7

What, then, is thine ideal? Is it founded in that ye yourself may do, or that in which ye may be the channel through which others may find their association with a living God, a living ideal, a living love, a living faith, a living experience of joy? These be they which are of the truth, and thus grow as does the spirit of truth.

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Spirit Is the Real Life

Reading 1998-1

But know, all has its concept in spirit—then mind; and mind is the builder.

Reading 1999-1

For remember, mind is the builder between the things spiritual (from which all emanate) and that which is material (which is the manifestation that mind seeks to bring ever into the experience of all).

Reading 2062-1

Hence again the injunction—look upon all phases; for there is the mental, the material and the spiritual, and these are the phases of man’s reaction and man’s activity. Do not apply the law of the spiritual in material things, nor the material in spiritual things. Remember that mind is the builder, and the spirit giveth life. And as ye use and dwell upon such, be sure thy ideal is in Him.

Reading 2247-1

But keep the spiritual life first. The mental and material should be the outgrowth, the result of spiritual attainments.

Reading 2281-1

Depart not from the faith thou findest in Him, and may it be renewed as the spirit ever is within thee. For the spirit is the life. The life is the purpose, the desire. Make them sure in Him.

Reading 2322-2

Know that all must first be conceived from the spiritual, and then magnified or grown through the mental application as an experience coming into material application in the lives of others.

Q: Can suggestions be made as to how self mastery can be developed; that is, will power and initiative?

A: Study that from the spiritual angle, if there would be that power, that might to succeed. For, as has been given, all first finds concept in the spiritual. The mental is the builder. This is true in planning the life, the relationships, and every phase of man’s existence or experience.

Reading 2328-1

First, know thine own ideals—physical, mental, spiritual. Know that the spiritual and mental, and the material, must arise from that which is of spiritual concept; for only the spirit and mental are eternal, and only that of the mental that is spiritual in its concept—or creative in its relationships to things, conditions, experiences, places or individuals.

Reading 2357-1

Yes, we have the body and those conditions as surround same, [2357]. Now, we find there are those conditions as are abnormal for this body, and these may, in the correct application of those conditions and elements necessary, be brought to a much better and a nearer normal functioning of this body. While conditions are aggravated at times, and while seemingly there is little that may be accomplished in the physical to correct some of the conditions that disturb the body, there should first be gained the consciousness by this body that there are those elements in the physical condition of each body that will bring that for the physical functioning of that body that necessary conditions for the body to meet the needs of the body, in the physical, then mental, the moral, and the spiritual welfare of the conditions. Spirit is life, whether related to the physical functioning of the atomic forces within the system or whether that of the mental being of a body, and these must coordinate in the proper direction one with another, just as much as it is necessary for a physical functioning organ to coordinate with the rest of the system. For instance, here, with this body, there have been times when seemingly little or nothing would be assimilated or digested by the body. The necessity of assimilation is as much necessary as the desire for food; for what profit it a body to desire to eat, will the food eaten not assimilate and build that necessary for the sustenance and replenishing of the physical body? There is seen in the physical forces that there has existed, and does exist, certain disturbances in the nervous system. These have to do with both the cerebro-spinal and sympathetic nerve system. In the physical functioning of a body, the subligations or impingements of nerve or nerve plexuses, or nerve branches, become a physical action, and these in their turn produced, or produce, physical results; while conditions or disturbances in plexus that control, or are controlled by certain reflexes from the cerebro-spinal to the sympathetic system, may not so easily be directed by the removal of pressure in a portion of the body. What is active upon such conditions, then, that these may be aided? That of the physical is the vibratory rate at which the nerve functions to produce coordination in the functioning of the system, as related to the sensory organism or as is seen with this body, there are disturbances in the functioning of organs of the sensory system. These organs possess, and have, their individual machine apparatus for the functioning of the system in the direction in which that organism or organ is to function, or its own modus operandi is within itself a portion of the whole, yet dependent upon the coordination of both the cerebro-spinal and sympathetic to function in its proper relation with that organ of the system, that that as is assimilated, that as is builded in the system, may produce that necessary for the proper vibratory forces as to bring the result of the condition desired, or, as in this case, in the hearing, or as in the feeling. The auditory forces, then, abnormal to the conditions as should be created in this body here...

Reading 2390-1

Numbers, too, become at times an influence; as three and its multiples being the phases of the entity in its various moods, or in its various manners of seeking. For, the entity finds—within itself—there is the physical, with all its emotions; the mental with its abilities to grasp and to build and to change the aspects of the physical if they be purely of the bodily forces or those conditions or thoughts or individual experiences; as well as the spiritual from which emanates the essence of all power, might and strength! Rely upon that more.

Reading 2408-1

In material manifestation, or the activities of these principles in a causation or three-dimensional world, one gradually realizes then the less of self and the more of world, one gradually realizes then the less of self and the more of the creative forces in the experience; thus bringing one closer to the understanding that like begets like—that what is sown in spirit may grow in mind, may find fruit in materiality—and that this changed may be just the reverse—that the dwelling upon material influence of selfish natures separates spirit from the control of mind, the builder.

Reading 2533-6

That is as the spirit. And as the spirit builds, as the spirit forms in its activity in mind, the mind becomes then the builder. The mind is not the spirit, it is a companion to the spirit; it builds a pattern. And this is the beginning of how self may raise that expectancy of its period of activity in the earth. And this is the beginning of thy ideal. Of what? Of that the soul should, does, will, can, must, accomplish in this experience!

Reading 2647-1

This is lack of self-confidence. This is lack of the ideal that is spiritual. For, know, all things material have first their inception in the spiritual. Then they give or take form in the mental, finding expression in the material. Illustrate this in that as brings to mind the concept of the music of nature, the music of the spheres, the music of the birds, the poetic expressions that oft rise to thy mind. These gradually give impressions.

Reading 2709-1

One of noble purposes, and given to good works towards others, especially that as relates to building of the mental abilities of an individual. In this respect there may be given that to the entity here, which—correlated with those ideas as have been and are being building within self towards self’s development—would be well to apply in this present experience; that is, the life of every atomic force is the spirit of same. The mental is the builder, and the physical or sensuous manifestation is the result—and that life projects itself in that manner in which it is directed by that builded in the continuity of the life force as is radiated through that builded. See?

Reading 2727-1

First, as to thy ideal of moral and mental relationships—know that these are altogether founded in spiritual aspects. For, as the body finds itself—it is body, mind, soul. The soul lives on, builded by the mind. The body is the material manifestation. Know thy ideal.

Reading 2747-1

First, find self—and know thy own ideal, spiritually, mentally, materially. And know that the material fadeth away, the mental may bring life or death according to the choice of the mind itself.

Then in mind and in body the entity must have its life in spirit. For, this alone abideth forever.

Reading 2751-1

Q: How may I help my daughter, [...], to solve her marital problem?

A: These can best be studied in the light of those suggestions indicated as to the application of self through the various experiences in the earth.

Remember, if the spiritual is put first and foremost, if the purpose of an individual is in the right direction, the material happenings will eventually come right. These may at times appear confusing and as being contradictory, but the law of the Lord is perfect.

To enable an individual to find these is the understanding where all marital relationships may be best understood.

Individuals do not meet by chance. They are necessary in the experiences of others, though they may not always use their opportunities in a spiritual way or manner.

Thus the injunction—study to show thyself approved unto thy ideal, which is thy God. If ye make thyself god, if ye make thy hopes, thy wants, thy purposes thy god, they become selfish, they become monsters, they become destroying influences.

Teach, give instruction, even as ye did in the Egyptian experience. There ye aided. Now ye may aid; not by material.

And do not condemn anyone!

Reading 2772-1

For, life is God, or eternity, and thus is a continuous thing. Various consciousnesses in various spheres of activity are only as a part of the experience, as the mind is the controlling and the building force in the physical being. For, Mind is the Builder. That which is of the spirit is that which is proposed, while that in the physical is as the result of material application.

Reading 2776-1

Find thy ideal, spiritually, mentally and materially. Know that all force has its expression first in spirit. True, mind is the control—through that activity comes the material expression of same.

Reading 2786-1

These may become stumblingblocks in the entity’s experience even in the present. Look to that which is an ideal, and be sure it is founded in that of spiritual import. For, every fact has its inception in spirit; mind is the builder, the material expression is the outcome of one of these upon the other. The spirit is of creation, or God; the mind is as of an individual taking hold upon both materiality and spirituality. The choice is in the hands of the individual. Use thy talents well.

Reading 2787-1

We find in Jupiter the universal consciousness. Notice its position, though, in thy awareness. Move it toward the front, rather than toward the end. For, first in spirit, then in mind, then is the materialization. For, mind is the builder; even as ye find thy body, thy mind, thy soul the three-dimensional experience of an individual that become comparable with the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The Son is the Mind. He is the way. So the mind of self is the way.

Reading 2788-1

The entity seeks to know first causes. Remember, these arise from spiritual concepts. For, it is first in spirit, then in mind, then the material manifestation; whether this is association with individuals or things, or whether it has to do with universal activity as in the nature of things. For, it is the purpose with which individual man makes application to the things about him, that brings about the physical or material result. “With what spirit, with what purpose, do ye these things?”

Reading 2801-1

Now, in the physical, mental and spiritual forces in this body, which complete the entity at this time, we have a good manifestation of the entity in a psychological understanding and manifestation of the psychology of an entity, for we find the mental rules in this entity, as it should in the earth plane, and the physical is under subjugation of the mental proclivities of the entity. That is, we have in this entity one well rounded to a completion of the forces in the earth plane, for there is much spiritual understanding with the mental forces, and the entity needs only to keep all the forces well rounded in that straight and narrow way that leads to the perfect understanding.

As to the physical conditions, we find in the present forces these are very good in many respects. There are some conditions that the body needs from the physical, from the mental, from the spiritual aspect, to be wary of, for the soul, spirit and the physical must ever remember the physical body, the material body, is but the temple through which the mental forces, with the will, builds to that I AM that must ever live, and without the perfect balanced forces the best cannot be given or manifested through the present entity’s forces.

Reading 2813-1

First, know thy ideals—physical, mental and spiritual. And know the physical result is first conceived in spirit, acted upon by mind, and then manifested in the material—with what spirit ye entertain.

Reading 2900-2

Know thy ideal spiritually, the application of same mentally, and ye will find the material things will come in their own way and time.

For, in the material world the spiritual concept is the basis of the trend, or of the mind; and from same arises the material results. When such relationship, or when any relationship is altered otherwise, it may become a stumblingstone rather than a steppingstone for unfoldment.

Reading 2995-3

Know, then, that these also apply to the entity concerning same: The body, mind and soul of the entity are one. They are represented here as a physical body—very good in many respects. A very analytical mind, but as indicated, one who tends to draw judgements rather severely. Know that there are laws pertaining to such in mind as well as in spiritual and in material. For whatever there may be is first conceived in spirit. It is acted upon by mind. Dependent, then, upon what the mind of the entity holds as its ideal, or as to what form or manner it would give give by and through what spirit it would build in its mental self.

Reading 3053-3

Many stress spirituality when the mind is used as the measuring stick. Many stress physical manifestation when mind is used as the measuring stick. Many interpret spiritual things and attempt to use physical activity as the measuring stick. Many attempt to interpret spiritual things, using the mind as the measuring stick. But each phase of thine own experience should be interpreted in its proper sphere of activity, so that when ye interpret thy music, thy love, thy friendships, thy associations, thy activities with others, it will be in the proper sphere according to thy whole purpose in the earth—to glorify thy Maker; if there would be the full interpretation of “The Lord thy God is one” and “Thou shalt love thy brother as thyself.” O that men would find, there is nothing mentioned here about the physical or the mind, but the spiritual attitude one takes in self respecting such!

Reading 3064-1

When the Appliance is used, do use the period for meditation upon spiritual things; knowing that all healing, all correcting of the spiritual and of the mental life must come from the divine within, and the results in the physical being will be in keeping with that which is developed in the spiritual self.

Reading 3083-1

Yet, learn the lesson: that physical must be met in the physical, that mental must be met in the mental, and that spiritual is the directing force—but Mind is the Builder.

Reading 3132-1

The material is of the earth-earthy. The spiritual is of the heavenly or the motivative forces. The mental is ever the builder.

That as would be manifested must first be in spirit, then in mind, then in material activity. For, this is the evolution of the earth, the evolution of things, the evolution of ideas and of ideals. For, He came into the earth that through Him man might have access again to the grace and mercy of those spiritual forces that are the directing ideals of each soul-entity.

Reading 3184-1

Then, these are the things the entity should analyze the more in self—as will be seen from the periods of expression in the earth—as to what are the promptings of the individual’s urges. For each individual finds the motivative influence of its life within its own self, and that is correct—as was stated of old by the lawgiver; Think not as to who will descend from heaven to give a message or who would come from over the sea that ye might learn and understand. For lo it is within thine own heart, thine own mind. Thy body is indeed the temple of the living God. He has promised to meet thee and, know that all in the mental, all in the material, has its inception, it conception, in spirit, in purpose, in hope, in desire. Know thy relationship, then, first, with that ye hope for. For life (or God), immortality of the soul, is real; as may be seen from thine own urges—if ye analyze them correctly.

