The term “artificial” occupies a liminal space in human thought and culture, bridging innovation and imitation, progress and unease. While it often denotes something “man-made” or “not natural,” its roots evoke human ingenuity and craftsmanship. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and artificial hearts exemplifies the arc of technological advancement, but they also provoke deeper metaphysical and philosophical questions. What does it mean to create? What does it mean to replicate? And, where does the “artificial” end and the “authentic” begin? This essay explores the etymological origin of the term “artificial” and its implications in the realms of AI and artificial hearts, grappling with the broader questions it raises about identity, authenticity, and the boundaries of human potential.

The Etymology of “Artificial”

The word “artificial” stems from the Latin artificialis, a fusion of ars (“skill,” “craft”) and facere (“to make” or “to do”). Its original meaning, “made by skill,” reflected the human capacity to design and create with intent and precision. Unlike the natural, which arises spontaneously, the artificial embodies deliberate craftsmanship.

Over time, the term has acquired a dual connotation. On one hand, it celebrates innovation and mastery over the material world; on the other, it suggests something imitative, subordinate, or even inauthentic. For example, while an artifact may demonstrate incredible artisanal skill, phrases like “artificial flavoring” imply a lack of essence. This tension between ingenuity and a perceived disconnect from nature persists in contemporary discussions surrounding artificial intelligence and artificial organs. The deeper roots of this linguistic history reveal that artificial implies the human ability to form and transform the world.

Artificial Intelligence and the Challenge to Human Identity

The development of artificial intelligence epitomizes humanity’s ability to imbue machines with extraordinary capabilities. At its core, AI involves programming systems to simulate rational, problem-solving functions once thought to lie at the heart of human cognition. From chatbots to autonomous vehicles, AI has redefined efficiency and expanded the realm of what machines can accomplish. However, its rapid evolution challenges us to reconsider the nature of what makes us inherently human.

AI exposes the extent to which many human activities are mechanical in nature. Tasks that once required human reasoning, such as calculating probabilities or executing conversational exchanges, are now programmable. But does this mean machines “think” as humans do? Or is their reasoning merely an algorithmic replication of processes without subjective awareness?

This question points to an essential metaphysical distinction. Key aspects of humanity, like creativity, intuition, and self-awareness, resist easy translation into logic or code. Creativity for a human is not merely the synthesis of existing data but the capacity to generate meaning through personal experience and desire. Similarly, post-rational intuition goes beyond a mere “gut feeling” to reflect wisdom accrued through emotion and time.

Another divide lies in consciousness. AI mimics decision-making, yet it lacks the subjective sense of “self” that humans experience. This absence is critical; while an algorithm can “solve,” it does not feel or exist in a phenomenological sense. The human experience is colored by empathy, emotional depth, and an awareness of mortality that fundamentally shapes our decisions and interactions. Thus, AI forces humanity to confront the question of identity—not just what humans can create, but what creation reveals about our essential nature.

Artificial Hearts and Understanding the Human Heart

The artificial heart represents a triumph of medical innovation, offering life-saving solutions for those awaiting transplants. Mechanically speaking, these devices replicate the heart’s primary function—to circulate oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. However, like AI, the artificial heart raises profound metaphysical questions about the essence of the organ it mimics.

Biologically, the heart is more than a pump. Research from institutions like the HeartMath Institute reveals it as an intricate communicator, influencing the brain, endocrine system, and autonomic nervous system. The heart’s electromagnetic field extends beyond the body, interacting with surrounding environments, while its sensory neurons relay bidirectional signals with the brain. It is an organ steeped in complex systems not easily quantified.

Yet beyond its biological functions lies the heart’s symbolic significance. Across cultures, the heart is revered as the seat of emotion, love, and the soul itself. It establishes a metaphysical bridge, representing both biological life (the pulse) and intangible facets of human existence (courage, kindness, and intuition). An artificial heart, no matter how advanced, raises the question of whether it can replicate this profound interconnectedness. Does replacing a natural heart alter a person’s internal equilibrium in ways science cannot yet measure? If it does, does this suggest the human heart transcends its mechanical role?

The artificial heart exemplifies both the promise and the limits of technological replication. It improves life expectancy but also reframes the heart itself as a collection of functions rather than an indivisible synergy of biology and metaphor.

Artificial as Humanity’s Reflection

The concept of “artificial” confronts humanity with its own duality. On the one hand, it reveals our capacity for creation, for reshaping and extending natural processes. On the other, it compels us to reflect on the essence of what we replicate. What is “authentic” if the “artificial” fulfills its function? And what is the cost, if any, of this substitution?

Artificial intelligence and artificial hearts mirror broader philosophical tensions. They reveal the mechanisms underlying tasks that define human life while challenging us to articulate intangible aspects of existence that defy replication. The artificial does not stand outside of nature; it inhabits and transforms it. Its greatest gift may lie in reminding us to ask not just what we create but why.

As such, “artificial” becomes a lens, sharpening our focus on the boundaries of skill and soul, science and spirit. Through the artificial, humanity confronts itself—not just as creators of systems and objects but as beings defined by deeper truths we continually seek to understand and preserve.

The essay distinguishes between flawed ethical reasoning, which stems from cognitive shortcomings, and a flawed moral compass, which involves a willful disregard for ethical principles. It explores how false equivalences—rooted in superficial similarities, ignored context, and logical fallacies—undermine ethical judgment. Finally, it highlights the critical thinking skills missing in flawed ethical reasoning, such as nuanced thinking, empathy, and logical clarity, emphasizing the need to develop these tools for sound moral decision-making.

Flawed Ethical Reasoning

Ethical judgment is a core element of human decision-making, shaping the way individuals evaluate what is right or wrong, just or unjust. However, the integrity of such judgments can hinge on two distinct but often conflated phenomena—flawed ethical reasoning and a flawed moral compass. While these concepts may appear similar on the surface, they are fundamentally different in nature and implications. A flawed moral compass reflects a willful disregard for truth or ethical principles, often arising from apathy, moral corruption, or deliberate self-interest. On the other hand, flawed ethical reasoning stems from cognitive shortcomings, where the individual’s ability to analyze and reason ethically is impaired, despite an otherwise intact commitment to moral principles. This post seeks to explore the concept of flawed ethical reasoning, beginning with how it diverges from a flawed moral compass and culminating in an analysis of its root causes, including false equivalence and deficiencies in critical thinking skills.

Flawed Ethical Reasoning vs. a Flawed Moral Compass

To understand the distinction between flawed ethical reasoning and a flawed moral compass, one must consider intent and intellectual capacity. A flawed moral compass pertains to the willingness to act against recognized ethical standards. It implies a deliberate decision to prioritize personal gain, tribal loyalty, or ideological allegiance over an adherence to truth and moral responsibility. For example, a leader may knowingly spread misinformation to preserve political power, exhibiting an intentional breach of ethical integrity.

Conversely, flawed ethical reasoning does not necessitate a lack of moral intent. Instead, it signals an inability to critically evaluate a situation and arrive at sound ethical conclusions, despite a genuine desire to act morally. This impairment often originates from errors in logical processing, a limited grasp of complexity, or an overreliance on flawed analogies and biases. An individual with flawed ethical reasoning may, for instance, equate two morally distinct actions based on superficial similarities, failing to account for intent or context. While the moral compass remains oriented toward an ethical pole, the reasoning process steering decisions is fundamentally misaligned.

