MISCONCEPTIONS OF OCCULTISM
The term "occult" has long been shrouded in mystery and misunderstanding. In the minds of the uninformed, it is often synonymous with dark magic, veiled in sinister rituals, and associated with the evocation or invocation of supernatural forces. Even today, despite the advances in education, many misconceptions persist. To comprehend its essence, we must first disentangle it from these misconceptions.
The word "occult" derives from the Latin term meaning hidden or secret. Contrary to popular misconception, an occultist is, in essence, simply a person who pursues an understanding of the hidden aspects of the natural world. It must be understood that although the underpinnings of nature are often occluded from our comprehension, they are not deliberately concealed but mostly go unnoticed.
One might object to this, pointing out that in secretive initiations in occultism, new learnings are imparted to the initiate. However, the knowledge conveyed during these initiations is not withheld arbitrarily; it is only accessible to those who have evolved to a level of being where they can comprehend it. It is akin to teaching advanced mathematics to a child who has yet to grasp basic arithmetic. Advanced mathematics is not hidden from the child; he or she lacks the foundation to understand and use it.
Concerning the practices of the conjurer and the dabbler in magick, all that can be said is that they deal in the filth and debauchery of the lower levels of the astral light, and their practices have nothing to do with the real occult, but instead with illusion, invention, and degeneration. As Eminent Way men and ladies, we do not deal in these realms.
SEEING BEYOND LIMITATIONS
To the student of the Eminent Way, occultism offers a broader perspective on the world than conventional science alone. It acknowledges the existence of higher realms and forces that elude the materialist. By understanding these unseen aspects, occultists base their lives on a more comprehensive understanding of the laws of the universe. By gaining a working knowledge of the Unseen Worlds and the forces underpinning natural phenomena, we embrace a more comprehensive reality, rich with beauty and full of life.
Now, the question must be asked, "If the Unseen Worlds are not deliberately concealed, what prevents most from perceiving them?" In response, I would say that it is because humans are still in the process of evolving and generally have not developed the faculties necessary to perceive the higher levels of the Astral Light.
To grasp the limitations of our current consciousness, imagine a form of awareness restricted to perceiving only black, white, and shades of grey. Such a consciousness would not perceive the array of colors surrounding us, and, indeed, we might never suspect the possibility of doing so. Such a consciousness would be blind to the existence of color, just as we often remain oblivious to the Unseen Worlds that interpenetrate our physical reality.
Our present state of consciousness is similarly limited compared to what humanity might achieve in the distant future. In fact, there is much historical evidence to indicate that humans, only a few thousand years ago, could not see the entire visible spectrum of colors we perceive today. Apparently, most ancient humans could not see the colors blue or violet - but undoubtedly, some could. Imagine being the person who could see blue in a culture that could not, and you'll get some sense of what it's like to perceive the Unseen Worlds in a culture that (mostly) cannot.
Eminent Way students recognize that there is a hidden side to everything. From art to nature, we delve into the unseen and enhance our perception of the world, unlocking a deeper layer of reality. Our senses are evolving as a species, and we can expedite this process through diligent effort. Those who succeed may be termed clairvoyant or psychic, although these terms have been misused and stigmatized.
While some so-called clairvoyants misuse their faculties for deceptive purposes, there is a genuine and rational basis for these authentic phenomena. Its validity stems from years of study and experimentation. Those who develop these abilities can see and sense more of the world's wonders, far beyond the average person's perception. By shedding the blinders of ignorance, we can discover a world of incredible beauty and wonder. This knowledge transforms our understanding of life, provides insights into questions like, "What comes after death?" and dispels our fear of the unknown.
The Eminent Way explores the unseen effects of energy and subtle vibrations. By understanding this hidden aspect of life, we use our knowledge as a powerful tool for good, enhancing our own lives and refining the world around us. It offers valuable insights into our daily lives.
New abilities begin to manifest through the earnest development of one's faculties. From telepathy and clairvoyance to the ability to see and sense the electrics of an ecology and the perception of the antiquities (called reading the Akashic records) of a place, Eminent Way studies enhance our comprehension of the world. Moreover, we can live with more wisdom and purpose by studying the unseen.
EVOLVING WITH KNOWLEDGE
To make the most of this knowledge, we must align ourselves with the march of evolution. As we gain a deeper understanding of the hidden side of existence, we must strive to embody the glorious trinity of knowledge, wisdom, and love in our lives.
In the following lessons on the occult, we will explore the unseen dimensions of everyday life. This insight will provide a more profound understanding of the positive, negative, and neutralizing forces at play. We will discover how we are affected, how we affect ourselves, and how we affect others.
As we uncover the mysteries of existence, we unlock the potential for profound personal change. A deeper appreciation of the hidden side of life promises to reshape our world in ways beyond our current comprehension.
Pierce!
October 17, 2023