Reading 3190-2

Q: In what way can the body control the physical through the mental?

A: The mental ever controls the physical, when guided in those channels that gives the awakening in the physical of the Divine in self. In that channel may the body guide the physical through the mental, for ever will we find that the “spirit beareth witness with My Spirit,” as to the control to make the mental, the physical, the spiritual in the body One with that force giving the life in the body.

Reading 3198-3

What is manifested in the material affairs or activities of the entity is first perceived or conceived in the spiritual imports of the entity. These are cultivated or entertained in the mental and thus physical results are evidenced.

Reading 3241-1

Q: What spiritual qualities should be stressed?

A: Know that all that is in material manifestation is first of spirit; then by mind (the builder) is brought into realization. Then by the power of the might that is in Him and in His promise, keep that faith which has been indicated for the entity.

Reading 3308-1

Thus in the dedicating of thy mind, of thy body, may the soul express—through the activities of mind and body—that which is in keeping with that the Master gave—“If ye love Me, keep My commandments, and I—and the Father—will come and abide with thee.” These are not merely symbols, signs or tenets, but may be made practical in the lives of individuals that ye may instruct day by day; not by any set form. For, if the Lord is one, He is in the storm as in the stillness, in the stars as in the sand in activity. For life itself is the manifestation of the oneness of the Father manifested in the Son, who came to give life and it—life more abundantly. For, He is the life, the resurrection, the way. These ye should teach, these ye should practice in thy conversation, in thy daily dealings with thy fellow man.

Reading 3333-1

Q: How can I know I am in the right work and be contented with it?

A: “My spirit beareth witness with thy spirit.” Not only is this applicable in spirit but in mind and in body. For, know, the Lord is one. All that becomes active in the mind is first in spirit. Then in mind does it grow. Then it materiality does it take shape.

Reading 3350-1

Thus innately the entity is ever desiring to try something new. This is well, provided the basis of such is builded upon truth. For truth in any clime is ever the same—it is law. And love is law, law is love. Love is God, God is Love. It is the universal consciousness, the desire for harmonious expressions for the good of all, that is the heritage in man, if there is the acceptance of the way and manner such may be applied, first in the spiritual purpose and then in the mental application, and the material success will be pleasing to any.

Reading 3351-1

Know that of such, yea of people, would be known that faults and successes do not come from thought. Thought is the builder, but spirit is the motivating force. What spirit do you entertain? If it be of God, it can not fail, if it be of self or the devil a failure may be in the offing, dependent upon the measure with which ye mete same—as through the experience of the entity as Marcelle Ney.

Reading 3359-1

Find that, and ye will begin then with the correct attitude. For, that we find in spirit taketh form in mind. Mind becomes the builder. The physical body is the result.

Reading 3376-2

But what is thy yardstick of ideals? All that is material once existed in spirit, or the soul of the entity. Mind becomes the builder, the physical becomes the result. It depends, then, upon the materials—or the spirit with which one is prompted.

Reading 3394-2

In Jupiter an ennobling influence has made the entity ever mindful of the need of a universal consciousness towards the follow man, even for material gains in the earth. There needs to be a warning that there be the more application for the spiritual needs, the spirit of the law of love and of friendship, rather than the letter of the law. For those who would have friends or who would succeed materially must begin with the spirit that is entertained. If the spirit is for self or is of a selfish nature, or one of spite or greed, it must eventually turn upon thee.

Reading 3424-1

Also in Jupiter we find the interest in morality, religion, good living, personality. These shall all be approached, to be sure, from individuality; and the basis of the individuality of an entity must come from its ideal spiritually. For all is born first in spirit, then in mind, then it may become manifested in the material plane. For God moved and the heavens and the earth came into being. God is spirit. Man with his soul, that may be a companion to the Creative Forces, is of that same source. Thus to grow in grace and knowledge, one applies, one has, one uses one’s spiritual self. And with what spirit we apply, we grow also in mind and in body.

Reading 3463-1

Astrologically we find urges from Mercury, Saturn, Mars, Uranus. These bring the high mental abilities. In Saturn there is ofttimes not the consideration of others nor the sources from which all good must arise. For it can only come from one source, and it is not material alone. The material is merely the result. It must be builded in spiritual purposes. It must be builded according to the spirit with which a soul-entity is entertained or moved.

Reading 3481-1

Individuals can become too zealous or too active without consideration of the physical, mental and spiritual. True, all influences are first spiritual; but the mind is the builder and the body is the result. Spiritualizing the body without the mind being wholly spiritualized may bring such results as we find indicated here, so as to raise even the kundaline forces in the body without their giving full expression.

Reading 3513-1

For that which occurs in physical or in mind is first prompted in spirit, and thus are the activities of the entity correlated one to another, not only in this experience but throughout the consciousness of the entity in the various spheres or varied periods of material activity with a physical consciousness.

Reading 3541-1

But first we would give these: Know that all that comes into materialization or into physical being is first patterned in mind and in spirit. Mind is the builder, and your purpose is dependent upon what spirit—or what mortar, what water—those things that go to make materiality active in the earth—you use, as to what is the character of the body mind or structure that ye, as an entity, create.

Reading 3582-2

For as the entity realizes, there is little or nothing that happens by chance, but ever after a pattern, a law. And that the entity may build in the mind from the spiritual, that it accepts as its director alters results that may be had in the experience of the individual—in the same measure as was asked “Master, who sinned—this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”

Reading 3590-2

The spiritual self is life, the activity of the mental and of the physical is of the soul—and thus a soul-body.

Reading 3611-1

The entity must learn that this must be as much in the mental, or more. For the physical is the result of the spiritual ideals, and the mind as the builder brings those results. True, the body must at times have its discipline, but this is rather of mind and spirit as well as physical discipline.

Reading 3639-1

Then, the entity should become well founded in relationship with Creative Forces. For any activity begins first in spirit, then in mind, and then in the material world. And mind is the builder. It is that which builds for whatever may be the contributing factor from the abilities of individuals, as well as self’s application in same.

Reading 3704-1

Q: What is the purpose of this life on earth for me?

A: As indicated, in applying self in greater welfare activities for others, and in the preparation of and in building the home. First it must be spiritual, then it must be mental and then it may be in the physical.

Reading 3902-2

As urges latent and manifested, many are the manifestations in the consciousness and in the urges of the entity indicating unusual abilities to manifest in a material world. From the urges, from sojourns during the interims we find Mercury, Mars, Venus, Jupiter. No better array might be set, and yet—as in spirit, so in mind—these must be attuned, used, applied. For though there may be purpose, ability, strength, without being used it is nil and of none effect.

Reading 3975-1

Yes, we have the body here. We find there are abnormal conditions in this body, [3975] we are speaking of. These have more to do with specific causes in the physical. Keep in touch with this here if you would get this. The conditions as we have given here have more to do in the physical body than we have to do with that between the spirit and soul or mental force in the body here for there are in the physical body the material change or difference that must be brought about to make the whole body work in accord and create a perfect equilibrium throughout the whole system in this body. If we would correct the condition so that the whole life giving force or fluids in the body have their course in their proper accord throughout the system and could give to all the portions of this body the life giving forces then we will find that the rejuvenation of all forces of the body will be brought to normal and that we have the physical forces with the mental and divine forces all carried out throughout their whole forces in the body and bring the mental and spirit forces to a development to better understanding of itself. The physical force in this system has been brought into this body that it may learn and develop more through the mental and spiritual forces that it is to carry on with these from time to time. This it must understand in self.

Reading 4035-1

We find in Mars the very decided points or ideas or stands that the entity may take on subjects; but as warned concerning the experience before this as a critic, if you criticize then you may expect to be criticized yourself. For the law of the Lord is perfect and it is as applicable in man as in the universe, as in nature, as in the realms of spirit itself. For the first principle is that the Lord, the God of the universe is one. What is effective or active in spirit (where it forms first) must be active and must influence the imaginative influences of an individual entity. For the entity finds itself a body, a mind, a soul—three; or the earth consciousness as a three-dimensional plane in one.

Reading 4041-1

Know these as facts: That which is manifested physically or mentally has its concept or urge arising from the spiritual aspects of the entity, or the spirit, the purpose, the sources, the urges entertained by the entity. If such purposes and ideals or urges are of and through creative forces, then the mental (as the builder) may become constructive or creative. Then the physical or final manifestation will be good. That the changes may come doesn’t necessarily indicate that the spiritual urge is in error but that the manner or way of application in the mental may be in the wrong direction.

Reading 4143-1

In the mental we find those abilities to mete out much that may be helpful to others in their understanding their relationships with their fellow man, as well as their relationship with the spiritual influences that may be manifest in the material plane. Materially, we find spiritual forces are the life, the background, the basis for all activity; the mental is the builder; the physical is the result that accrues from such activity in the material or in the carnal plane.

Reading 4405-1

In the physical forces, keep fit—keep the mental attuned properly, and the spiritual life will guide in all things! Oft is it considered by individuals that the spiritual life and mental life are things apart. They must be one—they are one, even though individuals attempt to separate. The spirit is the life, the motive force, that behind all life itself, and the mind-physical and the mind of the soul—or that spirit force itself—is guiding, directing—not always guarding, but may be trained in that direction. Hence, seek that of the spiritual within self first, and all these things of earthly nature will be added in their proper place, their proper association, their proper connections.

Reading 4609-1

In the urge in conditions existent in the present physical relations with the universal forces, we may find much with this entity worthy of study by those who hold to tenets respecting continuity of life and its relation with the varied appearances of an entity through the experiences in the earth’s plane; for to the physiognomist there is presented that, in the mental and physical being of the entity or body present, which would be proof positive of that law given as concerning how that life manifested in the earth plane is first the life spiritual, the life mental, the physical a result of that builded and coming in manifested form irrespective of that that has been often misapplied or misdirected towards environmental or hereditary conditions; for we find the lives of those whom this entity’s being in the present plane manifested through were in accord with that same law, and brought into being that which—through the existent conditions of environmental nature—presented the channel for that manifested life as builded by the individual entity, and the entity sought that channel for its manifestation in the earth’s plane at that stage of its development, or—as man would physically call it—at that time.

Reading 4722-1

Q: Any spiritual advice for the body?

A: Awaken that within self to the abilities, to the qualities that the body may experience through the activity of the spiritual forces within self, that will give the reactions and make the effects as may be created in the physical; for the spiritual is the life, the mental is the builder, and the physical or material is the result.

Reading 4866-2

As has been outlined, this also must be taken into consideration, as the body seeks for those developments in self from the mental and material conditions in the affairs of self—that as self sets as its ideal. What it would work toward must have a great deal to do with what may be called an entirely successful operation, an entirely successful development for the body; for what the body sets as its ideal, whether that which is wholly of the material or that which is a well balanced spiritual, mental and material condition, will be those developments; for the activity—whether of wholly material conditions, mental conditions, or of spiritual conditions—is the spirit with which an entity, a body, goes about its activity. If the life is to become wholly mechanical, or wholly material minded, then only the material will be the natural result, and this will not bring contentment—nor will it satisfy. If the ideal will be set as a well balanced self, knowing that the spirit, the life—that is, the spirit is the life, the mental attitude is the development or the builder, then the results will be in that comparison as to the activity that is given in respect to these attitudes.

Reading 5001-1

These are problems you are meeting in self in the present. For ye had the same companion through that experience. Thus let that of duty from the spiritual self be the guiding influence. For the entity finds self with a body which it can get along with very well! It can use its own judgments, its own appetites, its own activities. The mind becomes something else! and these influences should be governed by spiritual import, spiritual purpose. Know that what is first conceived is in spirit. In mind does it grow to an activity which becomes either creative or self-satisfying, self-gratifying.

Reading 5118-1

Before this the entity was in the land of the present sojourn. Hence those attractions that have brought the entity to the present environs. For the entity is a “sensitive”, as indicated in the manner in which it studies the anatomical structure, as well as the mind structure. Not enough stress is put on the spiritual, for the sources. For, what comes in mind, in materiality, must first have been created in the spirit. For the earth was first without form and void. So is mind, or matter. It is first a desire, a consciousness, a fluid, a gas. It is united, it becomes, as it were, as a “feeling” for. So may the entity in itself find the same. These are of particular interest to the entity.

Reading 5502-3

Q: What can [257] further do in his daily life to show himself more approved unto the Giver of these gifts?

A: Study to show thyself approved unto God, avoiding the appearances of evil, knowing that as the acts of thine going-ins and coming-outs [are] that reflection of the God ye would serve. If that God be money, power, position, fame, these must reflect in the lives and the life of the acts of self. Will those forces as were made manifest as of old when Abraham [was] called to go out to make a peculiar people, a different nation, so again may the body hear that called as when offering in the temple that “Mine people have wandered astray”, yet in the little here, the word there, the precept and example, may they again know Jehovah in His Holy Place.

Necessary that each individual have their own problems given that attention as seemeth to them necessary, but as and when ones [are] well-grounded in the truths of the universe that may know through that given them that the spirit is life, the spirit of service is strength, and [that it] aids in every condition in man’s experience.

