, therefore, that
solar prana is neither correctly received not distributed by the etheric
body of our planet. It may be justly said, that our planet is presently
not in good health.
69.
Yet how do we apply this idea of
“fertility and equable vegetation” to planets other than earth, or does
this apply only to Earth?
70.
From what we know astrophysically,
the geology of each known planet is wholly diverse. Do
they not receive and assimilate prana in the same way that Earth does? Is
there perhaps some hint of the division of the gaseous planets and the rocky
planets. [Are the rocky ones the ones in the Quaternary, e.g.?]
71.
The idea of “equable vegetation”
suggests the influence of both Venus (the planet governing the vegetable
kingdom) and the sign that it exoterically rules (Libra), the sign of balance
and equability.
72.
Libra, we are told, is growing in
influence in the planetary horoscope, and will affect positively, the environmental
movement, which seeks to restore a balance of energies and forces throughout
the planet (and especially on the physical plane in relation to the four
lower kingdoms of nature—mineral, vegetable, animal and human).
73.
The planetary entity
also has its cycles and the absorption of planetary prana and its correct
distribution furthers the vegetable kingdom. The fable of the war between
water and fire is relevant here. The fire of matter (symbolised by water)
reacts with the fire playing upon matter (prana). There is an interval before
these two fires blend. The karmic inheritance of the Earth entity creates
some instability and unequal pranic distribution. Uniform vibration will
eventually be achieved as race equilibrium is reached along with equilibrium
between the planets and this will even out the distribution of prana.
Much of this is hidden in the fabled story of the
war between fire and water, which has its basis in the reaction of the fire
latent in matter, to the fire emanating outside of matter, and playing upon
it.
74.
The fire latent in matter is more
closely related to water and moisture than the radiatory fires “emanating
outside of matter and playing upon it”.
75.
We know that both moisture and Sun
(water and fire) are necessary for the flourishing of vegetative life (affecting,
of course, animal life). The maladjustment between solar radiation and the
moisture/water, symbolically ruled by the Moon, contributes to conditions
of insufficient fertility (and, perhaps, to the excessive fertility of the
jungle).
In the interval that has to elapse while the two
are in process of blending, come those periods where, through karmic inheritance,
reception is unstable and distribution inequable.
76.
Fire and water are in process of
blending correctly, but there are transitional periods which are unstable
and characterized by inequable distribution. Earth appears to be in precisely
just such a period.
Q77.
What would be the criteria do determine
Earth’s state of health, with an appropriately long-term view, such as the
Manu must make? Is it due to current environmental issues with which we
are aware and perhaps in control of that we believe things are worse than
they are, or is the environment truly in a runaway catastrophy requiring
all mobilization? What is the assessment among best studies today? Is Earth,
essentially, fragile or robust?
As the point of race equilibrium is reached, so planetary
equilibrium will likewise be attained, and in planetary attainment will
come the equilibrium that must mutually take place between the solar planets.
When they attain a mutual balance and interaction then the system is stabilised
and perfection reached. The even distribution of prana will parallel
this balancing in the man, in the race, in the planet and in the system.
This is but another way of saying that uniform vibration will be achieved.
78.
Equilibrium in the lower groupings
leads to eventual equilibrium in the higher groupings which include the
lower. In this way, the achievement of equilibrium works from below to above.
79.
It is interesting that, astrologically,
the Sun has a certain relationship to Libra (the sign of equilibrium) known
as a “fall”. The Sun falls in Libra, for assertive, self-centered solar
tendencies are moderated, equilibrated and decentralized. Under this influence,
there arises a tendency towards distribution rather than centralization.
It is precisely this distribution which, ecologically, we are attempting
to achieve.
80.
Some of this more even distribution
will be achieved during the Aquarian Age (Aquarius is the sign of distribution),
in which the sign Libra (like Aquarius an air sign) will be strengthened.
b. Microcosmic organic disorders. These are
basically two in number:
Troubles due to congestion.
Destruction of tissue due to over-absorption of prana,
or its too rapid blending with latent physical fire.
81.
These two problems are closely related.
We have a curious illustration of both of these forms of
trouble in sun stroke and in heat stroke. Though supposedly understood
by physicians, they are nevertheless altogether etheric disorders.
82.
A useful medical hint is given—one
that should direct physicians who treat these maladies towards a study of
the etheric body.
When the nature of the etheric body is better understood,
and its wise care followed both these types of disease will be prevented.
They are due to solar pranic emanation; in one case the effect of the emanation
is to bring about death or serious illness through the congestion of an
etheric channel, while in the other the same result is brought about by
destruction of etheric matter.