The distinction between these two phenomena underscores a pivotal consideration in moral philosophy and psychology. Ethical errors stemming from a flawed moral compass are matters of intent, requiring interventions that address character and accountability. By contrast, flawed ethical reasoning necessitates cognitive tools and critical thinking strategies to improve judgment. A key factor in flawed ethical reasoning is the inability to discern and avoid false equivalences, which leads to compromised ethical assessments.

Elements of a False Equivalence

False equivalence is a logical fallacy where two items, events, or ideas are incorrectly presented as equal or comparable in ethical weight. While such comparisons may initially seem compelling, they often collapse under closer scrutiny due to the following elements:

1. Superficial Similarities

False equivalences rest on identifying surface-level or incidental traits shared by two subjects, which mask significant differences. For instance, equating peaceful protests with violent rioting because both occur in public spaces ignores profound distinctions in intent, consequences, and legality. The reliance on such shallow parallels misguides ethical reasoning.

2. Ignoring Context

A critical flaw in false equivalences lies in their dismissal of broader contextual factors, such as scale, power dynamics, or historical background. By stripping comparisons of situational nuance, they create an illusion of parity. An example would be likening minor tax evasion by individuals to widespread corporate tax fraud; while both involve violations, the scale and systemic implications differ drastically.

3. False Balance

False equivalences frequently involve presenting two sides of an issue as morally or factually equal, even when one side is demonstrably less justified. This approach creates a misleading sense of fairness but distorts the ethical landscape. For instance, equating climate science consensus with the opinions of a small group of skeptics misrepresents the weight of evidence, undermining informed ethical analysis.

4. Logical Fallacies

False equivalences rely on flawed reasoning, such as oversimplification or cherry-picking data to make unequal comparisons appear plausible. This intellectual shortcut distorts reality, obstructing critical evaluation of ethical dilemmas.

5. Exploitation of Emotional Appeal

False equivalences often employ emotional triggers to bolster weak comparisons. This tactic diverts attention from logical inconsistencies, appealing to gut reactions rather than reasoned ethical deliberation.

These elements reveal how false equivalences undermine sound ethical reasoning. The inability to recognize these fallacies points to deficiencies in critical thinking skills, which form the backbone of ethical decision-making.

Critical Thinking Skills Missing in Flawed Ethical Reasoning

Flawed ethical reasoning arises not solely from a failure to act ethically but from deficits in the intellectual tools required to assess complex moral situations. Below are the key critical thinking assets often lacking in cases of flawed ethical reasoning:

1. Nuanced Thinking

Ethical dilemmas are rarely black and white. Individuals with flawed ethical reasoning struggle to grapple with complexity and subtleties, leading them to adopt overly simplistic views. For instance, condemning all breaches of rules equally—whether jaywalking or systemic corruption—reflects an inability to weigh degrees of harm or intent appropriately.

2. Contextual Awareness

Ethical reasoning requires attentiveness to context. Situations that appear similar on the surface may diverge drastically when viewed through the lens of historical, cultural, or situational factors. A lack of contextual awareness often leads to skewed moral judgments.

3. Logical Reasoning

Sound ethical reasoning demands the identification and avoidance of logical fallacies, including false equivalences. An absence of strong reasoning skills invites errors such as oversimplification or faulty analogies, which distort ethical assessments.

4. Empathy and Perspective-Taking

Ethical reasoning requires the capacity to view situations from multiple perspectives, particularly those of individuals directly affected. A deficit in empathy can result in moral judgments that lack consideration for the lived realities or harms experienced by others.

5. Ethical Frameworks

A well-developed moral framework provides a guide for ethical decision-making. Individuals with flawed ethical reasoning may lack the philosophical grounding necessary to evaluate actions based on principles such as utilitarianism, deontology, or virtue ethics. Such frameworks provide clarity in distinguishing between right and wrong.

6. Cognitive Bias Awareness

Flawed ethical reasoning is often exacerbated by unaddressed cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias, which skews judgments toward pre-existing beliefs. Recognizing and mitigating these biases is essential for clear and impartial ethical evaluation.

Conclusion

Flawed ethical reasoning and a flawed moral compass are conceptually distinct, though both result in compromised moral judgments. While the latter embodies a willful neglect of ethical principles, the former stems from deficits in cognitive and critical thinking skills. False equivalence exemplifies these deficits by distorting ethical comparisons with flawed logic, superficial similarities, and emotional appeals. Remedying flawed ethical reasoning calls for the cultivation of nuanced thinking, contextual awareness, empathy, and logical clarity. Through the enhancement of these intellectual tools, individuals can align their ethical reasoning with their moral intent, paving the way for more just and informed decision-making.

Catalonian mystic and occultist Vicente Beltrán-Anglada (1915–1988) was an accepted disciple in a Second Ray Ashram of the planetary spiritual Hierarchy. The Mysteries of Shamballa is one in a series of books that his spiritual Master commissioned him to write on the subject of The Threefold Hierarchical Project for the current era. This is the first authorized English translation of the original book, which was published in Spanish in 1985.

The subject of Shamballa has been presented in literature under various names, including Agharta, Shangri-La, Avalon, the City of the Seven Gates, and the Abode of the Holy Grail. This book reveals its veiled spiritual significance, inviting readers to look beyond their current perceptions and engage deeply with the “lesser Mysteries” of SHAMBALLA as a prelude to the revelation of the “greater Mysteries,” which remain concealed, accessible only through continued spiritual evolution and initiation. It is written for spiritual aspirants yearning for deeper knowledge—those who tread the rugged path of discipleship and are beginning to develop intuition as their guide. The book is intended for those ready to engage with esoteric ideas through an open mind and soul, rather than for intellectuals inclined toward reductionist analysis or those driven by mere curiosity.

The book concludes with a call for constant growth. It reminds seekers that while written ideas may fade with time, the spiritual insights they inspire retain the eternal freshness of the divine. The path toward the “HOUSE OF THE FATHER” is one of unending progress, where Truth, Love, and divine Peace eternally await those who strive for transcendent understanding.

At its heart, The Centennial Conclave: SHAMBALLA 2025 is more than a book; it’s a call to action for those who sense a deeper purpose in our shared existence. Through a compelling blend of historical insight, philosophical inquiry, and spiritual revelation, it unravels the mysteries of Shamballa, the Hierarchy of Masters, and the spiritual forces that guide humanity’s evolution. It examines the pivotal moments of our shared history and looks forward to the extraordinary planetary event of 2025 — an event heralding the next stage in humanity’s spiritual and material progression.
–https://hierarchicaldemocracy.blog/2025/02/09/the-rise-of-authoritarianism/#Shamballa-JB

The Kumbh Mela, a gathering of extraordinary spiritual significance, is a tradition that transcends time, culture, and geography. Among its iterations, the Allahabad Kumbh Mela—held at the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers—stands as a beacon of metaphysical reflection and collective renewal. This gathering has evolved over centuries, representing the cyclicality of celestial alignments and their reflection in the material world. Within this grand tradition, two cycles emerge prominently: the Maha Kumbh Mela, a 144-year cycle, and the Purna Kumbh Mela, observed every 12 years. Together, they form a rhythm of spiritual aspiration and human interconnectedness, revealing profound truths about our collective existence.

The Maha Kumbh Mela

The Maha Kumbh Mela is the rarest and most revered of these gatherings. Occurring once every 144 years, this festival only takes place after the completion of 12 Purna Kumbh Melas. It is a cosmic milestone where earthly devotion meets universal order. The most recent Maha Kumbh Mela was celebrated in 2013, gathering millions in Allahabad (Prayagraj) to bathe in the Triveni Sangam’s sacred waters. It was a culmination of the preceding cycle that began in 1869, the year of the prior Maha Kumbh Mela. These events are not just festivals—they are eras, encapsulating humanity’s continuous pursuit of spiritual clarity and redemption over generations.