Reading 5534-1

Q: What will his attitude be when he returns?

A: In answer to that as is desired in self; for desire is of a threefold nature, and that builded in self finds its response in another, and as there is the sincere desire to build in the mental being of any in which such relationships have existed, as in this condition, that will be builded—for life, in all its phases, is of the threefold nature. Spirit is willing; mind is the builder; the result is that manifested in the material conditions as surround a body. That attitude, then, will be that as has been builded, as has been desired in self as related to another.

Reading 5642-3

We have the body here—we have had this before, you see. Now we find there are improvements in the physical forces of this body since last we had same here. There are many conditions to be considered respecting those conditions that exist in the physical being of the body, and while there arise from time to time those elements that are of a disturbing and discouraging nature to the body, these [the epilepsy attacks] will of necessity have to be by the body put in the background and not allow these conditions—because they do occur occasionally—to gain control over the mental body; for while physical conditions are reacting to the mental being, the mental body is the builder. The physical is the result, and the spiritual will build that as is builded in the mental being, and a physical result is then amenable to outside influences that are mental, material, and physical. Hence there are being applied in the physical being of this body those conditions that, while these are material—and while the mental body is in the condition of being disturbed, this gives rise to those conditions of discouragement. This must have the outside influence to give the proper incentive in a correlated effect or correlated manner to this body, so that the whole physical reaction will be in keeping with that as the mental being would have the body be. Then, be consistent—persistent—in the spiritual, mental and physical application of all those conditions that apply to the physical body, to the material body, to the mental body, and the spiritual will guide and lead aright. For we are one in Him, and ourselves may only get in the way of a full development. Then keep those, as yet, as have been given, and be patient in well-doing. Do not be overcome, but overcome evil with good. Materially, mentally, physically, apply this in the body. Do that.

Reading 5642-4

Keep the inhalant; also keep the manipulations as often as is convenient for the body to do so. Keep in the open. Do not overtax the mind, but keep sufficient physical exercise to keep proper coordination, and we will find the near normal conditions will yet come to this body. Keep the mental in attunement to the spiritual side of life, and remember that the spiritual will build that, that the mental will attune itself for a physical or materialization in the flesh; for the spiritual forces are the same one day after another, and unto the end.

Reading 5680-1

In the spiritual development of self: These are as the greater forces that come to everyone, for, as is seen, while the body physical presents as a unit a oneness, yet same is made up of the spiritual, the mental and the physical. The spiritual the creator, the mental the builder, the material—that of the result of a life, a thought, a deed; for thoughts are deeds and may be miracles or crimes in their execution and the end thereof.

Reading 5735-1

That, Life is in that way of continuity; and Life is all; and no one portion of Life is the whole; for Life is that given of the spirit; and the Soul is as the individual. The mental—whether that of a sensuous consciousness or of the super, or the objective consciousness—is the Builder; and that builded, whether in the physical or soul body, is the Result.

8

Life Beyond Earth

Editor’s Note: As much as we identify with planet Earth and our terrestrial life here, Edgar Cayce’s reading of the Akashic Records and the Universal Consciousness tells a different story. From Cayce’s perspective, we were, are, and will be again celestial beings, traversing the vast expanse of space. Our primal mission is to know ourselves and our Creator. Cayce often began readings for individuals by identifying their planetary and stellar influences, explaining that these were influences because of the soul’s journeys through those dimensions. Before and after incarnating into this world and physical life, the soul experiences dimensions beyond the earth plane.

I’ve edited the following reading for clarity and focus on the topic:

Reading 311-2

As an entity passes on from this present time or this solar system, this sun, these forces, it passes through the various spheres—on and on through the eons of time or space—leading first into that central force known as Arcturus—nearer the Pleiades. Eventually, an entity passes into the inner forces, inner sense, then they may again—after a period of nearly ten thousand years—enter into the earth to make manifest those forces gained in its passage. In entering, the entity takes on those forms that may be known in the dimensions of that plane which it occupies, there being not only three dimensions as of the earth but there may be seven as in Mercury, or four in Venus, or five in Jupiter. There may be only one as in Mars. There may be many more as in those of Neptune, or they may become even as nil—until purified in Saturn’s fires.

Reading 136-8

As the entity moves from sphere to sphere, it seeks its way to the home, to the face of the Creator, the Father, the first cause.

Reading 136-83

... self is lost in that of attaining for itself the nearer and nearer approach that builds in manifested form, whether in the Pleiades, Arcturus, Gemini, or in Earth, in Arcturus, Vulcan, or in Neptune.... as light, a ray that does not end, lives on and on, until it becomes one in essence with the source of light.”

Editor’s Note: One of the most fascinating concepts to come through Edgar Cayce’s discourses were his teachings about soul activity in dimensions related to the other planets in this star system, between Earth incarnations, and how these affect our present lives. Here are some of these discourses.

The following is an example of a complete reading document.

Text of Reading 5755-1

This psychic reading given by Edgar Cayce at his office of the Association for Research and Enlightenment, Inc., Virginia Beach, Va., at the Seventh Annual Congress of the A.R.E., this 27th day of June, 1938, in pursuant to request made by those present.

PRESENT

Edgar Cayce; Gertrude Cayce, Conductor; Gladys Davis, Steno. Hugh Lynn Cayce, Gladys & Chas. Dillman from Youngstown, O., Maud M. Lewis from Greenville, Ala., Anna E. Hendley & Edna B. Harrell from D.C., Lillian McLaughlin, Gladys & Thos. Jenkins, Reginia Dunn, Florence Evylinn Campbell, Mary A. Miller, Alice M. Eddy, Irene Harrison, Louise Chisholm, Henry Hardwicke, Jennie Moore and Leslie Savage from N.Y., Mabel M. Applewhite from Newport News, Va., Frances Y. Morrow, Edith & Florence Edmonds, Hannah Miller, Ruth LeNoir, Helen Ellington, Margaret Wilkins, Esther Wynne, Abbie Kemp & Malcolm H. Allen from Norfolk, Va. & Helen Williams, Louise Tatum, Mara Edmonstone, Mrs. R.G. Barr, Mrs. W.T. Sawyer, Grace & Geo. Ross from Virginia Beach.

READING

Time of Reading 3:35 to 4:20 P. M.

GC: In all Life Readings given through this channel there are references to sojourns of the soul-entity between incarnations on the earth plane, in various planes of consciousness represented by the other planets in our solar system. You will give at this time a discourse which will explain what takes place in soul development in each of these states of consciousness in their order relative to the evolution of the soul; explaining what laws govern this movement from plane to plane, their influence on life in this earth plane and what if any relationship these planes have to astrology. Questions.

EC: Yes, we have the information and sources from which same may be obtained as to individual experiences, sojourns and their influence.

As we find, in attempting to give a coherent explanation of that as may be sought, or as may be made applicable in the experience of individuals who seek to apply such information, it is well that an individual soul-entity, the record of whose astrological and earthly sojourns you have, be used as an example.

Then a comparison may be drawn for those who would judge same from the astrological aspects, as well as from the astrological or planetary sojourns of such individuals.

What better example may be used, then, than this entity with whom you are dealing [EC? Case 294]

Rather than the aspects of the material sojourn, then, we would give them from the astrological:

From an astrological aspect, then, the greater influence at the entrance of this entity that ye call Cayce was from Uranus. Here we find the extremes. The sojourn in Uranus was arrived at from what type of experience or activity of the entity? As Bainbridge, the entity in the material sojourn was a wastrel, one who considered only self; having to know the extremes in the own experience as well as others. Hence the entity was drawn to that environ. Or, how did the Master put it? “As the tree falls, so does it lie.” [Eccl. 11:3 by Solomon. Where did Jesus say it?] Then in the Uranian sojourn there are the influences from the astrological aspects of extremes; and counted in thy own days from the very position of that attunement, that tone, that color. For it is not strange that music, color, vibration are all a part of the planets, just as the planets are a part—and a pattern—of the whole universe. Hence to that attunement which it had merited, which it had meted in itself, was the entity drawn for the experience. What form, what shape?

The birth of the entity into Uranus was not from the earth into Uranus, but from those stages of consciousness through which each entity or soul passes. It passes into oblivion as it were, save for its consciousness that there is a way, there is a light, there is an understanding, there have been failures and there are needs for help. Then help consciously is sought!

Hence the entity passes along those stages that some have seen as planes, some have seen as steps, some have seen as cycles, and some have experienced as places.

How far? How far is tomorrow to any soul? How far is yesterday from thy consciousness?

You are in same (that is, all time as one time), yet become gradually aware of it; passing through, then, as it were, God’s record or book of consciousness or of remembrance; for meeting, being measured out as it were to that to which thou hast attained.

Who hath sought? Who hath understood?

Only they that seek shall find!

Then, born in what body? That as befits that plane of consciousness; the extremes, as ye would term same.

As to what body—what has thou abused? What hast thou used? What hast thou applied? What has thou neglected in thy extremes, thy extremities?

These are consciousnesses, these are bodies.

To give them form or shape—you have no word, you have no form in a three-dimensional world or plane of consciousness to give it to one in the seventh—have you?

Hence that’s the form—we might say—“Have You?”

What is the form of this in thy consciousness? It rather indicates that everyone is questioned, “Have you?—Have You?”

That might be called the form. It is that which is thy concept of that being asked thyself—not that ye have formed of another.

With that sojourn then the entity finds need for, as it were, the giving expression of same again (the answering of “Have You?”) in that sphere of consciousness in which there is a way in and through which one may become aware of the experience, the expression and the manifesting of same in a three-dimensional plane.

Hence the entity was born into the earth under what signs? Pisces, ye say. Yet astrologically from the records, these are some two signs off in thy reckoning.

Then from what is the influence drawn? Not merely because Pisces is accredited with an influence of such a nature, but because it is! And the “Have You” becomes then “There Is” or “I Am” in materiality or flesh, or material forces—even as He who has passed this way!

The entity as Bainbridge was born in the English land under the sign, as ye would term, of Scorpio; or from Venus as the second influence.

We find that the activity of the same entity in the earthly experience before that, in a French sojourn, followed the entrance into Venus.

What was the life there? How the application?

A child of love! A child of love—the most hopeful of all experiences of any that may come into a material existence; and to some in the earth that most dreaded, that most feared!

These side remarks become more overburdening than what you are trying to obtain! but you’ve opened a big subject, haven’t you?)

In Venus the body-form is near to that in the three dimensional plane. For it is what may be said to be rather all-inclusive! For it is that ye would call love—which, to be sure, may be licentious, selfish; which also may be so large, so inclusive as to take on the less of self and more of the ideal, more of that which is giving.

What is love? Then what is Venus? It is beauty, love, hope, charity—yet all of these have their extremes. But these extremes are not in the expressive nature or manner as may be found in that tone or attunement of Uranus; for they (in Venus) are more in the order that they blend as one with another.

So the entity passed through that experience, and on entering into materiality abused same; as the wastrel who sought those expressions of same in the loveliness for self alone, without giving—giving of self in return for same.

Hence we find the influences wielded in the sojourn of the entity from the astrological aspects or emotions of the mental nature are the ruling, yet must be governed by a standard.

And when self is the standard, it becomes very distorted in materiality.

Before that we find the influence was drawn for a universality of activity from Jupiter; in those experiences of the entity’s sojourn or activity as the minister or teacher in Lucius. For the entity gave for the gospel’s sake, a love, an activity and a hope through things that had become as of a universal nature.

Yet coming into the Roman influence from the earthly sojourn in Troy, we find that the entity through the Jupiterian environment was trained—as we understand—by being tempered to give self from the very universality, the very bigness of those activities in Jupiter.

For the sojourn in Troy was as the soldier, the carrying out of the order given, with a claim for activities pertaining to world affairs—a spreading.

What form, ye ask, did he take? That which may be described as in the circle with the dot, in which there is the turning within ever if ye will know the answer to thy problems; no matter in what stage of thy consciousness ye may be. For “Lo, I meet thee within thy holy temple,” is the promise.

And the pattern is ever, “have you?” In other words, have you love? or the circle within, and not for self? but that He that giveth power, that meeteth within, many be magnified?

Have you rather abased self that the glory may be magnified that thou didst have with Him before the worlds were, before a division of consciousness came?

These become as it were a part of thy experiences, then, through the astrological sojourns or environs from which all take their turn, their attunement.

And we find that the experience of the entity before that, as Uhjltd, was from even without the sphere of thine own orb; for the entity came from those centers about which thine own solar system moves—in Arcturus.

For there had come from those activities, in Uhjltd, the knowledge of the oneness, and of those forces and powers that would set as it were the universality of its relationships, through its unity of purpose in all spheres of human experience; by the entity becoming how? Not aliens, then—not bastards before the Lord—but sons—co-heirs with Him in the Father’s kingdom.

Yet the quick return to the earthly sojourn in Troy, and the abuse of these, the turning of these for self—in the activities attempted—brought about the changes that were wrought.

But the entrance into the Ra Ta experience, when there was the journeying from materiality—or the being translated in materiality as Ra Ta—was from the infinity forces, or from the Sun; with those influences that draw upon the planet itself, the earth and all those about same.