83.
Death and serious illness can be
brought about by either congestion or the destruction of etheric matter.
84.
Usually, in esotericism, the Moon
is considered to be the bringer of death and disease:
When the building energies of the soul are active in
the body, then there is health, clean interplay and right activity.
When the builders are the lunar lords and those who work under the control
of the moon and at the behest of the lower Personal self, then you have
disease, ill health and death. (EH 191)
85.
We see, however, that the energies
of the Sun, poorly understood and wrongly appropriated can equally bring
disease and death.
Qp.105-108:
Consider the microcosmic functional disorders. How do they work
out in the life of man? To what extent do you believe that you as an individual
suffer from this microcosmic disorder?
The above illustration has been used with definite intent,
[Page 109] but it should be pointed out that etheric congestion may lead
to many forms of disease and of mental incompetence.
86.
Etheric congestion, therefore, is
not only to be found in relation to the mal-appropriation of solar
pranic currents. It is a general problem with many attendant difficulties.
Etheric congestion leads to the thickening
of the web to an abnormal extent, and this thickening may prevent, for instance,
contact with the higher Self or principles and its resultants, idiocy and
mental unbalance.
87.
A very interesting explanation of
some forms of mental disorder or imbalance. Excommunication from the higher
Self and higher principles leave the remaining immersed consciousness in
a relatively subhuman state.
88.
As DK has emphasized in other books
(notably EP II), cleavage is at the root of many human ailments.
It may lead to abnormal fleshy development, to the
thickening of some internal organ, and consequent undue pressure; one portion
of the etheric body being congested may lead to the entire physical condition
being upset, resulting in diverse complaints.
89.
Some specifics regarding the consequences
of etheric congestion are given.
90.
The general effect is “thickening”
creating pressure and lack of balance. Any undue concentration of force
(or undue lack) leads to a condition of imbalance and improper circulation.
Destruction of tissue may lead to insanity of many kinds,
especially those kinds deemed incurable. The burning of the web may
let in extraneous astral currents against which man is helpless; the brain
tissue may be literally destroyed by this pressure, and serious trouble
be caused through the etheric ring-pass-not having been destroyed in some
one place.
91.
Here DK discusses the premature
destruction of the etheric web.
92.
The admission of “extraneous astral
currents” can lead to insanity—thought, feeling and action which are interrupted
and rendered chaotic. The result—an uncontrolled life.
93.
The insanity is incurable because
the disruptive intrusion cannot be stopped.
94.
It appears that brain tissue is
destroyed not so much by the burning of the web but by the pressure of the
admitted astral currents.
95.
Those who eagerly seek communication
with the astral plane should take these thoughts into consideration.
In connection with the planet a similar state of affairs
may be found. Later information may be forthcoming, which is at present
withheld; this will show that whole races have been influenced, and certain
kingdoms of nature troubled by planetary etheric congestion, or the destruction
of planetary etheric tissue.
96.
On a planetary level, we have the
disruption of the lives of “whole races”, but the specific information is
withheld. We do know of astrally obsessed groups. The German people, for
instance, with its vulnerable Pisces personality, may have been one such
group (during the Second World War).
97.
The point to be gathered is that
the problem of congestion or destruction is not simply an individual problem,
but can affect planetary groups with very difficult results.
98.
b. Microcosmic organic disorders. In this regard, there are troubles
due to congestion clogging of the web or else destruction of tissue due
to over-absorption of prana or its too rapid blending with the latent heat
of matter. A consequence of these two is sun stroke or heat stroke. These
are basically problems of the etheric. However, etheric congestion may bring
in all manner of disease and mental incompetence. If the web becomes
thickened, the etheric body becomes an inadequate vehicle for the soul and
this precipitates mental instability. Moreover, a thinkened web can lead
to the thickening of some internal organs and various complaints. If the
web becomes burnt, astral currents can influence the person or the brain
tend to burning.
99.
These points apply at the planetary level too. Etheric congestion and the destruction
of etheric planetary tissue has affected entire races and certain kingdoms
of nature.
We have dealt with the functional and organic ills of the
etheric, giving certain indications for the extension of the concept to
other realms than the purely human. In the human kingdom lies the
key, but the turning of that key opens up a door to a wider interpretation
as it admits one into the mysteries of nature.
100.
It would seem that in the hands
of humanity lie important developments for the planet as a whole.
101.
The key that humanity may turn will
have more than individual implications; the turning will lead to an possible
apprehension of larger wholes.
Though that key has to be turned seven times, yet
even one turn reveals untold avenues of eventual comprehension.47,48
102.