The gatherings are tethered to alignment, both in the heavens and within the hearts of its pilgrims. Ritual bathing in the rivers symbolizes the cleansing of karmic impurities, while the atmosphere itself, charged with ancient recitations and meditative silence, becomes a sanctuary of spiritual hope. The Maha Kumbh Mela serves as a reminder of humanity’s enduring bond with the divine, bridging the eternal and the ephemeral.

The Purna Kumbh Mela and the 1918 Gathering

Complementing the grandeur of the Maha Kumbh Mela is the Purna Kumbh Mela, a “complete” Kumbh, celebrated every 12 years. It marks significant astronomical alignments and provides intervals of renewal within the larger 144-year cycle. One such gathering, the 1918 Purna Kumbh Mela, holds special historical and spiritual weight. It was the fourth in the cycle leading to the 2013 Maha Kumbh Mela, operating as a cosmic hinge where temporal and transcendent realities converged.

The 1918 Purna Kumbh Mela endures in human memory not only for its scale but for an event unprecedented in its significance. It is said that Lord Maitreya, the Head of the planetary spiritual Hierarchy, made a profound pronouncement, recorded later in Helena Roerich’s “Illumination.” This message embodied the symbolic essence of renewal, declaring humanity’s path forward as one shaped by “human feet” and “human hands.” The imagery of squares and stars traced upon the sand painted a vision of unity and transition, guiding humanity toward the construction of a metaphorical temple—an edifice born of goodwill, cooperation, and collective striving toward higher ideals.

Maitreya’s message resonated not only with the time’s spiritual aspirations but also presaged the challenges of modernity—where moral desecration, as observed by the Hierarchy, threatened to erode humanity’s potential. His words spoke of a path forward where human agency, guided by higher values, could illuminate the way forward through compassion, care, and conscious creation.

Toward the 2025 Purna Kumbh Mela

The 2025 Purna Kumbh Mela holds special significance as the ninth in the cycle beginning with the 1918 gathering. Numerologically, the number nine represents completion, signaling not closure but transformation. Additionally, 2025 coincides with the Conclave of the planetary spiritual Hierarchy at Shamballa, which occurs every quarter-century. These convergences offer fertile ground for reflection, prompting us to envision what message Lord Maitreya might offer in light of today’s challenges.

The world of 2025 is burdened by crises yet aflame with possibilities. Climate change threatens the delicate balance of our planet, while authoritarianism and divisive ideologies undermine the pursuit of human rights and solidarity. The specter of nuclear conflict casts a shadow over peace, as does the persistent inequality that marginalizes millions. Amid these trials, however, is an undeniable yearning for reconciliation and cooperation.

A potential pronouncement from Maitreya in 2025 might echo the themes of the 1918 message yet be charged with urgent clarity. He may call upon humanity to harness their “human hands” and “human feet” not only to build literal or metaphorical temples but to transform the world itself into a sanctuary of harmony. This vision might center on establishing right human relations and fostering goodwill as fundamental to solving the crises we face. Maitreya’s words could stress the critical role of youth, innovation, and spiritual resilience as we seek to address the existential challenges of our time.

Perhaps he may speak of an emerging responsibility—not just spiritual or individual, but collective—to honor the interconnectivity of all life. He could envision a humanity awakened to the profound truth that peace begins not in treaties or policies alone but in the kindness of daily actions and the courage to prioritize common good over individual gain.

One imagines his pronouncement flowing like a river, nourishing the arid lands of human strife. Much like his vision of the Temple in 1918, his 2025 message may outline not a specific roadmap but a mindset, urging humanity to focus on trust, equality, and the sanctity of life itself. It could be a call to bring forth the “Aum” he described, an energy of unity coursing into every corner of human consciousness.

A Timeless Continuum

The Allahabad Kumbh Mela is a testament to humanity’s quest for truth, seeking eternal meaning in a world prone to change. Through the Maha Kumbh Mela and its intervening Purna Kumbh Melas, this festival reaches across the temporal and universal, binding individuals with the cosmos and with one another. It is as much about the waters of the Sangam as it is about the waters of the soul.

The pronouncements of the past, such as those in 1918, and the new ones for 2025 remind us that these gatherings are more than festivals—they are dialogues between humanity and the universe, challenging us to reflect, realign, and rise. With every cycle, the Kumbh Mela invites us to wash away not just impurities but doubts, fears, and divisions, leaving behind a world remade in the light of compassion, wisdom, and hope.

THE TEACHINGS OF THE CHRIST

• The Establishing of Right Human Relations
• The Law of Rebirth
• Revelation of the Mystery of Initiation
• The Dispelling of Glamour

Source: The Reappearance of the Christ by Alice A. Bailey (1948)

Post Scriptum: Astronomical Alignments

The Allahabad Kumbh Mela is not merely a spiritual gathering tied to tradition; its timing is deeply rooted in celestial precision. The festival’s observance is guided by significant astronomical alignments that serve as a cosmic backdrop to its rituals and symbolic meanings. It is held when Jupiter transitions into (sideral) Taurus, and the Sun and Moon align in (sideral) Capricorn during the sacred month of Magha (January-February). These alignments carry archetypal significance that resonates profoundly with the themes of spirituality, transformation, and renewal.

Jupiter’s Spiritual Significance

Jupiter, known as the “Guru” or teacher in Vedic astrology, is the celestial emblem of higher knowledge, spiritual wisdom, and divine blessings. This expansive and benevolent planet illuminates the path of growth—both material and spiritual. During the Kumbh Mela, Jupiter’s presence in Taurus amplifies this wisdom, anchoring high ideals into the physical realm. Jupiter serves as the guiding force, offering spiritual insight while nurturing the aspiration for harmony between the material and the divine.

Taurus and the Materialization of Spiritual Ideals

Taurus, an Earth sign, symbolizes stability, abundance, and the grounding of lofty ideals into tangible reality. It emphasizes the integration of spiritual practices into daily life, ensuring they are not abstract aspirations but deeply rooted, meaningful experiences. The festival’s focus on sacred bathing and collective rituals during this alignment reflects Taurus’s role in materializing profound spiritual connections within the physical realm.

Taurus’s complementary relationship with Scorpio—the zodiacal opposite and a Water sign—further enriches this dynamic. While Taurus steadies and grounds, Scorpio focuses on purification and transformation, often symbolized as a baptism by fire. Together, they represent a cycle where spiritual ideals are made manifest and then refined, purifying the soul for deeper connection with the divine.

Sun and Moon in Capricorn

The alignment of the Sun and Moon in Capricorn during the festival is equally crucial. Capricorn, an Earth sign associated with discipline, responsibility, and achievement, echoes the collective focus of the Kumbh Mela on unity and practical spiritual striving. A New Moon in Capricorn marks a beginning—a preparatory period before the Full Moon shifts into Aquarius, the sign of the water bearer. Aquarius is known for its service to humanity and sharing the “spiritual waters of life” that quench the thirst of a parched world. This transition from Capricorn to Aquarius underscores the process of preparation and service, guiding pilgrims from introspection to action.

The Capricorn Full Moon introduces the complementary alignment with Cancer, a Water sign associated with nurturing, protection, and birthing. The symbolic bathing in the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers becomes more than a ritual; it transforms into an archetype of rebirth and renewal—a baptism by water through which spiritual purification unfolds. The interaction of Earth and Water elements encapsulates the dual rites of grounding (Capricorn/Taurus) and cleansing (Cancer/Scorpio), unifying material stability with spiritual transcendence.