Is it any wonder that in the ignorance of the earth the activities of that entity were turned into that influence called the sun worshippers? This was because of the abilities of its influences in the experiences of each individual, and the effect upon those things of the earth in nature itself; because of the atmosphere, the forces as they take form from the vapors created even by same; and the very natures or influences upon vegetation!

The very natures or influences from the elemental forces themselves were drawn in those activities of the elements within the earth, that could give off their vibrations because of the influences that attracted or draw away from one another.

This was produced by that which had come into the experiences in materiality, or into being, as the very nature of water with the sun’s rays; or the ruler of thy own little solar system, thy own little nature in the form ye may see in the earth!

Hence we find how, as ye draw your patterns from these, that they become a part of the whole. For ye are relatively related to all that ye have contacted in materiality, mentality, spirituality! All of these are a portion of thyself in the material plane.

In taking form they become a mental body with its longings for its home, with right and righteousness.

Then that ye know as thy mental self is the form taken, with all of its variations as combined from the things it has been within, without, and in relationship to the activities in materiality as well as in the spheres or various consciousness of “Have you—love, the circle, the Son?”

These become then as the signs of the entity, and ye may draw these from the pattern which has been set. Just as the desert experience, the lines drawn in the temple as represented by the pyramid, the sun, the water, the well, the sea and the ships upon same—because of the very nature of expression—become the pattern of the entity in this material plane.

Draw ye then from that which has been shown ye by the paralleling of thy own experiences in the earth. For they each take their form, their symbol, their sound, their color, their stone. For they all bear a relationship one to another, according to what they have done about, “The Lord is in his holy temple, let all the earth keep silent!”

He that would know his own way, his own relationships to Creative Forces or God, may seek through the promises in Him; as set in Jesus of Nazareth—He passeth by! Will ye have Him enter and sup with thee?

Open then thy heart, thy consciousness, for he would tarry with thee!

We are through.

Reading 1895-1

The experiences of the entity in the interims of planetary sojourns between the earthly manifestations become the innate mental urges, that may or may not at times be a part of the day dreaming, or the thought and meditation of the inmost self.

Hence we find astrological aspects and influence in the experience, but rather because of the entity’s sojourn in the environ than because of a certain star, constellation or even zodiacal sign being in such and such a position at the time of birth.

Know that man—as has been expressed—was given dominion over all, and in the understanding of same may use all of the laws as pertaining to same for his benefit.

In the application of same as a benefit—if it is for self-indulgence or self-expression alone, it loses its own individuality in the personality of that sought or desired; and thus the very knowledge may be used as a stumbling-stone. But if each experience is as a manifestation to the glory of a creative or heavenly force, or that which is continual thus the judgements being drawn from an ideal that is spiritual in its concept, then there is the greater growth, the greater harmony—for there becomes an at-onement with the influences about same.

Reading 281-55

Q: Through other planetary sojourns an entity has the opportunity to change its rate of vibration so as to be attracted in the earth plane under another soul number.

A: Each planetary influence vibrates at a different rate of vibration. An entity entering that influence enters that vibration; not necessary that he change, but it is the grace of God that he may! It is part of the universal consciousness, the universal law.

Reading 1947-1

In giving the urges, then, we find that the astrological influences are not so much because of the certain position of the Sun or the Moon or the Stars, but because of their relationship which is a relativity of influence or force; for, being from the body or materialization, there is the activity of the soul in the environs in which certain influences have been and are accredited to the activities from those planetary sojourns. Thus they become as signs, omens in the experience.

Reading 2599-1

In giving the interpretations of the records as we find them here, these are chosen with the desire and purpose that this be a helpful experience for the entity; enabling it to better fulfill that purpose for which it entered this experience.

Know that one’s manifestations in the earth are not by chance but a fulfillment of those purposes the Creative Forces have with each individual entity.

For, the Creative Influence is mindful ever, and hath not willed that any soul should perish, but hath with every temptation prepared a way, a means of escape.

Thus the very fact of a material manifestation should become an awareness to the individual entity of the mindfulness of that influence of Creative Energy in the experience.

Then, as to the abilities with this entity—magnify the virtues, minimize the faults—not only in thy judgments of others. For with what judgment ye mete, it will be meted to thee again.

Thus the purpose of each experience is that the entity may magnify and glorify that which is good. For, good is of the one source, God, and is eternal.

Then as an individual entity magnifies that which is good, and minimizes that which is false, it grows in grace, in knowledge, in understanding.

Know that in the manner ye mete, or do to thy fellow man, so ye do unto thy Maker.

Then let it be from this premise that the judgments and the activities of this entity in this material experience may be drawn as a helpful force in its journey through this particular sojourn.

From the sources of the previous sojourns we find urges arising materially in the experience of the entity—that is, from the previous earthly sojourns as well as the astrological sojourns during the interims between earthly manifestations.

Not that there are influences from the position of stars, planets or the like that may not be met; but these are as urges—just as the environs of an individual in the material plane produce urges, because of studies or activities in a given direction, and because certain material abilities are innately a part of the entity’s experience. Yet urges oft arise in the experience of an entity for this or that, the source of which the entity itself may not understand or comprehend—for no one in the family thought or acted in that direction.

Then, this—the environ of the entity, the soul manifesting in the earth—may be called by another name, as with this entity—a part of the present name in the experience before this; and the abilities as an individual to meet others, to influence them in the activities in which certain interests might be magnified, come from the entity’s activities in the previous sojourn.

Thus the earthly sojourns make for manifested urges in the present experience. Also those planetary sojourns, in this present solar system, make for urges that are accredited to those particular planets as states of consciousness—that become innately manifested in the present entity.

For instance, in this entity we find the manifestation of Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Uranus—manifested and latent in the dreams, the visions, the activities; in the high mental abilities of the entity, the ability to reason things through, the stableness of its activity in using not only material but mental forces as an influence to urge others to buy or to be interested in, or to analyze conditions.

Thus in the present, and manifestedly so, the entity might find the abilities as an adjuster, or as an individual to give expression as to evaluation of materials or properties, or abilities of individuals.

In Venus we find that appreciation of the beautiful, as related to art, as related to things, as related to conditions in the relationships of groups of peoples one to another.

Also from Jupiter we find the association with groups, masses, as a reflection in the activities of abilities, and that in which the entity may apply itself in the present experience.

Uranus brings the extremes, in which the entity may rise to great heights of expectation and yet at times find self in a wonderment. Yet innately there are those expectancies in spiritual facts, in the occult, in the psychic forces, that are powers of might for either good or evil. For, as indicated, in Uranus there are the extremes.

Know, as from the first premise, that no influence surpasses the will of an individual. The power of will is that birthright as the gift from the Creative Force to each entity, that it may become one with that Influence; knowing itself to be itself yet a part of and one with the Creative Influence as the directing influence in the experience.

Also the earthly sojourns bring urges through the latent faculties of the sensory forces; or they become characteristics that may be indicated—either latent or manifested—as the power or might manifesting; for only as the entity works with or against an influence does it become magnified in the experiences of the entity.

Reading 243-10

In entering, we find, astrologically, the entity coming under the influence of Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Venus, and Neptune. These, as we find, have builded, and have influenced the entity, in the present experience. Also we find urges as respecting the experiences as related to innate urges, and that as has been builded in the present entity.

Aside: Let not this be confusing, as to innate urges and that as is builded in the present experience, for the application of will, and of innate urge through planetary influences, is exercised in this entity as we would find it in few.

In the experience, then, we find these as builded irrespective of will, and those that have been builded as respecting the application of will’s influence; for will is that developing factor with which an entity chooses or builds that freedom, or that of being free, knowing the truth as is applicable in the experience, and in the various experiences as has been builded; for that builded must be met, whether in thought or in deed; for thoughts are deeds, and their current run is through the whole of the influence in an entity’s experience. Hence, as was given, “He that hateth his brother has committed as great a sin as he that slayeth a man,” for the deed is as of an accomplishment in the mental being, which is the builder for every entity.

Much has been met, much as been builded by the entity in the present experience. Much has been experienced by the entity in the various spheres through which the entity has passed.

In that builded, we find one of high, ennobling ideas and ideals; often tempered in Mars, through wrath, that has brought does bring, will bring, many of the experiences that have been experienced in the building of the entity’s inner being to the action within the life.

In those influences in Jupiter, finds for the bigness of the entity’s vision, the broadness of the good or bad that may be wielded in the influence of those whom the entity contacts from time to time, or period to period, or experience to experience.

In those influences seen in those of Neptune, brings for those of that as is of the mystery in the experiences of the entity; the associations in many peculiar circumstances and conditions; the conditions and experiences, and influences, as bring many conditions as, by others, would be misunderstood (and there be minds that would misunderstand, rather than know the truth).

In the experiences there has been innately built, the fear of evil in the life, the fear of those that would bring condemnation on those who are in power, and oft is the entity too good to others for its own good! Through the attempt innate to build that which would be the releasing of those experiences which have been had by the entity.

In those influences seen in Neptune, also brings that water—large bodies of water—the entity will gain most through the experience, has gained and will gain, through sojourn near, or passing over, large bodies of water, and salt water is preferable; for in the experiences will be seen, fresh hasn’t always meant for living water.

In those as builded innately, we find:

One that is in that position of making friends easily, and just as easily losing same; yet there are friendships made that make for the better understanding in the experience, and in those of Venus forces comes the love that is innate in the experience of the entity. Through all the vicissitudes of life this remaineth, for the entity has gained much that makes for that as was given—“There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother,” and “he that is just kind to the least of these, my little ones, is greater than he that hath taken a mighty city.” These building, these kept within the consciousness of the entity, will build to that Christ consciousness as makes all free; for in Him is the life, and He is the light that shineth into the dark places, even to the recesses of that of His own consciousness that makes for that which casteth out fear; (for being afraid is the first consciousness of sin’s entering in, for he that is made afraid has lost consciousness of self’s own heritage with the Son; for we are heirs through Him to that Kingdom that is beyond all that that would make afraid, or that would cause a doubt in the heart of any. Through the recesses of the heart, then, search out that that would make afraid, casting out fear, and He alone may guide.)

Editor’s Note: The group working with Edgar Cayce attempted to develop tests that would help individuals identify their planetary influences and their past-life influences. Cayce said that only the astrological was attainable, given that past lives required reading the Akashic Record of a soul or the soul awakening to its memories of past life. He guided them to use this astrological information for helping to identify one’s vocation. Here’s that reading:

Text of Reading 5753-3

This Psychic Reading given by Edgar Cayce at his home on Arctic Crescent, Virginia Beach, Va., this 25th day of October, 1939, in accordance with request made by Hugh Lynn Cayce, Manager of the Ass’n for Research & Enlightenment, Inc.

PRESENT

Edgar Cayce; Gertrude Cayce, Conductor; Gladys Davis, Steno. Hugh Lynn Cayce.

READING

Time of Reading 11:30 to 11:40 A. M. Eastern Standard Time.

GC: You will have before you the psychic work of Edgar Cayce relative to information from Life Readings concerning vocational guidance; together with the entity, the enquiring mind, Hugh Lynn Cayce, present here, who seeks to correlate and use such information. From a study of the Life Readings it would seem that an individual’s mental and spiritual development, his contentment, is dependent upon releasing and expression of basic mental and emotional urges coming from planetary sojourns and past incarnations. Please give at this time suggestions for the development of a system or a series of intelligence tests which will reveal these basic urges and help an individual in selecting a life’s work. It is hoped that such information as may be given here may be developed and used through scout activities and the Princess Anne Schools. You will answer questions.

EC: Yes, we have the information here, that has been indicated in Life Readings as to vocational guidance for individuals.

In developing a plan, or a manner of seeking ways in which individuals might give expression of the latent faculties and powers from the material sojourns, as well as the planetary influences—here we will find that there are conflicting forces and influences at times—as we have indicated.

The astrological aspects may give a tendency, an inclination; and a systematic, scientific study of same would indicate the vocation. And about eighty percent of the individuals would be in the position of being influenced by such astrological aspects; or would be in the position for their abilities to be indicated from same.

But the other twenty percent would not be in that position, due to the influences from activity or the use of their abilities in material experience. Hence in these it would be not only necessary that their material sojourns be given, but as to what had been accomplished through same, and that to be met in the present experience. For, as has been indicated, no influence—astrologically or from material sojourns—surpasses the will or the determination of the individual. Then, there are material factors that rule or govern or direct or influence such forces. These may be tempered by the astrological aspects, but these are not (the astrological aspects) the major influence or force—the will.

Thus, only about eighty percent of the individuals may have their abilities indicated from the astrological aspects in the direction of vocational guidance, as to be a determining factor for such.

If some five individuals would be taken, and their charts or astrological aspects indicated, and questions asked as to determining the influence or force from same—from such an aspect there might be given information so that a general chart might be indicated for a questionnaire, or a test, or an activity that would be of material benefit in a great number of individuals—but never a perfect score may be indicated. For the will, as well as the factors of environment, have their influence.

Ready for questions.

Q: How can the urges from past incarnations be determined by a test or series of tests?

A: As just indicated—this may only be done by giving the material sojourns of the individual.

But if the astrological aspects and influences are given, then there may be determined a questionnaire from same.