We begin to understand why AAB considered
A Treatise on Cosmic Fire but the ABC of occult knowledge.
103.
Interestingly, below there is mention
of seven key to the Secret Doctrine, but as many as ten keys are listed.
104.
In the human kingdom lies the answer
to the etheric ills. Human beings have the key – which needs to be turned
seven times. Like all keys, this one has to be turned seven times in three
locks. Yet even one turn would radically alter the interpretation
of health and disease.
Footnote 47: The keys to the Secret Doctrine, by
H. P. Blavatsky. See S. D., I, 343; note; II, 551.
1. Every symbol and allegory has seven keys.—S. D., II,
567; III, 3.
105.
A “key” in this case is that which
will reveal the Ancient Mysteries according to a particular perspective.
106.
Probably, there is one master
key that will reveal the entirety of the Wisdom from all perspectives.
2. Only three keys available in the nineteenth century.—S.
D., II, 543. Compare II, 617, 842.
107.
By these three keys are probably
meant the physiological, astronomical and metaphysical keys.
3. There are seven keys to the Entrance door to the Mysteries.—S.
D., III, 178. Compare I, 346; II, 330; II, 668, II, 731.
4. The keys, as hinted by H. P. B., are:
a. Psychological.—S. D., II, 25, note; I, 389.
108.
Dealing with the qualitative relationship
between earthly, systemic and cosmic entities and the means by which they
know each other.
b. Astronomical.—S. D., II, 25, note; I, 389; III, 198.
109.
Dealing with the cycles and physical
interplay of the major (for us) planets, stars and constellations.
c. Physical or physiological.—S. D., II, 25, note; III,
198.
110.
Revealing the reflection in matter
of archetypal patterns, and the secret powers contained within the physical
mechanism.
d. Metaphysical.—S. D., II, 25, note; II, 394.
111.
Dealing with the philosophical understanding
of all Earthly, systemic and cosmic relations, and the Divine Creative Process.
The universe is considered as Will and Idea.
e. Anthropological.—S. D., I, 389; III, 198.
112.
Dealing with the formal, physiological,
psychological and spiritual aspects of the various races of human beings
and the manner in which these races, developmentally, reveal the intended
unfoldments of the Divine Plan (in relation to Earth).
f. Astrological.—S. D., II, 343.
113.
Dealing with the qualities of the
major (for us) planets, stars and constellations their qualitative interplay
and the physical, psychological and spiritual meaning of their cycles.
g. Geometrical.—S. D., II, 494; III, 176.
114.
Revealing the manner in which the
Grand Geometrician geometrizes in both matter and form.
h. Mystical.—S. D., I, 401.
115.
Dealing with the experienced fusion
or union of cosmic entities with the entities which include them; man in
relation to the soul, the soul in relation to the monad, the monad in relation
to the Planetary Logos, etc.
i. Symbolical.—S. D., II, 561.
116.
Dealing with the manner in which
the greatest Truths are not literally conveyed but symbolically represented.
j. Numerical.—S. D., II, 198.
117.
Dealing with the Divine Numerology
on the principle of which all things are built and organized—since the Primary
Entities in cosmos are Numbers.
5. Each key must be turned seven times.—S. D., I, 22.
118.
At the very least, this means, one
turn for each plane and in relation to each of the seven major principles.
Each turning of the key admits the enquirer more deeply into an understanding
of and participation in the mysteries of the Divine Process.
6. The Jews availed themselves of two keys out of the seven.
119.
Presumably (from what HPB has said
elsewhere) one of these was the physical or physiological key. Another may
have been the astronomical key (cf. SD II 631, note). Both of these would
correlate with the number three which is closely related to the origin
of the Jews in the first solar system (governed by the third ray), and to
the personality nature of the Jews colored by the third ray. But the astronomical
key is not listed as “available” (i.e., the physiological, psychological,
astrological, metaphysical and geometrical), and elsewhere DK speaks of
attempting to give some of the astrological key, so the Jews cannot have
discovered it in its entirety.
Just as A Treatise on Cosmic Fire endeavoured
to give the psychological key to The Secret Doctrine and to interpret
the underlying consciousness which the Beings (considered in The Secret
Doctrine) express, so in A Treatise on the Seven Rays, I am
carrying on the same idea and, at the same time, seeking to give the needed
key to modern exoteric psychology and also some indications as to
the astrological key to The Secret Doctrine to which H.P.B. refers.
(EA 290)
The Ancient Wisdom teaches that "space is an entity."
It is with the life of this entity and with the forces and energies, the
impulses and the rhythms, the cycles and the times and seasons that esoteric
astrology deals. H.P.B. stated this in The Secret Doctrine.