The Archetypal Tapestry

These astronomical alignments knit together a rich archetypal tapestry, aligning the human quest for truth with the eternal rhythms of the universe. The meeting of Jupiter in Taurus, the Sun and Moon in Capricorn, and the cycles of Earth and Water elements evoke a profound message. They teach us that spirituality is not divorced from everyday life but is rather a transformation that occurs within it. Stability lays the foundation; purification clears the path; and the celestial currents lead humanity to higher consciousness.

The Allahabad Kumbh Mela, synchronized with these stellar patterns, becomes not just an observance but an embodiment of cosmic wisdom. It invites us to align our earthly deeds with heavenly order, bridging the finite and the infinite in our collective pursuit of enlightenment.

The Star of Allahabad showed Us the way, so We visited Sarnath and Gaya. Everywhere We found the desecration of religion. On the way back, under the full moon,* Christ spoke those memorable words.

During the night journey, the guide had lost the way. I found Christ seated upon a mound of sand. He was looking on as the moonlight poured onto the sands. “We have lost the way,” I told Him. “We have to wait and find out the positions of the stars.”

“Rasul Morya, why should We bother about the way, when the entire world is waiting for Us?” Then, taking His bamboo staff He traced a square around His footprint and said, “Truly, by human feet.” And having made an impression with His palm, He enclosed it in a square. “Truly, by human hands.”

Between the squares He drew what looked like a pillar crowned with an arc. He said: “Oh, how Aum will penetrate the human consciousness! Here I have drawn a pistil with an arc above it, and have laid the foundation in four directions. When the Temple is built by human feet and human hands—the Temple where the pistil placed by Me will blossom—then may the builders walk My path. Why wait for a path, when the path is before Us?” And standing up, He erased with His staff everything that He had drawn.

“When the Name of the Temple is uttered, this image shall appear. As a reminder of My constellation, a square and nine stars shall shine above the Temple. The sign of the foot and the hand shall be inscribed on the cornerstone.” That is what He Himself said on the eve of the new moon.** The heat of the desert was great.

The Star of the Morning is a sign of the Great Epoch, the first ray of which will flash forth from the Teaching of Christ; for who is to glorify the Mother of the World if not Christ, He who was belittled by the world?

Give Us the arch of the Vault through which to enter!

Leaves of Morya’s Garden II, 153 (Illumination 1925)

• * Ed. N.: On the way back [from the Allahabad Kumbh Mela at the Capricorn Full Moon].
• **on the eve of the [next] new moon [in Aquarius].

KEYNOTES FOR THE DISCIPLE

These keynotes for the disciple may be used in sequence as the seed thought for the meditation work done each month at the time of the full moon.

Source: Lucis Trust

Acknowledgment: adapted and expanded from a presentation by Dr. Luis A. Hernández-Ríos at InternetArcano.org .

Love, perhaps the most profound and enigmatic experience in human existence, has captivated thinkers, poets, and philosophers for centuries. It defies easy categorization, evolving across different contexts and relationships. To truly understand love, we must explore its distinctions from transactional relationships and survival-based bonds, its deeply personal and emotional dimensions, and its impersonal, universal forms. Love is not a single, finite concept but a spectrum of connections that expands beyond the boundaries of self-interest or even individual emotion.

Love vs. Transactional Relationships and Co-Dependence

At its core, love transcends transactions and survival-driven interactions. A transactional relationship is an exchange between parties driven by self-interest. The focus lies on individual benefit, where each person seeks to satisfy their own needs, whether through goods, services, or social gain. For instance, a business deal or a professional acquaintance built on convenience lacks the depth of connection found in love. While such relationships have their place, they are ultimately limited by their conditional and utilitarian nature.

On the other hand, co-dependence takes a step further into interdependence but remains rooted in necessity and survival. Here, two individuals rely on each other to meet emotional or practical needs, often to an unhealthy extent. Co-dependence mirrors symbiosis in nature, such as the mutually beneficial relationship between bees and flowers or clownfish and sea anemones. Each party offers something the other lacks, creating a bond of necessity rather than choice. While co-dependence can provide stability, it is distinct from love in its lack of autonomy and self-sufficiency.

Love stands apart from both transactional relationships and co-dependence because it is neither conditional nor purely survival-driven. True love fosters freedom, growth, and a depth of connection that goes beyond reciprocity or necessity. It is not about what is exchanged or required but about genuine care and regard for another’s well-being.

Personal (Emotional) Love

The most commonly recognized form of love is deeply personal and emotional. This is the love we feel for a partner, child, family member, or close friend. It is characterized by intimacy, vulnerability, and a profound emotional connection. Unlike transactional relationships, personal love is not rooted in self-interest; instead, it involves a willingness to prioritize another person’s happiness, often at the expense of one’s own.

Psychologically, love in its personal form fulfills vital human needs. It provides emotional security, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. It strengthens bonds of trust, intimacy, and belonging, offering stability even in life’s chaos. Love motivates personal growth, not just for oneself but for the betterment of the relationship. For example, parents often make sacrifices to give their children opportunities they never had, driven by an innate sense of care and investment in their well-being.

At its best, love is a partnership that enriches both individuals while safeguarding their autonomy. When love truly flourishes, it transcends fleeting emotions like infatuation or desire and becomes an enduring commitment that weathers time and challenges. Its emotional depth is unparalleled, drawing people closer together in relationships that feel irreplaceable, offering us meaning and purpose in our shared experiences.

Impersonal Love

While personal love touches the heart, there exists another form of love that is less about emotional intimacy and more about universal care and commitment. Impersonal love, though often overlooked, is equally significant as it broadens the concept of love to include what lies beyond individual relationships.

One example is agape love, often described as unconditional love for humanity. This universal form of love extends to all beings without bias or attachment. It is not concerned with personal gain or emotional reciprocity, but instead with goodwill, compassion, and altruism. Agape love fuels acts of charity, mentorship, and kindness towards strangers, driven by a commitment to improve the world rather than personal ties.

Similarly, philosophical or spiritual love transcends individuality, focusing on love as a guiding principle or force within the universe. Many view love as a connection to a higher power, an understanding of interconnectedness, or even the fabric of existence itself. For instance, spiritual traditions often emphasize cultivating love for all creation as a pathway to achieving inner peace or enlightenment.

Lastly, professional care exemplifies another form of impersonal love. Professions such as nursing, teaching, and social work demonstrate a commitment to service that is grounded in love—not a personal affection for each individual but a deep sense of ethical duty and compassion. This love is expressed through actions, patience, and dedication, even when personal attachment is absent.

Impersonal love shows us that love need not always involve emotion or intimacy to be genuine. It embodies care, respect, and a commitment to support and better others, whether they are individuals or the collective whole.

Love as a Spectrum of Connection

Through the different stages of relationships—transactional, co-dependent, emotional, and impersonal—we see that love cannot be confined to one single definition. It stretches from the deeply personal to the universal, from emotion-driven to principle-driven, and from intimate bonds to acts of altruism. What unites these variations is the essential quality of care, the willingness to enhance another’s life, and the rejection of purely self-centered motivations.

Love, in all its forms, offers meaning and richness to human experience. It reminds us that we are not isolated beings but interconnected, whether through emotional ties or through a universal sense of shared responsibility. Love, ultimately, is the bridge that connects us—to each other, to ourselves, and to something greater than both.