Q: Should the chart be drawn from the geocentric or the heliocentric system?

A: The geocentric system would be the more in keeping with the Persian force or influence.

Q: Any other suggestion to Hugh Lynn Cayce regarding the development of this at this time?

A: As indicated, there may be charts drawn of five individuals, and a questionnaire may be determined for factors in the individual experience—as to what their inclinations or activities are. Not by telling, but by questioning!

Then from same, as indicated, there may be given a more correct or direct questionnaire that would be helpful for a large number of individuals—but not a perfect score.

For in about twenty percent of the populace at the present time, it is dependent upon what the individuals have done with their urges through material sojourns.

As indicated trough this channel, some are in keeping with the astrological charts, others are found to be partially so, others are diametrically opposed to same—because of the activities of the individuals.

We are through for the present.

Editor’s Note: Cayce’s discourses state that all souls were created at the same moment, yet Cayce used the term “old soul” occasionally. He later explained that he meant a soul that has been sojourning in and around Earth for many lifetimes. The following is a reading for an old soul, and this reading has many interesting references to planetary and constellational sojourning.

Text of Reading 436-2 M 28

(Elevator Boy, Christian with East Indian leaning)

This psychic reading given by Edgar Cayce at Lillian Edgerton, Inc., 267 Fifth Ave., N.Y.C., this 10th day of November, 1933, in accordance with request made by self—Mr. [436], Active Member of the Ass’n for Research & Enlightenment, Inc.

PRESENT

Edgar Cayce; Hugh Lynn Cayce, Conductor; Gladys Davis, Steno. Mr. [436].

READING

Born March 29, 1905, (11:30 P.M.) in Midland, Virginia. Time of Reading 3:00 to 3:50 P. M. Eastern Standard Time..., D.C.

(Life Reading Suggestion)

EC: Yes, we have the entity and those relations with the universe and universal forces, that are latent and exhibited in the personalities of the present entity, [436].

It would be well to comment upon the oldness of this soul, especially in its activities—as will be seen—in periods when the occult and mystic influences were manifested in the experience of the entity in the earth; and make for influences that have been (or may be made) very good or very bad in the experience of the entity. Hence, this is an old soul.

In giving the personalities and the individuality of the entity in the present experience, we must approach same from the astrological, though these in the very fact of that given respecting its activities in the earth during such periods when such changes or activities were manifested in the material affairs of individuals, make for little that may be compulsory in astrological influence. Yet impulses arise from these influences.

As in passing from Pisces into Aries, there are those influences innately and manifested in the mental forces of the body; much of both of these, and they become conflicting in the experience at times of the entity.

Pisces brings rather the mystery and creative forces, and magnanimous aspects in students of—or in the thought of—influences in the active principles of individual impulse; with Aries bringing reason, or air, or airy actions, yet reason, more than Pisces would make the demands in the self at time for reasons for every manifestation, whether material conditions, mental or spiritual conditions in the experience of the entity. And at other periods it may be said that the entity becomes rather susceptible to influences about the body, without considering seriously the sources of the information and as to whether same is able to be verified by others or not. Feelings of same impress the entity from this astrological influence, which—as we see—does not only control earth’s sojourn but the position of the entity in this sojourn through the planetary influences in the earth’s solar system.

As to the sojourns in the astrological influences then, we find these are the ruling; not from their position at the birth, but rather from the position of the entity’s activities in that environ.

Mars is an influence rather from the associations then, in self’s own experience. Or when dissensions, distrust, dissatisfaction, madness, wars, arise; these come about the entity rather than influencing the activities of the entity, other than through the associations with individuals that make demands upon the entity and its activities in these directions. These become at times concrete experiences in the entity’s activities in the present experience; yet these, as we find, for many a year now (and these began some three years ago) will be less in the experience until Mars in ’38 or ’39 becomes nearer in its influence upon the sojourners of those in the earth that have experienced a sojourn in that environ.

Hence this may be said, in a manner, to be of little influence then in the period, or during that period, when the entity should make for a stabilization in self’s experience of that to which it may develop its better abilities in this present sojourn in the earth.

From Venus rather a complex position or condition comes to the experience of the entity, where filial or marital or such relations as of loves in the material earth come in the experience. Not that there hasn’t been, nor won’t be, nor isn’t existent, that which is pure, elevating and helpful in the experience of the entity in its relationships with individuals of both sexes in this way and manner; yet these have brought some very pleasant experiences and some very contrary and contradictory influences in the activities and in the experience of the entity in the present.

Hence it may be given in passing, to the entity, that the love of and for a pure body is the most sacred experience in an entity’s earth sojourn; yet these conditions soured, these conditions turned into vitrol, may become the torments of an exemplary body, and one well-meaning, and make for loss of purposes.

Keep the friendships, then. Keep those relationships that are founded upon all that is constructive in earth, in the mind, in the spirit.

As to those influences from the sojourn of the entity in Uranian forces, as may be indicated from that given as to the oldness and as to the delving into the occult and mystic and the application in the experience, the entity has sojourned more than once in this environ and under quite varied or different experiences and manifestations. Hence there are periods when earthly conditions, mental conditions, spiritual conditions, are very good; and others when all are very bad in the experience of the entity in the present. Yet, as we find, in the application of self as related to the impulses that may rise in the consciousness of the entity in the present experience from those impulses received from the sojourns, these may be made the strong fort in the activities of self in the present. But they must be tempered, from the very experiences in the sojourn, to making for not an active force in those experiences from planetary influences in a weak body, but turn to strengthening the body-physical for the manifestations of the correct raising of those vital energies in the material body, through which such influences may make for manifestations and experiences in the earth’s sojourn. These influences from Uranus make for many of the ills that have been in the experience in the body, in the nervous reactions to the physical body, to the weak experiences to the physical body, when the very vital life force of a material body was in danger of being separated from physical for an ethereal sojourn.

As to the appearances, then, and their influence in the present, these are given as the ones influencing the activities of the present body; rather than numbers, we give those that make for the greater activity in the present:

Before this we find the entity was in the land of nativity, and about those places, those peoples, where the first settlings were—and the first sojournings that spread beyond the mere force builded; or about that town that was the first capitol of this new land, or this portion of same. And among the activities there are many of those things being reconstructed, re-enacted, that will be not only of physical interest but will, with the application of the abilities within self, recall to the entity many of the associations that the entity had with the peoples of the land (native). While the entity did not go what is proverbially called “native” in the experience, the associations were such, with those that acted in the capacity of the spiritual leaders (or with what were termed the medicine men of the period), and with those that later attempted to set themselves as leaders of this people, that the entity made friends both with the natives and the colonists, aiding the colonists in the period to establish better relations; in the name then Edward Compton, a distant family name even that may be found among those that sojourned in the peninsula land of that portion of the country.

The entity lost and gained through the experience; gained in the application of self for the benefiting of those with whom the entity sojourned, and the natives also whom the entity aided in making better cooperative relationships in the activities of the people of the period and time. The entity aided in establishing such relationships that there was the trading of the native peoples in distant lands. One particular period of interest, that may be noted in history, was when the entity aided in bringing to the peoples corn from the western portion of their native land, that sustained those peoples through a very bad period.

From that period there is the influence oft in the present in those activities when studies of those peoples are the experience of the entity, and there are both confusing and constructive influences. Yet, when about many of a mediumistic turn, many of those with whom the entity engaged in life and activity would attempt to speak to the entity; especially one that termed himself Big Rock, Black Rock.

Before this we find the entity was during that period when there were the returnings of those peoples in the land now called Greece, from the rebellions that had been active in Mesopotamia and in the regions about what is known as Turkey and those lands; during those periods of Xenophon’s activities and those wars.

The entity was among the few of these natives, strong in body, purposeful in intent, to return to the native land; and the entity gained through the experience but lost in the latter portion of the sojourn when returning to the native land, when power was entrusted in the activities of the entity; and while the purposefulness was correct, there arose those that distrusted and brought contentions by the accusations brought against the entity, in the name Xerxion. Then Xerxion lost in faith in his fellow man, and the faith in the purposefulness of those that were attributing to the gods, or the powers and forces as they were named and termed, the elements to maintain the equilibrium. Hence in that the entity lost, and in the present—while there are those abilities in self to lead for a purposefulness in its activity, too oft has the entity become discouraged when accusations of unkind things were brought, or when experiences made for the losing of confidences in friends and associates it has made discouragements too easily in the experience in the present. This (in passing, may be said) is a test period for the entity in its relationship, particularly. Hence the entity should turn to the abilities within and find self first, knowing in what, in whom the entity has believed; knowing He is able to keep that which is committed unto Him against any experience that may arise in the lives or activities of those who are His loved ones, His chosen. Who has He chosen? They that do His biddings. What are His biddings? Love the Lord thy God with all thine heart (and thy God meaning Him that in Spirit is the Creative Forces of all that is manifested), keeping self unspotted from the world or any smirch of activity, and loving thy neighbor, thy brother, as thine self. These will make for the relieving of all those influences in the experience, and bring harmony, peace, joy, understanding, in the experience of the entity; and will enable the entity to not only study, not only to understand, but—best of all—to comprehend from what source many of those influences arise, as we will see has to do upon the mental body of the entity, and become active oft in the physical forces or the physical activities through their nerve reflexes in a material body.

Before this we find the entity was in that land now known as the Egyptian, during that period when there was the returning of those that had been astrayed through the sending away of the priest of the land.

The entity was among those that were banished with the priest, being with the priest Ra Ta in the association and in the activities of gathering together the tenets that the scribe—in a way; rather the one gathering the data than one scribing or protecting the data—collected. The entity aided the priest specifically in some of the associations and connections with those of the temple gatherers to whom the priest gave heart and mind; and for the act among those the entity was severely punished when banished by the natives, rather than the king. Yet, being healed by the priest in the foreign land, the entity came again into Egypt when there was the re-establishing, and aided in rebuilding the temples of service; being active then in what today would be called the preparations for those things that kept the cleansings of the temple after use of individual in body, or as a caretaker (termed in the present) of offices, temples, churches or buildings. Then the entity was in the name Pth-Lerr. The entity gained and gained, and much that is suffered in body is as a bringing to bear of that which may make the mental contact with the tenets of the experience.

One might ask (this aside, please), why would such be brought to bear? Because, with the experience of the entity in the period, seeing the developments and the activities, there was set within the soul that desire: “Come what may, whatever is necessary in my whole experience of my soul, make me to know again the joys of the tenets of Ra Ta.”

In the present these may mean much, if they are builded for a soul development in the present; for these needs be to overcome those experiences in the sojourn just previous in the Atlantean land.

Before this we find the entity in the Atlantean land rather rebelled with those forces of Baalilal, with those activities in the electrical appliances, when these were used by those peoples to make for beautiful buildings without but temples of sin within.

The entity, in the name Saail, was a priest (demoted) in the Temple of Oz in Atlantis, and lost from soul development, gained from material things; yet these fade, these make raids upon the body in physical manifestations. These make for hindrances in activity in that known within the innate self. For, rather were the mysteries of the black arts as applied in the experience practiced by Saail, yet these in the present may be turned into account in material things in making material connections; but use or apply same in the experience rather in the mental and spiritual manner for the soul development of the entity, rather than for materiality in the present. These are weaknesses, then, yet weakness is only strength misapplied or used in vain ways.

Before this we find the entity was in that land that has been termed Zu, or Lemuria, or Mu. This was before the sojourn of peoples in perfect body form; rather when they may be said to have been able to—through those developments of the period—be in the body or out of the body and act upon materiality. In the spirit or in flesh these made those things, those influences, that brought destruction; for the atmospheric pressure in the earth in the period was quite different from that experienced by the physical being of today.

The entity then was in the name Mmuum, or rather those calls that make easy the mysteries of words as related to sounds and rote that bring to the consciousness, in those that have indwelled in those lands, that activity that merits (not the word), that brings, that impulse that urges that those forces from without act upon the elements in whatever sphere they may bring a material manifestation. This must be controlled within self, from those influences in [436]; for these are those things at times that hinder.

Let self, then, be grounded rather in the faith of that which is, was, and ever will be, the source of all spirit, all thought all mind, all physical manifestation—the one God, as called in this period. In that period he was called Zu-u-u-u-u; in the next Ohm—Oh-u-m; in the next (now known as Egypt) with Ra Ta, He was called God—G-o-r-r-d!

As to the abilities of the entity, and that to which it may attain, and how, in the present:

First it may be said, study—through that known in self of the spiritual and mental forces active in the experience of the body—to show self approved unto an ideal that is set in the Son, the Christ, knowing that in possessing the consciousness of His love, His manifestation, all is well; for, as is known, without that love as He manifested among men, nothing can, nothing did, nothing will come into consciousness of matter. Not that we may deny evil and banish it, but supplanting and rooting out evil in the experience, replacing same with the love that is in the consciousness of the body Jesus, the Christ, we may do all things in His name; and using those opportunities in whatsoever sphere of activity the entity may find to show forth those commands He gave, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” What, ye ask, are His commandments? “A new commandment give I unto you, that ye love one another.” What, then, are the fruits of love? The fruits of the spirit; which are kindness, hope, fellowship, brotherly love, friendship, patience; these are the fruits of the spirit; these are the commands of Him that ye manifest them in whatsoever place ye find yourself, and your soul shall grow in grace, in knowledge, in understanding, and that joy that comes with a perfect knowledge in Him brings the joys of earth, the joys of the mental mind, or joys of the spheres, and the glory of the Father in thine experience.