I would remind you that there is an astrological key to The Secret
Doctrine which cannot yet be given in completeness. (EA 7)
120.
We are learning that a key may be
partially turned, but not necessarily turned in completeness.
7. The Metaphysical key is available.—S. D., I, 338.
Compare III, 198.)
121.
Is The Secret Doctrine itself,
the “Metaphysical Key”? It certainly deals
with divine theogony and philosophical cosmogony, which are both metaphysical
themes.
FOOTNOTE 48: "The seven keys open the mysteries, past
and future, of the seven great rootraces and of the seven kalpas."
Every occult book, symbol and allegory can be subjected to seven interpretations.
There are three locks to be opened. [Each related to one of the three great Divine Aspects]
Seven keys. Every book can be read exoterically, subjectively and
spiritually. [According to the three Divine Aspects]
All the keys are not yet available. (See Secret Doctrine,
I, 330, 343.) There is the physiological key, the psychological,
the astrological and the metaphysical. The fifth key is the geometrical.)
122.
HPB is here speaking of available
keys: physiological, psychology, astrological, metaphysical and geometrical
(whether or not completely available).
123.
We have often been told that A
Treatise on Cosmic Fire is the “psychological key” to the “The Secret
Doctrine”. Is the book meant, or that body of knowledge known as The
Secret Doctrine?
124.
The Keys - This issue is tackled in the form of a Note on pp 109-110.
The following are the principal points: There are seven keys, though ten
are listed. Presumably the explanation is that some of the keys are now
sufficiently developed to manifest via several sub-types. The keys listed
are:
a. Psychological
b. Astronomical
c. Physical or physiological
d. Metaphysical
e. Anthropological
f. Astrological
g. Geometrical
h. Mystical
i. Symbolical
j. Numerical.
How the ten make seven is an issue where we might like to speculate.
However, since this is speculative, we may find it much easier simply to
work with 10 keys until we understand them better.
125.
We can make some statements
based on the information provided in the Treatise.
i)
Certain keys are
available at different stages of development. The Jews worked with two
keys. Only three keys were available in the C19. We might surmise that
four keys are currently widely available: the Physiological, the Psychological,
the Astrological and Metaphysical. The fifth key is the Geometrical and
the implication is that this is the next key to become available.
ii)
All occult knowledge
may be subjected to the keys.
iii)
All occult knowledge
may be interpreted in three ways: exoterically, subjectively and spiritually.
iv)
There are three
locks to be opened. Are iii and iv the same, i.e. the three forms of interpretation
are the three locks?
126.
It seems likely that
the keys are very important esoteric information, since they provide means
for understanding occult knowledge. We can say a little about the four keys
currently available. Physiology has become much better understood in the
last few hundred years. The Psychological is now subject to much attention
and advances are in progress – much of the Tibetan’s work is esoteric psychology…astrology
… [vsk excised] . The Metaphysical might be thought to relate more to earlier
centuries, e.g. Hegel, Bergson and earlier hermeneutic studies. Thus one
could argue that much metaphysical debate really belongs to the era preceding
the C18, even though it lived on in a small way into the C20.
127.
But perhaps the most interesting
idea is the coming Geometrical key. One might speculate that the Tibetan’s
ideas about triangles, squares, circles, etc. are relevant here. Perhaps
the Geometric key is being led through occult literature. This is interesting
since other keys (e.g. the Astrological, Physiological and the Psychological)
seem to have passed through stages of largely worldly development. Or
was their development initiated via occult literature little available in
the western world?
128.
We might feel that
this is a crucial juncture in the study of the Treatise. We have reached:
the seven keys (listed as 10); the three locks; the seven turns (interpretations).
Qp.110: Consider the ten keys to the Secret
Doctrine listed in the footnote on p. 110. Give in a few words the
essential idea of each key. Which of these keys have you as an individual
begun to turn? How do you know you have? What have you learned in the turning?
What does it mean that each key has to be turned seven times?
[Page 110] We have considered
the reception and distribution of pranic emanations in man, the planet,
and the system, and have seen what produces temporary disorders, and
the devitalisation or the over-vitalisation of the organic form.
Now we can look at the subject from a third angle and therefore study:
c. Microcosmic static disorders, or a consideration
of the etheric body in connection with its work of providing a ring-pass-not
from the purely physical to the astral. As has been said, both here
and in the books of H. P. B., the ring-pass-not48a is that confining
barrier which acts as a separator or a division between a system and that
which is external to that system. This, as may well be seen, has its
interesting correlations when the subject is viewed (as we must consistently
endeavour to view it) from the point of view of a human being, a planet
and a system, remembering always that in dealing with the [Page 111] etheric
body we are dealing with physical matter. This must ever be borne
carefully in mind.