Notes from the Ageless Wisdom

Each divine aspect has three subsidiary aspects, and in our planet and on the cosmic physical plane the lowest aspect of love (that which we call the Will-to-Good) is revealed. For humanity, struggling upon this cosmic physical plane, we subdivide unconsciously this will-to-good into three aspects; these we are only today beginning to grasp as existent possibilities. The lowest aspect we call goodwill. little realising the attitude to the universal goal which it sets; the second aspect we vaguely call love and hope to demonstrate that we do demonstrate love through our affiliation with the Hierarchy; the highest we call the will-to-good and leave it undefined because it is in no way possible, even for initiates of the fifth initiation, truly to comprehend what is the nature and purpose of the will-to-good which conditions divine activity.
-The Tibetan Master in The Rays and the Initiations (p. 536) published by the Lucis Trust

The quote highlights a form of love that is both impersonal and deeply compassionate, resonating with the essay’s exploration of a layered and expansive nature of love as a universal, transcendent force. This interpretation acknowledges the capacity for profound love that is not bound by personal attachments but is instead rooted in a broader, spiritual understanding of interconnectedness and compassion.

1. Three Aspects of Love: The quote outlines three aspects of love—goodwill, love, and the will-to-good. These can be seen as different expressions or stages of love, similar to how the essay describes love’s spectrum from personal to impersonal.
2. Goodwill as the Lowest Aspect: Goodwill, the most accessible form, aligns with the concept of impersonal love discussed in the essay. It represents a basic, universal kindness and altruism that doesn’t require personal emotional connection but still embodies care and positive intention.
3. Love as a Middle Aspect: The second aspect, referred to as love, would correspond in its lower octaves to the personal, emotional love explored in the essay. This is the love that involves deeper emotional connections and affiliations, such as those found in personal relationships and community bonds. However, the second aspect can also be understood in its higher octaves as a bridge between personal emotional connections and a more impersonal, universal compassion, as suggested by the Ageless Wisdom. This form of love transcends personal attachments, embodying a universal, compassionate regard akin to the love demonstrated by spiritual figures like the Buddha. It represents a state where love is both deeply felt and universally applied, integrating personal emotional depth with a broader, unconditional compassion that aligns with spiritual principles and the values of the planetary spiritual Hierarchy of Masters of Wisdom and Compassion.
4. Will-to-Good as the Highest Aspect: The will-to-good, which remains largely undefined and incomprehensible, suggests a more profound, perhaps spiritual or philosophical form of “Cosmic Love.” This aligns with the essay’s discussion of philosophical or spiritual love, where love is seen as a guiding principle or universal force beyond individual understanding.
5. Recognizing and embodying the divine essence within all, including humanity, through the “Practice of the Presence.” This practice involves spiritual identification with the oneness of all existence, achieving a state of “at-one-ment” (unification), where the individual realizes their unity with the cosmos. The will-to-good is not just an abstract concept but a lived experience of unification, after cleavages are bridged, crises are overcome, and fusions occur as stages in the spiritual journey. This journey leads to the realization that we are all interconnected. It is a love that is not limited by personal or emotional boundaries but is expansive, encompassing all of creation in a unified field of consciousness.
6. Humanity’s Struggle and Potential: The quote highlights humanity’s ongoing struggle to grasp these aspects of love, reflecting the essay’s theme of love as a journey and a spectrum. It suggests that while we may start with goodwill, there is potential to evolve towards a deeper understanding and embodiment of love and the will-to-good.

In essence, both the quote and the essay emphasize love’s multifaceted nature, ranging from basic goodwill to profound, universal principles. They invite us to explore and expand our understanding of love beyond personal emotions to include broader, more abstract expressions of care and connection.

To esotericists, this whole problem of the at-one-ment is closely connected with the building of the antaskarana. This name is given to the line of living energy which links the various human aspects and the soul, and it holds the clue to the occult truism that “before a man can tread the Path, he must become the path itself.” When the cleavages are all bridged, the various points of crisis have been surmounted and passed, and the required fusions (which are simply stages in process) have taken place, then unification or atone-ment occurs. New fields of energy then are entered, [Page 448] recognised and mastered, and then again new areas of consciousness open up before the advancing pilgrim.
-The Tibetan Master in Esoteric Psychology, Vol II, published by the Lucis Trust.

KEYNOTE: “LOST AM I IN LIGHT SUPERNAL, YET ON THAT LIGHT I TURN MY BACK.”

Capricorn guards the secret of the soul, the secret of the hidden glory, revealed to the disciple at the climax of the third initiation, the transfiguration on the mountain top of the personality by the soul. But this revelation can occur only as the result of effort, of the ability to rise above the limitations of the personality, to persist on the upward way in spite of hindrances and difficulties. There is no easy way for an individual to free himself from his own limitations of selfishness and separateness; and there are no short cuts. It is a long, painful process in which we learn eventually by personal experience that self-discipline, self-control and self-sacrifice form the foundation stones of discipleship.

On this foundation the superstructure of a loving, responsible way of life, reflecting the values of the soul, may eventually develop. This growth in consciousness becomes the way of initiation, the way to the mountain top, towards the supernal light which reveals the soul as the real Self, the Plan as the responsibility of discipleship, and the spiritual Hierarchy of the planet as the center of love into which initiation admits the accepted disciple. Capricorn is therefore the outstanding sign of initiation.
–Capricorn Full Moon (Sun/Mon 12 & 13 January) • Lucis Trust

Capricorn symbolizes the journey of the soul towards enlightenment and the attainment of higher states of consciousness, culminating in the realization of “at-one-ment.” This journey mirrors the path towards Cosmic Love, where the individual transcends personal limitations and embraces a universal, all-encompassing love.

1. Spiritual Ascent: Capricorn’s energy is about climbing the spiritual mountain, overcoming obstacles, and reaching the pinnacle of spiritual awareness. This ascent reflects the process of moving from personal love to Cosmic Love, where one transcends ego and personal desires to embrace a higher, more inclusive form of love.
2. Initiation and Transformation: Capricorn is associated with initiation of transfiguration, a transformative process that leads to a deeper understanding of one’s true nature and the interconnectedness of all life. This transformation is essential for experiencing Cosmic Love, as it requires a shift from seeing oneself as separate to recognizing the unity of all existence.
3. At-One-Ment: The state of at-one-ment achieved through Capricorn’s energies is a realization of oneness with the divine and all creation. This aligns with Cosmic Love, which is characterized by a profound sense of unity and compassion for all beings, transcending individual differences and separations.
4. Mastery and Responsibility: Capricorn also signifies mastery and the responsibility that comes with spiritual maturity. Initiation is a social responsibility. Embracing Cosmic Love involves taking responsibility for one’s role in the greater whole, acting with wisdom and compassion to contribute positively to the collective evolution.

In essence, the energies of Capricorn guide the seeker towards the realization of Cosmic Love by fostering spiritual growth, transformation, and the ultimate recognition of oneness with all that is. This journey is both an individual and collective endeavor, leading to a more harmonious and unified existence.

The first Ray of Will or Power is distinguished by the highest known divine quality (there are others still higher). In the word, GOODWILL, the secret purpose of the planetary Logos is hidden. It is being slowly brought to the attention of humanity by means of the three phrases: God is Love. Goodwill. The Will-to-Good. These three phrases, in reality concern the three aspects of the first ray.

The Tibetan Master in The Rays and the Initiations (p. 645) published by the Lucis Trust.

God is Love

The four fundamental forces of nature offer a compelling metaphor for exploring the interplay of attraction and radiation in the universe, reflecting the concepts of love and light.