Ready for questions.

Q: When will adverse planetary change for better influences in my life?

A: As indicated, the receding of Mars brings, and has brought, better planetary influences; as the mental activities and applications in the light of the love in Christ brings with those activities in the coming closer and closer of Venus with Uranus; which begins in December, present year, for the approach, reaching nearer conjunction in May or June of the coming year better conditions, mentally, materially, financially.

Q: What is the main purpose of this incarnation?

A: To set self aright as respecting the variations in those tenets in the first two experiences in the sojourn, tempered in those tenets given in Ra Ta—that, “The Lord Thy God is one!” And manifesting of that oneness in the little things makes the soul grow in His grace!

We are through for the present.

Editor’s Note: Cayce even gave readings on how to subdue negative influences from planetary or astrological soul activity. Here’s one example:

Text of Reading 137-18 M 27

(Stockbroker, Hebrew)

This psychic reading given by Edgar Cayce at his office, 322 Grafton Avenue, Dayton, Ohio, this 24th day of July, 1925, in accordance with request made by self—Mr. [137].

PRESENT

Edgar Cayce; Mrs. Cayce, Conductor; Gladys Davis, Steno.

READING

Born October 28, 1898, in New York City. On the floor of Time of Reading the New York Stock 9:30 A. M. Dayton Savings Time. Exchange, Wall & New Streets, N.Y.

GC: You will have before you the body of [137], on the floor of the N.Y. Stock Exchange, Wall & New Streets, New York City, N.Y., with the information as has been given this body in readings given for same on the 28th day of October, 1924, also that given on the 12th day of January, 1925, [See 137-4 and 137-12] especially that portion of same relating to the undue influences in the life of [137] when Moon’s forces square to Saturn and Mars bring doubts within the body’s mental forces. This is given in reading of January 12th, as occurring in the week of August 13, 1925. You will please tell us just the character of influence that will occur, whether of mental, spiritual or physical forces, and how this entity may guard against this influence.

EC: Yes, we have the body here, and the information as has been given this body in regards to influences as are exercised in the life of the entity at the periods given, through position of the planetary forces as are exercised in the life of same.

Now, we find that with the indwelling urges as are seen within the individual, when there occur certain positions of those planetary influences under which the body (meaning spiritual force body) has developed, these bring the intense urge towards those experiences of the entity as it passed through that phase of its development, for we find the urge within each entity is its experiences in all phases of its existence, plus the environmental conditions of body at time, with the will of entity counterbalancing same through body-mind urge. Hence the necessity of each entity understanding, having knowledge of those laws that do govern same in the material or physical realm, as well as those pertaining to the spiritual forces as are manifest through the body in each of its various changes, for we find all are one, for the real body is that spiritual force manifesting in same, always through the Trinity of that comprising same.

In the information as has been given as we find, these influences come for this body at this particular or special time, when through the influences as are exercised in the position Moon, Jupiter, with Saturn and with Mars, this brings to that body, [137], those of that urge, that doubt of self and self’s abilities to manifest either mental (Moon with Saturn), with physical, (doubting of own physical health, see?) through the forces or powers in Mars, the own spiritual forces as is the influence, or undue influence on Jupiter’s forces with this position as manifested. Then, we find these at this time pertaining to this nature:

The body-mind, the spiritual-mind, has reached at this period, especially, and during week of August 13, 1925, that place where the doubts of every nature, pertaining to this threefold force as is given here, come to the body. Hence, we will find, will be easily aggravated through any mental association, whether in business relation, moral relations socially or marital relations, for, seemingly, at this time would occur all of these combining with one to bring the detrimental forces to the mind. With the condition of mind comes that condition where the physical forces, apparently, respond more to these of the conditions wherein weaknesses are shown or manifested in same. Then the combination of all would bring as to that—well—“I don’t care! What difference does it make? Let it go to pot!”—See?

Then, to overcome this, rather place those forces as are manifest through will forces, knowing that these do appear. That, “Get thee behind me Saturn (Satan), that I will serve the living God, with my body, my mind, my money, my spirit, my soul, for I am His, and through me, my body, my mind, do I manifest my impression, my interpretation of my God.”

This does, not, as we see, relate to physical accidents, physical conditions, physical things, pertaining to the material things of life, save as would be affected by same through—“Well, I don’t care.”

We are through for the present.

9

Communicating with the Spirit Realm

Editor’s Note: From Cayce’s perspective, communicating with people who were not incarnate (spirits/ghosts) was simply another aspect of the psychic sense. However, he was not a supporter of Ouija boards and seances, preferring communications that he considered more healthy—ones that did not lead to confusion about and distraction from a soul’s incarnate purposes and relationships. Yet, as the following discourses will show, he taught that these spirit communications have a place in the full spectrum of life and the psychic sense.

Text of Reading 5756-4

This Psychic Reading given by Edgar Cayce at his office, 115 West 35th Street, Virginia Beach, Virginia, this 17th day of March, 1927, in accordance with request made by Edgar Cayce himself and [900].

PRESENT

Edgar Cayce; Gertrude Cayce, Conductor; Gladys Davis, Steno.

READING

Time of Reading 11:40 to 12:40 P. M. New York, N.Y.

GC: You will have before you all the information that has been given in psychic readings by Edgar Cayce concerning communication with those who have passed into the spirit plane. You will correlate all of this information in a systematic way and manner, that this may be understood by the conscious mind of any individual studying the subject, and you will answer all questions that I will ask you concerning this subject that should be answered. You will continue with such information which was begun yesterday, March 16, 1927, in 5756-3.

EC: (After having the first suggestion repeated and being told to continue) Yes.

Now, we have the information here, and that as has been given.

[Continuing:]

First, let it be understood there is the pattern in the material or physical plane of every condition as exists in the cosmic or spiritual plane, for things spiritual and things material are but those same conditions raised to a different condition of the same element—for all force is as of one force.

In that period when the spirit, or when the soul, (best that these be classified, that these be not misunderstood, then, in their relations one to another) is in the material, the body physically composed of the physical body, the mind, and the soul, add the subconscious mind, and the superconscious mind, or the spirit.

In the make-up of the active forces of the physical body, it (the body) is constituted of many, many, cells—each with its individual world within itself, controlled by the spirit that is everlasting, and guided by that of the soul, which is a counterpart—or the breath that makes that body individual, and when the body is changed, and this is the soul body, the elements as are patterned are of the same.

That is, that builded by thought and deed becomes the active particles, atoms, that make up that soul body, see?

When the soul passes, then, from the physical body, it (the soul body) then constituted with those atoms of thought (that are mind) and are of the Creative Forces a part, and then we have the soul body, with the mind, the subconscious mind, its attributes—which have been explained or given heretofore, as the relation of what the subconscious mind is—which never forgets, and is then as the sensuous [conscious] mind of the soul body; the spirit or superconscious mind being that as the subconscious mind of the material body—the place, then, of the resident or residence, or that occupied by the soul body becomes to the finite mind the first question. The occupancy is at once—as is seen here, there are about us many, many, many, soul bodies; those upon whom the thought of an individual, the whole being of an individual is attracted to, by that element of thought—just the same as the action in the material body—for remember, we are patterned, see? one as of another. In the next, then, we find that, that as builded by that soul is as the residence of that soul, the companion with that as has been builded by that soul—either of the earthbound or of that element or sphere, or plane, that has its attraction through that created in that soul being in the actions, by the thoughts, of that as an individual. Hence we find there are presented the same conditions in the astral or cosmic world, or cosmic consciousness, as is present in the material plane—until the consciousness of that soul has reached that development wherein such a soul is raised to that consciousness above the earth’s sphere, or earth’s attractive forces—until it reaches up, up, outward, until included in the all, see?

In the next step, then, we find, as regarding information given, the ability of such a body, or entity, to communicate with those in the material plane:

Question and answers are often confusing, by those that give or supply information concerning such experiences; for each experience is as individual as the individual that receives same, or the entity that transmits same, and the possibility, probability, the ability, of individuals to so communicate, or so draw on those forces, is raised, limited, or gained, by the act of the individual seeking its ability to so communicate—for, remembering, conditions are not changed. We find individuals at times communicative. At other times uncommunicative. There are moods, and there are moods. There are conditions in which such conditions are easily attained. There are others that are hard, as it were, to meet or cope with. The same condition remains in that distant sphere—as is felt by many—when it is the same sphere, unless the individual, or the entity, has passed on.

Then the next question that arises is: How are such communications brought about? Just as given. When the body (material) attunes self to that plane wherein the sensuous consciousness is in obeisance to the laws of physical or material, and the spiritual or astral laws are effective, those of the astral plane may communicate, in thought, in power, in form. What form, then, do such bodies assume? The desired form as is built and made by that individual in its experience through the material plane. Remembering our pattern. We find bodies are made by the action of cell units in the material body. Some to beauty, some to distress by that merited for the physical experience. Hence a necessity of a physical experience, that the desires that build may be made, changed, or acted upon.

Again we return to the astral or the soul body. In the various forms of communication, why, why, is such communication so often of seemingly an unnecessary nature, or seemingly inadequate to the mind of the soul entity, as understood by the mind of one hearing, seeing, or experiencing, such a communication? As may be illustrated in: The message as may be received from the boy just passed into the spirit world, and able through mediumistic forces of someone to communicate to mother, “All is well. Do not grieve. Do not long for the change.” Such seems to be in the nature of rebuke to a sensuous mind when momentous questions as might be propounded, could be, or would be—as some mind would say—given. Remember the pattern as is set before. Is the greeting, is the greeting of some profound questions the first meeting? Rather cultivate that of such communications, and receive the answer to that of the most profound that may be propounded in any way and manner to those seeking such information. Is such information always true? Always true, so far as the individual has brought self into that attunement as is necessary for the perfect understanding of same. Do not attempt to govern information, or judge information, by the incorrect law, see? When force is taken, what is the impelling force such as is seen in the movement of material objects? When under stress, the communication or the appearance of the soul body is in contact with the individual mind; such as we have seen and experienced through that of the information as has been given. Such impelling forces, we find, are the combination of that in the individual receiving and in the abilities of the individual so communicating—that is, we find that in the various experiences of individuals, levitation, or objects that are of material nature, are moved about by the active principle of the individual through whom such manifestations are being made, and not by spirit action, or soul action. Yet controlled by that cosmic consciousness. Don’t leave that out, see? Controlled—for, as given, the body must be subjugated that such force may manifest. Then we see undue strength, undue power, is seen exercised at such periods. True—for things that are controlled by spirit alone are of a great deal greater active force than of the sensuous mind, as a trained mind is more active than one untrained.

Now many questions have been given. Many various forms of the active forces of communicative energies, or of soul forces, as are manifested in the spirit world and in the material world, have been given—but these as we have given here are set forth that those who would study may have the basis of an understanding that will give each and everyone that knowledge that the physical world, and the cosmic world, or the astral world, are one—for the consciousness, the sensuous-consciousness, is as the growth from the subconsciousness into the material world. The growth in the astral world is the growth, or the digesting and the building of that same oneness in the spirit, the conscious, the subconscious, the cosmic, or the astral world. We find, from one to another, individuals—individuals—retained in that oneness, until each is made one in the Great Whole—the Creative Energy of the Universal Forces as are ever manifest in the material plane.

We are ready for the questions that may be asked, as we see here, concerning various conditions—for many are gathered about to give their various experiences as have been passed through in this transition period.

Q: Is it possible for those that have passed into the spirit plane to at all times communicate with those in the earth plane?

A: Yes and no—for these conditions are as has been described—that the necessary way or mode must be prepared; for as this: Ever has that vibration as is attracted and thrown off been active in the world as is exercised through that called the telephone, but without proper connection, without shorts, without any disturbance, may proper communication be made! These have not always been active to the physical body. These are not always in proper accord to be used by the physical body. Just the same in that pattern. Those in the astral plane are not always ready. Those in the physical plane are not always ready. What conditions arise (is asked) that we in the physical plane are not ready? The mind! What conditions arise that we in the astral plane are not ready? There are those same elements as has been outlined, of that of the development going on, and the willingness of that individual to communicate, as given, see? but when set aright, these may—until passed into that Oneness, or returned again, or gone on beyond such communications.

Q: What physical thing may an individual do to be able to communicate with those that have passed into the spirit plane?

A: Lay aside the carnal or sensuous mind and desire that those who would use that mentality, that soul, for its vehicle of expression, do so in the manner chosen by that soul; for some communicate in act, in sight, in movement, in voice, in writing, in drawing, in speaking, and in the various forces as are manifest—for force is one force.

Q: What form or body does the spirit entity assume upon leaving the earth or material body?

A: Just as given. That builded by the body in its experience. We illustrate: Would one of a uniform body desire a change—would one of a crippled body desire a change the answer, as has oft been given: act that way, it—the result, the change—comes about.

