Light in Physics and Spirituality:
A Reflection on the Principle of Right Relations

Introduction

The concept of ‘relation’ serves as a foundational element in both mathematical and semantic contexts. Mathematically, a relation, particularly in the form of a ratio, denotes a quantitative comparison between two or more entities, establishing a precise connection based on proportionality. For instance, four right triangles within a square provide the geometrical proof of the Pythagorean Theorem.

Semantically, a relationship refers to the qualitative connections, interactions, or associations that exist between entities, encompassing a broad spectrum of linkages from personal bonds to abstract affiliations.

This dual understanding of relation provides a unique vantage point from which to explore the multifaceted phenomenon of light. In physics, light is understood as electromagnetic radiation, characterized by a perpendicular (90-degree, right) relationship between electric and magnetic fields. Contrastingly, in spirituality, light often symbolizes enlightenment, epitomized by the Buddha’s teachings on the Eightfold Noble Path. This essay proposes that both scientific and spiritual interpretations of light can be unified under a broader “principle of right relations,” offering profound insights into the nature of reality and our place within it.

Light in Physics: Electromagnetic Radiation and the Right Angle Relationship

In the realm of physics, light is a type of electromagnetic radiation, visible to the human eye within a specific wavelength range. A defining characteristic of electromagnetic waves is the perpendicular relationship between their electric and magnetic fields, which oscillate at right angles to each other and to the direction of wave propagation.

This 90-degree relation is not arbitrary but is a fundamental aspect of how light behaves and interacts with the physical world. It ensures the stability and transverse nature of electromagnetic waves in ethereal space. The right angle relationship between these fields is a prime example of the principle of right relations in physics, embodying harmony, balance, and efficiency in the natural world.

Light in Spirituality: Enlightenment and the Principle of Right Relations

In spiritual traditions, particularly within Buddhism, light is metaphorically associated with enlightenment, a state of profound understanding and awakening to the true nature of reality. The Buddha’s teaching on the Eightfold Noble Path articulates a comprehensive guide to achieving this enlightened state, emphasizing the importance of ‘right’ or correct practices: right view, right aspiration, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration. Each component represents a facet of living in harmony with ethical and moral principles, leading to the cessation of suffering and the attainment of Nirvana.

The spiritual journey towards enlightenment can be seen as an alignment with the principle of right relations, where ‘right’ signifies alignment with truth, harmony, and ethical conduct. This principle underscores the importance of balanced and harmonious relationships—within oneself, with others, and with the world at large.

The Unifying Principle of Right Relations

Bridging the domains of physics and spirituality, the principle of right relations offers a compelling framework for understanding light in its various manifestations. In physics, the right angle relationship between electric and magnetic fields exemplifies a fundamental natural order, a harmonious arrangement that enables the existence and propagation of light. In spirituality, the emphasis on rightness in the Eightfold Noble Path highlights the pursuit of harmony within the self and the universe as a pathway to enlightenment.

This convergence suggests that the principle of right relations may underlie both the physical and spiritual realms, pointing to a deeper unity within the cosmos. It implies that harmony, balance, and ethical alignment are not only moral ideals but also integral to the fabric of reality. Whether through the precise angles of electromagnetic waves or the ethical guidelines for spiritual growth, the principle of right relations emerges as a fundamental truth, guiding both the laws of physics and the path to spiritual awakening.

Conclusion

The exploration of light, from the scientific perspective of electromagnetic radiation to the spiritual symbolism of enlightenment, reveals a profound connection underpinned by the principle of right relations. This principle, manifesting as the right angle in physics and the right path in spirituality, serves as a bridge between these seemingly disparate domains. It invites us to consider the ways in which harmony, balance, and ethical alignment are woven into the very structure of the universe and the human quest for understanding and meaning. By recognizing and aligning with this principle, we not only deepen our comprehension of light in all its forms but also embrace a unifying perspective that transcends the boundaries between science and spirituality.

2024.04.20: This essay is prepared in anticipation of the 2024 Wesak Full Moon, observed worldwide on Tuesday, April 23, to commemorate Lord (Gautama) Buddha’s annual blessing to humanity. Although the physical ceremony at the Himalayas (Mount Kailash) may no longer take place as it did for many centuries, His living Presence is radiated throughout the world at the Taurus Full Moon each year. In doing so, He strengthens His commitment to the externalization of the planetary spiritual Hierarchy of Masters of Wisdom and Compassion currently underway, as well as His support for the imminent physical reappearance of His Brother, Lord Maitreya, who currently holds the Office of the Christ, the World Teacher, an Office held by Gautama Buddha many thousands of years ago. Lord Buddha’s Three Vestures are being donned by Lord Maitreya, the Christ, as He reenacts the Gethsemane experience of 2,000 years ago, now with an enhanced Chalice (Vestures).

No longer need Christ, in agony say “Father, not my will but Thine be done”; He has today no personal will but only the will of His Father animates Him and the ability to make decisions which are a full expression of that divine Will. It is difficult to express His achievement in other words. Commentators have sought to explain away and gloss over the Gethsemane experience of the Christ, and to attribute what appears as weakness to an upsurging of Christ’s humanity and, consequently, to a temporary submergence of His divine nature. They have been forced into this position because of the prevalent theological dictum as to Christ’s divine perfection—an absolute, sovereign and ultimate perfection to which He Himself never made the slightest claim. He is today nearer that perfection than He ever was when before on Earth. It was this divine unfoldment which made it possible for Him to make right choice [to physically reappear], not only for Himself but also for the spiritual Hierarchy, during the years of decision [1936-1945], prior to [His formal announcement to the planetary spiritual Hierarchy, approved by Sanat Kumara in Shamballa, the Father’s House in] June, 1945 .

Under the divine will, He had to reappear on Earth in visible Presence. He had to preside over the materialization of the Kingdom of God on Earth, and He had to re-institute the Mysteries of Initiation in such a form that they would prove the basis of the new world religion. Above all, He had to reveal the nature of the will of God. That will is often regarded as a power by means of which things are done, situations are brought about, activities are instituted and plans are worked out, and often ruthlessly worked out. This general definition is the easiest for men to formulate, because it is understood by them in terms of their own self-will, the will to individual self-betterment. This type of will is selfish and misunderstood at first, but tends eventually to selflessness, as evolution carries out its beneficent task. Then the will is interpreted in terms of the hierarchical plan and the effort of the individual man becomes that of negating his original self-will, and seeking then to merge his will with that of the group—the group being itself an aspect of hierarchical effort. This is a great step onward in orientation and will lead eventually to a change in consciousness.

From the book The Reappearance of the Christ by Alice. A. Bailey, pp. 70-71.