Attractive Energy of Love:

1. Gravitational Force: This force is the most direct analogy to the attractive energy of love. Gravity pulls objects towards one another, much like love draws individuals and communities together, fostering connection and unity.
2. Electromagnetic Force: While this force includes both attraction and repulsion, the attractive aspect can be likened to love’s ability to bind atoms and molecules, creating the foundation for matter and life. It represents the binding power of love at a fundamental level.
3. Strong Nuclear Force: This force holds the nuclei of atoms together, overcoming the repulsion between protons. It parallels love’s ability to maintain cohesion and stability in relationships and communities, even amidst challenges.
4. Weak Nuclear Force: Though primarily associated with decay processes, it plays a role in the transformation and evolution of particles. This can be seen as love’s transformative power, facilitating growth and change within individuals and systems.

Radiant Energy of Light:

• Light as a Radiant Force: Light represents the centrifugal, radiant energy that spreads outward, illuminating and revealing. It contrasts with the centripetal nature of love by emphasizing expansion, expression, and the dissemination of knowledge and awareness.
• Contrast with Love: While love draws inward, creating bonds and unity, light radiates outward, symbolizing enlightenment, clarity, and the sharing of wisdom. Together, they form a dynamic balance—love unites and holds, while light expands and enlightens.

In summary, the fundamental forces of nature can be metaphorically related to the attractive energy of love, which binds and unifies, and the radiant energy of light, which expands and illuminates. This interplay reflects the dual nature of existence, where attraction and radiation work together to create a harmonious and evolving universe.

The Great Invocation

From the point of Light within the Mind of God
Let light stream forth into the minds of men.
Let Light descend on Earth.

From the point of Love within the Heart of God
Let love stream forth into the hearts of men.
May Christ return to Earth.

From the centre where the Will of God is known
Let purpose guide the little wills of men –
The purpose which the Masters know and serve.

From the centre which we call the race of men
Let the Plan of Love and Light work out
And may it seal the door where evil dwells.

Let Light and Love and Power restore the Plan on Earth.

It is a perplexing paradox of human existence that while some enjoy meals under warm roofs, others endure cold hunger under bomb-stricken skies. Life’s apparent indifference to suffering creates a tapestry where joy interweaves with despair, often at the same moment and separated by miles. How do we reconcile this disparity? The question is neither merely philosophical nor rhetorical—it is an ethical challenge that confronts us all.

Some can go on with their lives while others suffer for reasons both simple and profound. Our lives unfold within concentric circles of obligation. Family, work, community—these demand direct attention. It’s neither inherently immoral nor blind privilege, but rather a function of immediacy and personal capacity. Yet, this focus on what is here and now can dull our vision of what lies further afield. The truth is, the suffering of others often demands more imagination than experience. Without proximity, it becomes easier to compartmentalize their pain into distant headlines or fleeting thoughts.

This raises a critical question for personal ethics: is the “immediately present” a reasonable boundary for our moral responsibilities? To some extent, it is understandable. Human relationships are forged by immediacy—by the pull of shared spaces and the gravity of shared lives. We are naturally inclined to protect and nurture those closest to us, extending care to family, friends, and neighbors. But when that boundary becomes rigid—when it stops expanding outward—it narrows the lens through which we see human suffering.

What about the people we never meet, in places we never visit? Are their lives less deserving of our empathy or assistance? Judging ethical responsibility based solely on proximity risks reducing morality to an accident of geography. It asks too little of us and ignores the interconnectedness of a global society where the consequences of one’s actions—or inaction—can ripple far beyond immediate borders. The world today demands a broader moral horizon, one where “neighbor” is not confined to the house next door but includes the stranger across an ocean.

But here lies yet another layer of complexity. Does proximity—physical, emotional, or cultural—subtly dictate the scale of our commitment to addressing human suffering? The answer is sobering. For many, the circumstances of their own lives create a hierarchy of care, with the nearest concerns prioritized and the distant left for the abstracted hands of NGOs, governments, or fate. This proportionality of care, though practical, can become skewed into a sort of moral lethargy. Think of how a sinking refugee boat may stir a moment of sadness but a neighbor’s house fire drives you to immediate action, fueled by urgency and a sense of duty.

If our moral commitments are bounded by the luck of longitude or the mere familiarity of faces, what does that say about the depth of our compassion? True ethical engagement requires a conscious effort to stretch beyond instinctual boundaries. It demands questioning the comfortable inertia of “the immediately present.”

Perhaps this is what karma teaches us—not as a deterministic ledger of deeds, but as a reminder that the causes we ignore today will eventually circle back to us. The plumes of smoke rising from another country’s suffering may seem distant now, but in our interconnected world, what harms one part of humanity reverberates across its collective soul. Drought, war, pandemics, exploitation—these are not wholly distant catastrophes. They are threads in a fabric that binds us all.

To address human suffering proportionally not to distance, but to urgency and justice, is the task before us. It begins by acknowledging that your immediate life may insulate you but should not isolate you. It begins when the boundary between “here” and “there” dissolves, replaced by a recognition that the core of our shared humanity does not weaken with distance.

The karma of the immediately present is to test our ethical vision. Will we be bound by the nearness of our lives, or will the knowledge of suffering elsewhere serve not just as a lament, but as a call? The answer rests in how willing we are to stretch beyond the present and the immediate, reaching outward to act for those we may never see yet know—through their pain, through their resilience—as part of ourselves.

The Angels’ Flames are not merely calamities to endure; they are lessons set before us, beckoning us to rise above division, distraction, and the mundane. From Los Angeles to Gaza, from silent flames to deafening bomb blasts, these fires reveal who we are—and who we might yet become. We must reconcile with more than climate or conflict; we must reconcile with the higher truths they illuminate. Only then can we hope to extinguish these fires, not just in the world, but within ourselves. And when we do, perhaps the angels will indeed descend, carrying with them the light we so desperately need in a heartbroken world.
–https://hierarchicaldemocracy.blog/2025/01/12/angels-flames/

The Quest for the Holy Grail

The Holy Grail is often interpreted as a powerful symbol of spiritual seeking and enlightenment, representing humanity’s deep-rooted quest for meaning and truth. In many interpretations, the Grail is not just a physical object, but a metaphor for the inner journey towards self-discovery and higher consciousness. This quest is emblematic of the human desire to transcend ordinary existence and connect with a greater, divine source. The Grail, therefore, serves as a beacon for those on a path to enlightenment, encouraging introspection, personal growth, and the pursuit of wisdom beyond worldly possessions.
-Excerpt from Montserrat: A Spiritual Journey

The golden ratio, denoted as Phi (φ), is a mathematical principle that has fascinated scholars, artists, and philosophers for centuries. Its unique property of dividing a whole into unequal yet aesthetically balanced parts gives it a special place in the study of geometry, art, and the natural world. This essay explores the concept of the golden ratio as a representation of the divine feminine principle, examining its mathematical significance, its connection to Hermetic philosophy, its geometric relationships, and its symbolic representation in mythology.

The Mathematical Significance of the Golden Ratio

The golden ratio is defined as the division of a line into two parts such that the whole length divided by the longer part is equal to the longer part divided by the shorter part. This proportion, approximately 1.618, is considered aesthetically pleasing and appears in various forms in nature, art, and architecture. This unique division allows for a harmonious balance, resonating with the idea of beauty and symmetry. Its pervasive presence across different disciplines underscores its significance as a universal law of proportion.