Q: Where is the dwelling place of such spirit entities?

A: That that such entity has builded, and as it (the entity) draws about it, or desires same shall be. In the earth’s plane many are attracted by those conditions and are held by many loved ones, when their desires to be on the way, as it were. Building in that way and manner as is in its heart of hearts, soul of soul, to be about. See? Now, the dwelling place is as builded by that entity, and in that place about the earth and the earth’s sphere, time is no time, space no space, to such entities.

Q: Is the effort for spirit communication as much effort on the part of the spirit entity as the effort that should be made on the part of the material or physical entity?

A: The force should never be applied, and may never be applied and be real, in either case. The willingness and the desire from both is necessary for the perfect communication, see? Illustrate this same condition by that physical condition as is seen in attunement of either that called radio, or of that called phone, or that of any of that vibratory force as is set by the electron in the material plane. Necessary for the perfect union that each be in accord. In other words, we find many in the astral plane seeking to give force active in the material. Many in the material seeking to delve into the astral. They must be made one, would they bring the better.

Q: What form of consciousness does the spirit entity assume?

A: That of the subconscious consciousness, as known in the material plane, or the acts and deeds, and thoughts, done in the body, are ever present before that being. Then consider what a hell digged by some, and what a haven and heaven builded by many.

Q: What are the powers of the spirit entity?

A: Raised to the highest power as is developed in that plane, and are—as outlined—as varying as individual’s power or ability to manifest, or to exercise that manifestation, in the material. We have not changed, see? for as we would say: What is the power of an individual in the physical plane? Naught as it enters. Naught until it reaches that ability to give of self in service. Yet, as we find, there is in all the world nothing that offers so much possibility as when the body of the human is born into the material plane. In the minds of every other, nothing offers more beautiful condition, raised to its same power, as the birth into that of the astral plane. Hence, how oft, how oft, is such seen in this entering! How expectant becomes both? Does it become a wonder at that vision as Stephen sees, when “My Lord, standing ready to receive me,” see?

Q: Is it possible for those passing into the spiritual plane to be conscious of both the material and the spiritual plane?

A: Just as given. Just as is seen in the various experiences of those who are spiritually minded—yet many carnal minds have passed from the body for days before they realized they were passed. Sensuousness!

Q: Describe to me what (Mrs. [3776]) saw as she entered the spirit plane, when she said “Mrs. [139] says she will guide me over.”

A: Just that same experience as has just been described. The desire in the mind—soul mind—and the physical mind, to be at a oneness, one with the other, and to give to each that as necessary for that wonderful development possible in that plane—for, as is seen, we find as this experience in this condition: The mind in that accord with the soul forces, in action, meets those who are the active in that of the aid in the development. Hence we find this very active force in the soul body, Mrs. [139] ready—and with that consciousness of the conditions in action going on—guiding and meeting the soul body in its transition, and the spirit body, mind, soul, attuned in that of the physical body, (Mrs. [3776]), so it answers one with another, and is capable of being hearkened back or to such condition, see?

Q: How may force act in unmaterialized form—i.e. without matter to embrace in itself the many individual self consciousness separated by space in the material form—i.e. man, but all one inner self in the cosmic or 4th dimension?

A: Just in the manner as has been described and given, in how that the transition of one force becomes as the portion of the whole force. As is, that each is the pattern, one of another, or as may be illustrated: How does the force or power transmitted from the powerhouse light each individual globe in the city? Each have their connection. Each have their various forms, or their various powers, according to that as has been set. Now, applying same in the illustrative forces, we find each being in accord, each being in the direct connection, each apply, manifest, according to that as is builded in the individual in its transition, or in its experience, and as the various forces are manifested each give off that as is taken on.

We are through for the present.

Reading 900-330

Q: In regard to the educational work in my connection with the Association, I am now entering upon that phase of the phenomena called Spirit Communication. I have experienced this myself quite frequently of late, in a very natural and pronounced manner. Will you give any special kind of reading that I may ask for in relation to these particular and personal experiences?

A: As has been given as respecting spirit communication, these are of the individual nature, and are of rather the individual interpretation, and when such are presented through, of, for, or on any other way or manner, there may be the suspect of there entering in other force than that of individual importance of individual understanding.

In the matter of spirit communication:

As is seen, as has been given, there are ever about those in the flesh in the earth’s plane those desiring to communicate with those in the earth plane, attracted by the act, intent and purport of the individual, or by the act, intent, purport, of that entity in the spirit plane.

In these as have been, as are being presented to this body, [900], these are above the ordinary experiences, and are of the definite position, condition, and represent definite phases in the understanding of the entity.

Study same, then, with that same knowledge as was given of old, that God the Father speaks to Himself through man and man’s activities in the earth. The spirit is of the Father, and all force is of God. Study these from this phase. As to information concerning definite or specific instances of communication, these may receive—through these sources—the interpretation, either of the giver, or of those associated in the spirit plane with such entities, see? for various phases of such communication present themselves much as the various phases of the development of entities, and those intents, those purports as were once set forth by Saul of Tarsus, are as near the correct interpretation of spirit communication as may be attained in any literature or writings that may be attained at the present period.

Prepare that thou art preparing concerning such conditions, and these will equal—or even be better understood than that as was given by him in those passages concerning the gifts of the spirit. Read same.

Q: What part of the Bible?

A: Paul—in the Epistle to the Corinthians.

Reading 900-363

That of the correct understanding will give the better understanding of spirit communication, or the activity of the forces from cosmic plane activity in the material forces; remembering, then, first there must be proper attunement for the correct understanding of any condition presented to a sensuous mind. From the present then, we find that given of “Seek and ye shall find,” in its broaden sense is answered in that experienced here. That is, when self desires—and puts desire in action, with self in attunement in the spiritual sense—that same reasoning as spoken of self’s subconscious self gives answer from within, and accorded to by cosmic forces in attunement with that desired. Hence the feeling of innate action separated from cosmic forces, or urge, or push. This then gives one the understanding that though there may be many urges from without and within, unless self has lost through inactivity the power of self, then self’s action accorded by will is ever the stronger force, whether related to those urges from the physical surroundings and all its elements of urge, or from spiritual surroundings with its urge from developed or from cosmic entities’ action on same; for self remains ever the portion of the whole, irrespective of those elements that have to do with either the mental materialness or the spiritual activity actualities of that plane. Hence like begets like, and man—or the being itself—is the pilot, director and keeper of self.

Prayers for the Dead—

Reading 281-15

Q: Please give a prayer for those who have passed on?

A: Father, in Thy love, Thy mercy, be Thou near those who are in—and have recently entered—the borderland. May I aid, when Thou seest that Thou canst use me.

Reading 2280-1

Q: Can you tell me if my older son, who passed away last May, died of natural causes or was he killed?

A: An accident.

Q: Can I be of any help to my sons now? If so, how?

A: Prayer for those who are seeking a way, the way to the light, aids ever.

As ye meditate—as ye pray—for as thy body is indeed the temple of the living God, there He hath promised to meet thee—then as ye meet Him, thy Maker, thy Lord—pray that there may be the light, the help needed, that they may be guided in that way and manner which will bring all together in the way as he, thy Lord, would have it.

Q: Can you tell me how they are developing, and what is happening to them?

A: This ye may find the better within thyself. For as ye seek, as ye speak with Life—the Lord—there ye may know as to what, as to how they each are developing.

Reading 281-4

Q: Will the forces please give us information regarding [5546, male child mentally retarded] passing on? Did we aid him? If so, how?

A: Here we find a physical condition of a nature that was of prenatal conditions, where a physical being was in existence with only half an awareness of the conditions about same. The releasing of that force into the ability to become aware, or a birth into the spiritual sources. Not only aiding the individual but those so responsible for same, as to bring a consciousness of the universal or creative spiritual forces in the lives—lives of all. Aid, then, not only to the body but to those so vitally interested in the same.

Reading 281-19

Q: Were we able to help C.H.H. before he passed on? And why did I feel so confident that he would recover? May some enlightenment be given?

A: As each seeks to give expression of that felt within self, it may be of the best of seed; yet seed falls upon all characters of soil, even as He has shown. Yet those that would sow the word of truth, or that would manifest His love as the sower, falter not. Aid came. Be not discouraged. It will bear fruit.

Reading 2276-4

Q: To what extent was [5678’s husband] helped by our prayers, mentally, physically or spiritually?

A: Still gaining from same!

Q: Can we help him further?

A: If he is still gaining, you can still help him!

... there should not be wholly discouragements; and not necessarily a resignedness, but rather the attitude of being a channel, being used in the way and manner as the divine influence within would have thee be.

Let thy prayer be:

“In Thy hands, O God, I commit my estate, my being. Thou knowest that which is needed for that manner of expression in which I may make that union with Thee in the Christ. May all things be done in order and in keeping with Thy will.”

10

Our Destiny Beyond Death

Reading 900-147

Q: Is this a revelation—a revelation of that I was pondering—what is meant by Life Eternal?

A: Life Eternal—One with that Oneness, as is seen by the Soul becoming One with the Will, the spirit, of the Father, even as is shown in the ensample of the Man called Jesus—the Christ, the Savior of the World, through compliance to those same laws, as He complied with, see? for with that Force, that Spirit, brought in the World, then becomes the truth, “What thou asketh in My name, believing in thine heart, same shall be unto thee.” Beautiful is the life and the feet of those who walk in the paths of the righteous One. Lo! The Heavens open and I see Him stand at that Way which leads unto Life Everlasting; that then the Way, the Truth, the Light, the Water of Life, the Man made Perfect in that Spirit of Him who gave Himself as the ransom for many.

In this is the ransom then: Making self of low estate, as is called in man’s realm. All powerful—yet never using that power, save to help, to assist, to give aid, to give succor to someone who is not in that position to help or aid self, see?

Reading 262-75

First, then, to define destiny—that is in accord with truth: Destiny is of the next three lessons that would be given through here. Then, destiny is of what? Mind, body, soul. The next three lessons: Mind, body, soul.

Destiny is, then, a law—an immutable law, that is as lasting as that which brought all into being that is manifested in all the varied spheres of materialization, or manifestation; and that of which man has seen the signs here, there, written in those experiences of the travelers along the varied spheres of experience. Man in the interpretation of those signs has often mistaken the sign for the law.

Hence to those that hold to this or that theory, then, this group would present—in reference to the destiny of mind, of body, of soul—that which may become as a light to many who have stumbled upon those signs in their activities, in their efforts here and there.

Then, in giving that from which and upon which ye as individuals have applied and may apply as a group in giving an aid to others, in making their paths straight, look ye to the law that is destiny—destined—in the Word of Him. For He gave that though the heavens and the earth pass away, His Word shall not pass away. What is the gospel? What is the truth? What is the judgment? What is the law?

“As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he”? ye ask. “As ye do it unto the least of these, my little ones, ye do it unto me”? another asks. “As ye would that men should do unto you, do ye even so to them” says another.

What gave He as the last command? “A new commandment I give unto you, Love one another.” What is thy lesson on Love? How many live same in their daily experience?

But ye ask again, What of destiny? He hath not willed that any soul should perish but that every soul shall know the will of God to do it!

Then, ye wonder—can such be possible in threescore and ten years in the earth? Also ye wonder—doth the time of birth, the place of the environment, make or have a part in destiny? Do the days or the years, or the numbers, all have their part? Yea, more than that! Yet, as has been given, all these are but signs along the way; they are but omens; they are but the marks that have indicated—for, as given, He has set His mark, and these are signs, not the destinies! For the destiny of the mind, of the body, of the soul, is with Him. For naught that man may do maketh for the righteousness, but the mercy of the Father as exemplified in the Son makes for the destinies of that trinity of the mind, the body, the soul, in its effort, in its endeavor, in any environ, in any experience, to mark the way; yea, even so clearly that there may not be longer the stumbling, the wandering—for the day of the Lord draweth nigh for many. While ye wander, search thine own heart and know as of old that faith is counted as righteousness to those that love the Lord. Those of ye study that ye show yourselves approved unto Him that giveth life; that would direct the mind, that manifests in the body, that would have thy soul as a companion with Him—thy elder brother! Who hath opened the gates of heaven, who hath closed—to you that manifest love—the gates of hell! For He hath given. And he that confesseth that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, hath life eternal—and the gates of hell shall not prevail against him!

What, then, is thy Destiny? It is made in that thou pervertest not that thou knowest to do in thine heart respecting thy fellow man! For ye look to Him who is the author and the finisher of faith. He is Faith, and Truth, and Light—and in no other is there comeliness at all. For He is the rock of salvation; the bright, the morning star; the rose of Sharon; the wonderful counsellor. In Him is thy Destiny. Turn ye not away from Him.

As to those things that are marks, signs, omens along the way—understand them for what they are! Put not thy trust in them! For He has given (and remember He gave, “Heavens and the earth may pass, but my Word shall not!”); he that seeks shall find; he that knocketh, to him shall be opened. For He hath spoken, and His word is; that “Though ye wander far afield, though ye become beset by the doubts and the fears, though ye even turn thy back upon me, if ye will remember the promises and turn, I will hear—speedily—and will forgive thy trespasses, even as you forgive those that trespass against you.”