129.
DK reminds us again of the physical
nature of the etheric body.
Qp.108-110:
Consider the microcosmic organic disorders. How do they work out
in the life of man? To what extent do you believe that you as an individual
suffer from this microcosmic disorder?
FOOTNOTE 48a: "Ring-pass-not. The circumference
of the sphere of influence of any centre of positive life. This includes
the fire sphere of magnetic work of the solar orb, viewing
it as the body of manifestation of a solar Logos and inclusive of an entire
solar system. This term is also applied to the sphere of activity
of a planetary Logos or to a planetary scheme and could equally well be
applied to the sphere of activity of the human Ego."—S. D., I, 346.)
130.
A very interesting term is given
for the body of manifestation of the Solar Logos: “fire sphere is magnetic
work”. We see that this fire sphere is not simply the fiery sphere of the
Sun, but includes the entire solar system.
131.
The “centre of positive life” is
the monad in its physical manifestation. It is also known as the “central
nucleus”.
132.
The idea of the ring-pass-not seems
particularly related to that which is manifested physically. We
might also ask about the extension of other parts of the aura.
133.
A centre of positive life may be
influential beyond the sphere usually considered as a ring-pass-not. We
might consider such a sphere as the matter of all kinds magnetically gathered
to act as an instrument of expression for the positive life. The influence,
per se, may extend greatly beyond that material sphere (considering matter
to be of many possible grades).
Therefore, one paramount factor will be found in all
groups and formations, and this is the fact that the ring-pass-not
acts only as a hindrance to that which is of small attainment in evolution,
but forms no barrier to the more progressed.
134.
This is an extremely important point.
We realize (even on the relatively human level) that a Master can be influential
anywhere on the globe, regardless of the material He has gathered to be
immediately instrumental in His life expression.
135.
How does the implication of the
ring-pass-not relate to the causal body containing the energy of the permanent
atoms up to the 4th initiatiion? What is the mechanism which
contains the group, of whatever level? It seems the adept may pass through
the ring-pass-not of causal existence, individually, via the creation of
a mayavirupa, and in R&I it refers to a group having a 4th
degree as its nucleus. [see bottom pp. 223 and top of 224.] If this is
so, what would be the analogy to group formations? What is it that ensouls,
or contains, groups, but not a type of ring-pass-not?
136.
The ring-pass-not counteracts the
tendency towards dispersion, and thus creates a focus which leads to development.
This is one of its primary functions. There is also a protective function.
137.
Microcosmic static disorders – This is a small section dealing with the idea
of the ring-pass-not. Overtly, it is saying that the ring-pass-not (of the
etheric to the dense physical or the etheric to the astral) is a barrier
but that this barrier can be superseded. The ring-pass-not idea is explained
in a Note. It means the focus of some life and implies the concept of barrier
to external forms of life. The barrier depends upon the individual and group
karma of mankind, and that of the logoic – planetary and solar -- plus the
extent of soul development. Thus when karmic adjustment has taken place
to a sufficient degree and when soul consciousness is well established,
the ring-pass-not of the etheric body ceases to be a barrier.
138.
The implications regarding microcosmic static disorders aren’t worked out here.
However, elsewhere He does consider the issue of a weak etheric barrier
to external entities and this leads to certain problems.
There are other problems too, e.g. etheric contamination
(TWM p 372).
Qp.
101-111: Which of the three types of microcosmic disorders do you consider
the most serious and why?
The whole question depends upon two things, which
are the karma of the man, the planetary
Logos, and the solar Logos, and the dominance
of the spiritual indwelling entity over its vehicle.
139.
The ring-pass-not (considered as
a hindrance) is a karmic factor, and Saturn (‘Lord of Containment’) is the
greatest of the planetary Lords of Karma.
140.
Karma works often through the prevention
of expansion until the necessary patterns are built and harmonized (with
each other and with the environment).
141.
When the “spiritual indwelling entity”
achieves dominance over its vehicle, the influence of the nucleus (the indwelling
entity) easily extends beyond the usual boundaries created by the physical
vehicle and the etheric web (considered as a barrier to contact with more
subjective planes).
142.
The way through the ring-pass-not
is the cultivation and empowerment of the central nucleus.
Qp.110:
In your own words and in practical terms what is the definition of a "ring
pass not"? Does this term mean anything to you experientially?
End section 1, semester
11 reading; 21 August 2005; TCF pages 104-111