Phi and the Hermetic Axiom “As Above, So Below”

In Hermetic philosophy, the axiom “As Above, So Below” represents the idea of correspondence between different planes of existence. Phi can be seen as the mathematical embodiment of this axiom, applying the Law of Analogy in the intuitive understanding of reality. By reflecting a pattern that is both finite and infinite, the golden ratio serves as a bridge between the tangible world and abstract concepts, illustrating how mathematical principles can mirror metaphysical truths.

Geometric Relationships with the Golden Ratio

Phi’s unique relationship with certain geometric shapes is well-documented, particularly in the pentagram, pentagon, and dodecahedron. In a regular pentagon, the ratio of a diagonal to a side is the golden ratio. The pentagram, formed by extending the sides of a pentagon, is abundant with φ-related proportions, creating a network of harmonious relationships. In three dimensions, the dodecahedron, with its twelve pentagonal faces, embodies the golden ratio in its structure. These geometric relationships highlight the pervasive influence of φ in both two and three-dimensional forms.

The Pentagram of Venus and Celestial Symmetry

The orbital relationship between Earth and Venus creates a fascinating pentagram pattern, known as the “Venus Rose” or “Pentagram of Venus,” over time. This pattern emerges from their synodic cycle, the period it takes for Venus to return to the same position relative to Earth and the Sun. Over eight Earth years, Venus completes five synodic cycles, forming a geometric pattern noted for its beauty and symmetry. This celestial phenomenon further illustrates the connection between the golden ratio and the natural world, where mathematical elegance manifests in astronomical movements.

The Feminine Principle and Mythological Symbolism

Metaphorically, φ and its reciprocal (1/φ) can be considered representations of the Feminine Principle of the Godhead. Venus, as an exalted expression of beauty in art, also embodies this principle as a goddess represented by Athena and Artemis in Greek mythology. The mathematical expression 1/a = a/b = φ suggests a harmonious balance that resonates with the nurturing and creative aspects of the feminine. By viewing (1/φ) as a manifestation of this principle, we highlight the interconnectedness of mathematical beauty and mythological symbolism, both seeking to express the underlying harmony of the universe.

Philosophical exploration

The interplay between the dynamic Yin-Yang duality in time and the Phi ratio in space offers a profound reflection on balance and harmony across different dimensions. Rooted in Eastern philosophy, Yin and Yang represent the cyclical nature of existence, embodying the constant flow and transformation of energy. These opposite forces are in perpetual motion, creating a dynamic equilibrium that echoes throughout the universe.

In contrast, the Phi ratio, or the golden ratio, emerges from Western mathematics as an emblem of spatial perfection. It is a constant found in the spirals of galaxies, the patterns in pinecones, and the proportions of ancient architecture. The golden ratio signifies an ideal state of balance and harmony, a spatial blueprint that underpins beauty and order.

To intertwine these concepts is to bridge the fluidity of time with the structure of space. Yin-Yang’s temporal dance reflects the shifting scales of balance, akin to the spiraling growth patterns governed by the Phi ratio. Both concepts speak to a universal symmetry, where dynamic processes and static geometries converge. The cyclical ebb and flow of Yin and Yang can be seen as a temporal echo of the Phi ratio’s spatial harmony, each informing the other in a cosmic rhythm.

Philosophically, this relationship illustrates the seamless integration of time and space, where the quest for balance and beauty transcends cultural boundaries. It invites us to consider the interconnectedness of all things, suggesting that the pursuit of harmony—whether in the fluidity of time or the structure of space—is a universal endeavor. This synthesis of Eastern and Western thought offers a pathway to understanding the deep-seated order that underlies our existence, inviting reflection on how these timeless principles can guide us toward a deeper appreciation of the world around us.

The geometric method of removing a square from a golden rectangle is directly related to the mathematical formulation of Phi.

1. Golden Ratio Definition: This means that the ratio of the sum of two quantities (a+b) to the larger quantity (a) is the same as the ratio of the larger quantity (a) to the smaller quantity (b).
   
2. Geometric Construction:

Iterative Process: This process can be repeated indefinitely, each time creating a smaller golden rectangle, which visually demonstrates the self-similar and recursive nature of the golden ratio.

Thus, the geometric method of removing squares from a golden rectangle is a visual and iterative representation of the mathematical definition of the golden ratio, illustrating how the proportions remain constant and self-similar at every step.

The interplay between geometry, mathematics, and philosophical ideas offers a rich tapestry for exploring how patterns and structures in the natural world can reflect deeper meanings and connections.

The concept of self-similarity, as seen in the golden ratio and fractals, can be metaphorically related to philosophical and spiritual ideas, such as the immanence of a divine presence in creation. This idea suggests that just as self-similar patterns repeat at every scale in mathematics, a divine essence might be reflected throughout the universe in various forms.

Furthermore, the dodecahedron (12 pentagons) and the icosahedron (20 triangles are geometric duals.

Approximating a whole, such as a circle, using self-similar shapes like triangles, aligns with mathematical concepts like tessellation and fractal geometry. In these concepts, smaller and smaller shapes can be used to approach a complete form, much like how a circle can be approximated by inscribing polygons with an increasing number of sides.

The tessellation of a unit circle can be approached using triangular fractals, although it’s important to note that a perfect tessellation of a circle with triangles isn’t possible in the traditional sense, as circles and triangles have fundamentally different geometries. However, you can approximate the circle using a series of increasingly smaller triangles, creating a fractal-like pattern.

It can be conceptually visualized, thus:

1. Polygon Approximation: Start by inscribing a polygon, such as a hexagon, within the circle. This polygon can be divided into triangles.
2. Iterative Subdivision: Each triangle can be subdivided into smaller triangles, iteratively refining the approximation of the circle’s curvature.
3. Fractal Approach: By continuing this process, you create a fractal pattern where the triangles become smaller and more numerous, closely approximating the circle’s boundary.

This method is similar to how fractals like the Koch snowflake are constructed, where a simple shape is repeatedly subdivided to create a complex boundary. While this doesn’t result in a perfect tessellation, it provides a fascinating way to explore the relationship between linear and curved geometries.

I have said earlier that the intersecting energies in the etheric body of the planet are at this time a network of squares. When the creative process is complete and evolution has done its work, these squares will become a network of triangles. Necessarily this is a symbolic way of speaking. In the Book of Revelations which was dictated 1900 years ago by the disciple who is now known as the Master Hilarion, reference is made to the “city which stands four-square.” The etheric vehicle of the planet was inherited from a former solar system, with the purpose or intention in view of its transformation into a network of triangles in this solar system. In the next one of the triplicity of solar systems (the third or last) in which the will of God works out, the etheric body will begin as a network of triangles, but this will be resolved into a network of interlinked circles or of linked rings, indicating the fulfilment of interlocking relationships.

• The Tibetan Master in Telepathy and the Etheric Vehicle, p. 163.

A fractal triangular tessellation can potentially provide a more efficient approximation of the area of a circle compared to a fractal square tessellation, primarily due to the geometric properties of triangles versus squares.

Triangles offer a better fit because:

1. Flexibility in Shape: Triangles, being three-sided, can more easily conform to curved surfaces compared to squares. This flexibility allows for a closer approximation of the circle’s curvature.
2. Subdivision Efficiency: Triangles can be subdivided into smaller triangles more naturally, maintaining their shape and allowing for a finer approximation of the circle’s boundary with each iteration.
3. Polygonal Approximation: Starting with a polygonal approximation of the circle (like a hexagon or dodecagon) and subdividing into triangles can more closely match the circle’s area as the number of subdivisions increases.

In contrast, squares, with their right angles, tend to leave more gaps or require more complex arrangements to approximate curves, which can lead to less efficient coverage of the circle’s area.

