Rumi
“The moment you accept the challenges in your life that have been given to you, the door will open.”Rumi (1207-1273)
Dark Night of the Soul
In mystical literature, one will repeatedly encounter the term “The Dark Night of the Soul.” The Spanish mystic John of the Cross (16th century) used this title for a poem in which he describes the purifying experience—one that profoundly shakes both body and soul—which the disciple sooner or later undergoes on the path of following … [Read more…]
The Law of Cause and Effect
“Every effect is based on a cause; every cause produces an effect. When we speak of ‘chance,’ it simply means that we have not yet recognized the cause (the underlying law). There are many levels of causation—physical, psychological, and spiritual. The same law governs them all.” This is the 6th Hermetic Law of “Hermes Trismegistus,” … [Read more…]
On Freedom
A few thoughts from Jakob Böhme on freedom: The idea of freedom, which became central to classical German philosophy, finds its first justification in Jakob Böhme. “Since the Primordial Source or the Divine is unconditional, eternally free will and the origin of all things, human beings become all the more free the more they establish … [Read more…]
What do we mean by the “True Self”?
It is always enlightening and worthwhile to examine the terms frequently used in spiritual practice.It is surprising and astonishing what discoveries one makes in the process. At the same time, it also instills a sense of humility. One learns that on the path to mastering life, one will always remain a student. It does, after … [Read more…]
The Path of Return
There is perhaps no symbol—indeed, no archetype—more sacred to those studying a spiritual tradition than the “Tree of Life.” The “Tree of Life” is an “upside-down” tree. It literally stands “on its head.” That is to say, its roots are in heaven, the realm of the divine/eternal, and its branches, leaves, and fruits extend into … [Read more…]
The Mastery of Life
Many long-time students of AMORC may well have asked themselves, in quiet moments of solitude, just how far they have come in mastering their own lives… When one begins the Rosicrucian path, one often has a few “highlights” in mind regarding what one considers a “successful” life and in which areas one wishes to achieve … [Read more…]
Cro Ma’at
In the Rosicrucian tradition, the commitment to Ma’at (Cro Ma’at) is of great significance. What exactly lies behind the commitment to Ma‘at? It is said that the Rosicrucian is a walking question mark. Therefore, it is important for the student to explore this principle more closely. It is such a multifaceted principle that I can … [Read more…]
Intuition
The word “intuition” can be translated as “inner tuition,” or inner guidance. But who is it that “guides” us, that sets the direction? The goal of all true spiritual development is to show how important it is to establish contact with this inner voice within us — this inner guidance. It takes a great deal … [Read more…]
An Unexpected Kindness
I experienced something for the heart yesterday when I was shopping in a large bakery. A woman in front of me, who spoke English, had a large quantity of pre-packed Christmas cookies piled up at the checkout. I had also placed my small packet of coconut macaroons on the counter. When the woman saw this, … [Read more…]