Let love be without dissimulation. Look not upon that which may bring only joy to thee, yet even peace to thee; for He is thy light and thy guide. Put rather thy life, thy experiences, thy associations, even thine own self, into His keeping; knowing He is able to keep that thou hast committed unto Him—and may save thee, for He alone hath the words of life. And no matter what ye make or mark, or mar, He is still with thee, ready to harken when ye call.

Let thine heart be raised, then, in praise that thou hast named the Name above every other name; for He alone can save—and He alone can forgive—He alone can answer prayer; to the same measure that thou, in thine own experience, answereth the prayer of thy fellow man.

Reading 262-77

That individuals may of their own volition choose the exaltation of self, or the aggrandizement of self’s own ego, is apparent. This makes for what many have termed and do term their karmic conditions, that may then be seen.

Those who are in that way or attitude of “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of the heart be acceptable in Thy sight,” are in the way of truth.

Those that kick against the pricks—even as thine own teacher, thine own writer, Paul, saw the error and turned therein. Was it destiny that he was to be called? Or that the gift of the Son set a way, a vine, a water, living water, and that he chose to meditate and thus give that destined to work upon? For, as given, this material life is of those energies that make for the adherence to the laws that pertain to this material plane. And the spiritual laws are interpenetrable with those activities that make for the will of the Father that no soul should perish but that there may be the burning of the dross that it may be sifted as wheat, that it may be purified even as He through suffering in the material things that are for the soul’s edification.

Then, in this may each be enabled to look only to Him, knowing that He is the light, He is the way; those things which come to bear in the experience are that there may be known those things necessary for those who seek, for only those who seek may find.

For, as has been given, there be nothing in earth, in hell, in heaven, that may separate the soul from God save the individual soul.

Then, what is destiny? That the soul who seeks shall the sooner find; that the soul who puts into practice day by day that which is known may the sooner enjoin itself to that which is hope and peace and happiness and love and joy in the earth.

That there should be those who should know heaven on earth or in the earth, or in flesh, is the destiny of those that are willing, who have had their minds, their bodies, their souls cleansed in the blood of the Lamb. How? By being as He, a living example of that He, the Christ, professed to be.

Then, that which hinders most—this group, any group, the world—is speaking one thing and living in the inner self another. This destines to bring confusion and turmoil and strife and want, and a reckoning with that which makes for tears, sorrow, and that is of the earth earthy. And ye are, as He gave, servants of—workers with—that force whom ye serve.

In presenting self, then, as has been given, come to the altar of truth within thine own self. There He through His promise, in His promise, will meet thee, and it shall be shown thee that which is the way, the manner.

Individuals in their understanding falter here and there, for they have been told and have listened from their own observation, rather than experience, that this way, that way, the prayer at this period or at that period, the stars at this period have meant or do indicate or do mean that this number from the name, this day means this or that, and in the application comes confusion. These—as has been given—are signs, are omens; but how gavest He? “The heavens and the earth will pass away, but my word shall not pass away.”

The signs, the omens then, are to be used as stepping-stones for an understanding; not to be confused with nor given—through that gift in thee of constructive forces from the Father-God Himself—other power than they contain within themselves. For each soul that meets and encounters and accredits receives the same in return. How gave He on this? “He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet hath a prophet’s reward.” This does not indicate that the prophet received is of God, an angel of heaven or of hell; but in the name, in the manner, in the way as received so cometh the reward that is destined! Why? In the seed of thought, whether of body, mind or soul, is the seed thereof; and it bears fruit which is of its own kind and nature. Said He, “Ye do not gather grapes from thistles; neither may ye expect to do evil looking for good.” For the destiny is in that which has set the world, yea, the earth and all that is therein, in motion. And ye in thy blindness, thy foolishness, thy desire for self, look for some easy way; when all the ease, all the hope, all the life there is is in Him! Then, His way is the easy way. What is His way? “He that would force thee to go one mile, go with him twain; he that would sue thee and take away thy coat, give him thy cloak also.” Did He say whether justly or unjustly? Who did He say is the judge? “Judge not that ye be not judged.” For, “As ye do it unto the least in the earth, ye do it unto me.”

Then, when ye seek to do His biddings and do otherwise than thou would have Him do unto thee, thou alone maketh the way harder for thyself. For the will of the Father is life! It is life eternal to as many as will accept, as many as will view that which they hear from the still small voice as they meet Him within. For ye are made up of mind, body, soul. The soul is the God-part in thee, the living God. The manifestations that ye make in thy mind make for that growth which is manifested in the body in the earth and in thy soul in the everlasting.

So, know ye the way; point it out. For, as He has given, though ye come to the altar or to thine church or to thine group or to thine neighbor pleading not for self but for others, and it is that ye may be exalted, that ye may be honored, that ye may be spoken well of, for others; He cannot hear thy petition. Why? Because there has another entered with thee into thy chamber, thy closet, and He thy God—that answers prayer, that forgives through His Son—is shut out. In His name, then, only; for, as He gave, “They that climb up some other way are thieves and robbers.”

Then, today, will ye not rededicate thyself, thy body, thy soul, to the service of thy God? And He that came has promised, “When ye ask in my name, that will be given thee in the earth.” Then, do not become impatient that ye are counted in this day as a servant, as an humble worker, as one that is troubled as to food, shelter, or those things that would make thy temporal surroundings the better. For ye grow weary in waiting, but the Lord will not tarry; eternity is long, and in that ye may spend it in those things that are joy and peace and harmony, make thy self sure in Him. How? “As ye do it unto these, my brethren, ye do it unto me.” Just being kind! Thy destiny is in Him. Are ye taking Him with thee in love into thy associations with thy fellow man, or art thou seeking thy own glorification, exaltation, or thine own fame, or that ye may even be well-spoken of? When ye do, ye shut Him away.

Enter thou into thy chamber not made with hands, but eternal; for there He has promised to meet thee. There alone may ye meet Him and be guided to those things that will make this life, now, happiness, joy and understanding.

As ye have received, love ye one another even as He has loved you, who gave up heaven and all its power, all its glory, that thine mind can conceive, and came into the earth in flesh that ye through Him might have the access to the Father, God. In Him there is no variableness or shadow made by turning. Then, neither must thy thoughts or thy acts cause a frown or a shadow upon thy brother—even as He. For He gave, “Be ye perfect, even as thy heavenly Father is perfect.” Ye say, “This cannot be done in this house of clay!” Did He? Ye say, “This is too hard for me!” Did he grumble, did He falter? To be sure, He cried, “Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass.” Yea, oft will ye cry aloud, even as He. Ye cannot bear the burden alone, but He has promised and He is faithful, “If ye put thy yoke upon me, I will guide you.”

Then, when we come in our sorrows alone and there comes the peace, the quiet, and then those periods of joy and gladnes when we forget—we carry the thought of others, of those that would make merry, and wonder why the joy has passed. It is because we have left Him outside.

Take Him, then, in thy joys, in thy sorrows, in all of thyself; for He alone hath the words of life.

Reading 412-9

Q: Along what lines should entity study to prepare for entity’s destiny in the cosmic plane?

A: Study to show thyself approved unto that thou hast set as thy ideal in the spiritual plane; rightly divining the words of truth. For truth is life, life is light; and He is life, He is light, He is the Creative Force in thine experience. And keep self unspotted from condemnation of the world.

Q: Give guidance how to bring this idea into material manifestation.

A: Work at same as ye would the seam upon a garment. Ye do not stitch the whole seam at a flash, but one stitch at a time. Hence as has been given, it is precept upon precept, here a little, there a little; making practical application.

If ye would be happy (it is the law), ye must make others happy. Ye cannot know happiness unless ye experience that ye have brought happiness, hope, joy, into the experience of another.

This does not mean, then, becoming long-faced, melancholy; but rather joyous, glad, hopeful! But neither does it mean folding thy hands in indolence; rather as has been given, the harvest is white, the laborers are few. If ye would know Him, be up and doing. For as it was said, “He went about doing good.” Not being good but doing good—which is the being good; being good for something, mentally, spiritually.

Mind is the Builder. Then, if ye would have less strife and more harmony, build same in thy daily relationships. For when ye complain of the faults of others, do ye not build such barriers that you cannot speak kindly or gently to those whom ye have felt or do feel have defrauded or would defraud thee? How spoke the Master?

“It is indeed necessary that offenses come, but woe unto him by whom they come.” But “If thine enemy smite thee, turn the other cheek.” Living that, being that, is to know the life eternal; and only in the manifesting of same, and bringing into materiality such experiences, may ye indeed know the joy even of living.

For how gave He? “Ye would not have known—had I not come.” And His promises are sure! For though the heavens—yea, and the earth—pass, His words will not pass away.

Then in Him ye can, ye may, believe.

A.R.E. PRESS

Edgar Cayce (1877–1945) founded the non-profit Association for Research and Enlightenment (A.R.E.) in 1931, to explore spirituality, holistic health, intuition, dream interpretation, psychic development, reincarnation, and ancient mysteries—all subjects that frequently came up in the more than 14,000 documented psychic readings given by Cayce.

Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E. provides individuals from all walks of life and a variety of religious backgrounds with tools for personal transformation and healing at all levels—body, mind, and spirit.

A.R.E. Press has been publishing since 1931 as well, with the mission of furthering the work of A.R.E. by publishing books, DVDs, and CDs to support the organization’s goal of helping people to change their lives for the better physically, mentally, and spiritually.

In 2009, A.R.E. Press launched its second imprint, 4th Dimension Press. While A.R.E. Press features topics directly related to the work of Edgar Cayce and often includes excerpts from the Cayce readings, 4th Dimension Press allows us to take our publishing efforts further with like-minded and expansive explorations into the mysteries and spirituality of our existence without direct reference to Cayce-specific content.

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Learn more at EdgarCayce.org. Visit ARECatalog.com to browse and purchase additional titles.

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EDGAR CAYCE’S A.R.E.

Who Was Edgar Cayce?

Twentieth Century Psychic and Medical Clairvoyant

Edgar Cayce (pronounced Kay-Cee, 1877-1945) has been called the “sleeping prophet,” the “father of holistic medicine,” and the most-documented psychic of the 20th century. For more than 40 years of his adult life, Cayce gave psychic “readings” to thousands of seekers while in an unconscious state, diagnosing illnesses and revealing lives lived in the past and prophecies yet to come. But who, exactly, was Edgar Cayce?

Cayce was born on a farm in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, in 1877, and his psychic abilities began to appear as early as his childhood. He was able to see and talk to his late grandfather’s spirit, and often played with “imaginary friends” whom he said were spirits on the other side. He also displayed an uncanny ability to memorize the pages of a book simply by sleeping on it. These gifts labeled the young Cayce as strange, but all Cayce really wanted was to help others, especially children.

Later in life, Cayce would find that he had the ability to put himself into a sleep-like state by lying down on a couch, closing his eyes, and folding his hands over his stomach. In this state of relaxation and meditation, he was able to place his mind in contact with all time and space—the universal consciousness, also known as the super-conscious mind. From there, he could respond to questions as broad as, “What are the secrets of the universe?” and “What is my purpose in life?” to as specific as, “What can I do to help my arthritis?” and “How were the pyramids of Egypt built?” His responses to these questions came to be called “readings,” and their insights offer practical help and advice to individuals even today.

The majority of Edgar Cayce’s readings deal with holistic health and the treatment of illness. Yet, although best known for this material, the sleeping Cayce did not seem to be limited to concerns about the physical body. In fact, in their entirety, the readings discuss an astonishing 10,000 different topics. This vast array of subject matter can be narrowed down into a smaller group of topics that, when compiled together, deal with the following five categories: (1) Health-Related Information; (2) Philosophy and Reincarnation; (3) Dreams and Dream Interpretation; (4) ESP and Psychic Phenomena; and (5) Spiritual Growth, Meditation, and Prayer.

Learn more at EdgarCayce.org.

What Is A.R.E.?

Edgar Cayce founded the non-profit Association for Research and Enlightenment (A.R.E.) in 1931, to explore spirituality, holistic health, intuition, dream interpretation, psychic development, reincarnation, and ancient mysteries—all subjects that frequently came up in the more than 14,000 documented psychic readings given by Cayce.

The Mission of the A.R.E. is to help people transform their lives for the better, through research, education, and application of core concepts found in the Edgar Cayce readings and kindred materials that seek to manifest the love of God and all people and promote the purposefulness of life, the oneness of God, the spiritual nature of humankind, and the connection of body, mind, and spirit.

With an international headquarters in Virginia Beach, Va., a regional headquarters in Houston, regional representatives throughout the U.S., Edgar Cayce Centers in more than thirty countries, and individual members in more than seventy countries, the A.R.E. community is a global network of individuals.

A.R.E. conferences, international tours, camps for children and adults, regional activities, and study groups allow like-minded people to gather for educational and fellowship opportunities worldwide.

A.R.E. offers membership benefits and services that include a quarterly body-mind-spirit member magazine, Venture Inward, a member newsletter covering the major topics of the readings, and access to the entire set of readings in an exclusive online database.

Learn more at EdgarCayce.org.

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