Overall, while both methods can approximate the circle’s area, using triangles might result in a more accurate and visually appealing approximation due to their ability to better conform to the circle’s shape.

The etheric webs of the sacred planets are largely triangles whilst that of the Sun is that of interlaced circles. The effort on Earth today (as seen by the planetary Logos) is to bring about a transformation of the web of the planet and thus slowly change the existing squares into triangles. This is done by the creation of division, by the application of the Law of Separation, but also by the recognition, in consciousness, of duality, the application of directed motion and the appearance of two triangles in the place of one square. When this has taken place, the perceiving consciousness recognises identity and the rule of the square is ended. These words were once spoken to me by an ancient seer who bisected the square esoterically, thus forming two triangles and united them in a fresh manifestation to form a Star of Life. Ponder on this.

-The Tibetan Master in Esoteric Astrology, p. 479.

_{[Note: The term “Star of Life” is widely known as a symbol used in emergency medical services (EMS). It features a blue six-pointed star with a Rod of Asclepius in the center, representing medicine and healing.
A Star Tetrahedron, formed by two interlocking tetrahedra, can be circumscribed within a cube, each vertex of the tetrahedra touching a vertex of the cube. The 2-D projection of a Star Tetrahedron typically results in a shape that resembles a hexagram or a six-pointed star, similar to the Star of David.  This is because the projection of the interlocking tetrahedra creates overlapping triangles, forming a six-pointed star pattern.]}

There is a beautifully poetic way to describe the geometric and philosophical interplay between these shapes and concepts. By iteratively removing squares from a golden rectangle, we create a spiral that embodies the self-similar properties of the golden ratio. This process can indeed be seen as a metaphor for transformation and creation.

In this context, the transformation from squares to triangles through the properties of the dodecahedron and icosahedron highlights the dynamic relationship between different geometric forms. The idea that Phi facilitates this transformation aligns with the notion of moving from simplicity to complexity, from the square to the triangle, and from the finite to the infinite.

This metaphorical journey from squares to triangles, and ultimately to a more efficient tessellation of the unit circle, can be seen as a reflection of the divine process of creation—where the One, or the divine essence, manifests in the complexity and beauty of the universe. It’s a wonderful way to connect mathematical concepts with philosophical and spiritual ideas, illustrating how geometry can serve as a bridge between the tangible and the abstract.

Agni Yoga: the Practice of the Presence

As previously mentioned, the concept of self-similarity, as seen in the golden ratio and fractals, can be metaphorically related to philosophical and spiritual ideas, such as the immanence of a divine presence in creation. Just as self-similar patterns repeat at every scale in mathematics, a divine essence is reflected throughout the universe in various forms.

The golden ratio embodies a profound connection between mathematics, philosophy, and spirituality. As a representation of the divine feminine principle, it offers a lens through which we can understand the balance and beauty inherent in the universe. Through its geometric relationships and celestial patterns, Phi serves as a testament to the enduring harmony that guides both the tangible and the intangible realms.

Sacred geometry, with its emphasis on patterns and proportions found in Mother Nature, is intricately related to spiritual practices like mindfulness and Agni Yoga by providing a visual and meditative focus that embodies the interconnectedness of all things.

1. Symbolic Representation: Sacred geometry uses shapes and patterns that are often seen as symbols — mandalas — of the universe’s underlying order. Engaging with these symbols can help practitioners feel a deeper connection to the cosmos and the divine, fostering a sense of unity and presence.
2. Meditative Focus: The intricate and harmonious designs of sacred geometry can serve as focal points for meditation, helping individuals concentrate and quiet their minds. This focus can enhance mindfulness by encouraging practitioners to remain present and aware of the moment.
3. Reflection of Natural Order: By contemplating the geometric patterns that mirror natural forms, practitioners can cultivate an appreciation for the beauty and complexity of creation. This reflection can deepen their sense of gratitude and awareness, key components of mindfulness and spiritual growth.
4. Integration of Mind and Spirit: In practices like Agni Yoga, which emphasize the synthesis of spiritual and material aspects of life, sacred geometry can act as a bridge. It visually represents the harmony between the physical and spiritual realms, encouraging practitioners to integrate these aspects within themselves.
5. Inspiration for Transformation: The self-similar and fractal nature of sacred geometry can inspire personal transformation. Just as these patterns evolve and expand, individuals can be motivated to grow and develop spiritually, embracing change as a natural and divine process.

By incorporating sacred geometry into spiritual practices, individuals can enhance their experience of the “practice of the presence,” fostering a deeper connection to themselves, the universe, and the divine. This integration can lead to a more profound sense of peace, purpose, and unity.

Geometry has two great treasures: one is the theorem of Pythagoras, the other the division of a line into “extreme” (unique) and “mean” (balanced) ratio. The first we may compare to a mass of gold, the second we may call a precious jewel
– Johannes Kepler

Note: In plain English, the golden ratio, which Euclid called the “extreme and mean ratio,” can be described as the unique way of dividing a whole into two unequal parts that are aesthetically balanced and pleasing. 

When a rectangle is constructed using two unit squares that circumscribe a Vesica Piscis, the diagonal of this rectangle is the square root of 5. This is because the diagonal of a rectangle formed by two unit squares (each side of length 1) is calculated using the Pythagorean theorem.  The Phi formula directly incorporates the square root of 5, highlighting a deep mathematical connection between the geometry of the Vesica Piscis and the properties of the golden ratio.

MSNBC’s Ari Melber spoke with Reverend Al Sharpton and Michael Cohen lawyer Lanny Davis about the MAGA hopeful’s former “fixer’s” demeanor during testimony, and what kind of impact he could have on the jury.

[Note: “Right My Wrongs” is a song about taking responsibility for one’s actions in relationships, apologizing for mistakes, and making amends to restore the relationship. The song’s emotional vocals coupled with the intense beat underscore the gravity of the situation and the protagonist’s desire to make things right.]

This prayer was inspired by Michael Cohen’s plight as he disowns the Cult that ensnared him in a web of lies. May he find the fortitude to face himself — the Dweller on the Threshold — in cross-examination. In the crucifixion of his lower self, may he do his part in liberating us all from the evil of mob rule menacing the United States, so as to make America’s promise GOOD again. -JB

Prayer of a Rehabilitated Sinner

I have sinned.

I am truly sorry for any harm I’ve done,

And I expect a penalty commensurate to my sin,

So that I learn from my mistakes,

And avoid making them again.

We are not what we were;

We are what we are and will be: here and now.

My imperfections, even as I own them,

Do not define me.

We have the right to become better,

As we forgive the past, ours and others’,

To be some day reborn in the true image of God,

In all its Truth, Beauty and Goodness.

Dear God, I desire to be good.

In your Name I pray.

Amen.

Poem of a Rehabilitated Sinner

I have sinned, this truth I bear,

And for the harm done, I deeply care.

A penalty proportionate to my fault,

To learn from errors, and bring them to a halt.

No longer are we bound by yesterday;

We stand here now, evolving in our way.

My flaws, though mine, don’t define my soul;

They’re steps towards becoming whole.

We’re granted the chance to improve our stance,

Forgiving the past with a forward glance.

In God’s true image, may we find our rebirth,

Radiating Truth, Beauty, and Goodness on Earth.

Dear Lord, to be good is my earnest plea,

In Your sacred Name, I pray to Thee.

Amen.

Desiderata: Original Text

This is the original text from the book where Desiderata was first published.

Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons.

Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexatious to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.

And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

by Max Ehrmann ©1927

Source: https://www.desiderata.com/desiderata.html