Liberation isn’t found in clinging.
It isn’t found in rejecting.
It’s found in the stillness between the two.
When nothing pulls you…
and nothing pushes you…
you’re free. 🕊️
Buddha’s Secrets to Liberation
Category Archives: Inspiration
Prominent Hindu Christians: Mystics, Thinkers, and Bridge-Builders Between Two Worlds
Throughout history, a remarkable group of spiritual seekers have stood at the crossroads of two ancient traditions—Hinduism and Christianity. While born into Hindu culture or deeply immersed in Indian spirituality, these individuals embraced Christ while continuing to honor the mystical depth, symbolism, and philosophical richness of Hindu thought. Far from abandoning one path in favor of another, they became bridges—teachers, monks, and scholars who translated the message of Christ into India’s spiritual language. From the saffron-clad Sadhu Sundar Singh to contemplative monks like Bede Griffiths and Abhishiktananda, these figures helped shape a unique and powerful interfaith dialogue that continues to influence theology and spiritual practice today.
There are a number of individuals who are known as Hindu Christians or who have blended elements of Hinduism and Christianity in their personal beliefs or teachings. Here are some prominent examples:
1. Sadhu Sundar Singh (1889–1929?)
- An Indian Christian missionary who came from a Sikh background but was deeply influenced by both Hindu and Christian mysticism.
- He presented Christianity in Indian cultural forms and often used parables and stories in the style of Indian sages.
- Although fully committed to Christ, he wore the garb of a Hindu sadhu and emphasized experiential spirituality over institutional religion.
2. Bede Griffiths (1906–1993)
- A British-born Benedictine monk who lived in India and sought to bridge Christian monasticism with Indian spirituality.
- He adopted the lifestyle and dress of a Hindu sannyasi and incorporated Hindu philosophical ideas into his Christian theology.
- Led the Shantivanam Ashram in Tamil Nadu, which became a hub for interfaith dialogue.
3. Raimon Panikkar (1918–2010)
- Born to a Spanish Catholic mother and an Indian Hindu father, Panikkar was both a Catholic priest and a scholar of Hinduism.
- He described himself as being “Hindu-Christian” and wrote extensively on interreligious dialogue.
- Known for works like “The Unknown Christ of Hinduism” and for developing the concept of “cosmotheandric” reality (God–human–cosmos unity).
4. Abhishiktananda (Henri Le Saux, 1910–1973)
- A French Benedictine monk who moved to India and immersed himself in Advaita Vedanta and Hindu monastic life.
- While remaining a Christian monk, he had profound mystical experiences of nonduality and wrote about the encounter between Hindu and Christian mysticism.
5. Amalorpavadass (1932–1990)
- An Indian Catholic theologian and priest who worked toward integrating Indian culture and Hindu thought into Christian liturgy and theology.
- Played a key role in the Indianization of Catholic worship post-Vatican II.
The world is filled with loud arguments about religion—but the lives of these Hindu Christians tell a different story. They show how faith can expand rather than divide, how devotion can unite rather than separate, and how the Divine can shine through many cultures while pointing to the same eternal Light. Their legacy continues in India and around the world, inspiring seekers of all backgrounds who hunger for a spirituality rooted in unity, love, and direct experience of God. Whether one stands in a temple, an ashram, or a church, the heart of their message remains simple: the Divine cannot be contained in one system alone.
𓋹 𓋹 𓋹
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Menadel – Angel of Fearlessness, Work, Vocation & Liberation
Among the sacred 72 Names of God, the 36th triplet—Mem Nun Dalet (מנד)—carries a unique resonance of strength and liberation. In the modern Kabbalistic teachings of Yehuda Berg, this name is distilled into the quality of “Fearless”: a spiritual key for dissolving paralyzing anxiety and stepping forward with trust in divine protection. In the Western esoteric tradition of the Shem HaMephorash, the same triad of letters reveals the angel Menadel, whose influence spans September 18–23 under the zodiac sign of Virgo. Menadel is invoked as a guardian of vocation and liberty, guiding seekers toward meaningful work, shielding them from deceit, and opening pathways of release from oppression—whether external circumstances or inner limitations. Together, these streams of wisdom converge into a powerful meditation on courage, freedom, and the sacred purpose of our labor.
🔹 Yehuda Berg’s 72 Names of God (Kabbalah Center system)
Name: מ.נ.ד (Mem–Nun–Dalet)
Number: 36th of the 72 Names
Key Quality: Fearless
Associations in Berg’s system:
- Phrase/Mantra: “Fearless” – the meditation is about removing fear, anxiety, and doubt, and trusting divine protection.
- Function:
- Helps cut through illusions of fear and insecurity.
- Invokes courage to face obstacles.
- Strengthens faith that all experiences are purposeful and guided by higher wisdom.
- Practical use: Meditating on this triplet is said to dissolve “paralyzing fear” and help move forward with confidence.
🔹 Shem HaMephorash – Angel Menadel (Western Esoteric/Kabbalistic system)
Angel Name: Menadel (מנדאל)
Number: 36th of the 72 Angels
Zodiacal Rulership: Virgo, 25°–30° (Sept 18–23)
Hebrew Letters: מ.נ.ד (same as above)
Chorus: Powers (ruled by Archangel Camael/Kamael, in Geburah)
Elemental association: Earth
Attributes:
- Angel of work, vocation, and liberation.
- Helps people keep or find employment, discover their true calling, or be released from slavery (internal or external).
- Protects against slander, gossip, and negative influences in professional life.
- Supports discipline, perseverance, and service through work.
Psalm verse associated: Psalm 26:8
“O Lord, I have loved the habitation of Thy house, and the place where Thine honour dwelleth.”
Esoteric uses:
- Invocation during Sept 18–23 or during the daily ruling times (12:00–12:20 pm local solar time) strengthens connection.
- Petitioned for release from oppression, finding meaningful employment, and for protection from enemies or deceitful people.
🔹 Integrating Both Systems
- Common Theme: Liberation from fear.
- In Berg’s system: liberation from fear in the mind and spirit.
- In Menadel’s angelic aspect: liberation from external bondage, oppression, or insecurity around one’s work/calling.
- Meditation/Invocation suggestion:
- Meditate on the Hebrew letters מ.נ.ד. visualized in white fire.
- Recite Psalm 26:8 aloud.
- Call upon Angel Menadel for courage, protection, and guidance in vocation.
- Use the intention “I walk fearless, free, and faithful in my true purpose.”
🔮 Invocation of Mem Nun Dalet / Angel Menadel
Face east or toward a light source. Breathe deeply, center yourself, and visualize the three Hebrew letters מ נ ד glowing in white fire before you.
Invocation:
Divine Source, Eternal and Infinite,
I call upon the sacred Name Mem Nun Dalet,
the Name of Fearlessness, the flame that dissolves all illusions of fear.
May these letters shine within me, burning away doubt, anxiety, and limitation.
Fill my heart with courage and trust,
that I may walk in freedom, guided by Your wisdom.I summon the holy Angel Menadel,
Guardian of liberty and vocation,
who protects the dignity of work and the truth of purpose.
Menadel, stand beside me—
release me from every chain of oppression,
safeguard me from deception and slander,
and open the gates of meaningful labor aligned with my soul.As it is written: “O Lord, I have loved the habitation of Thy house,
and the place where Thine honour dwelleth” (Psalm 26:8).
Let my life itself become Your dwelling place,
where fear cannot reside and purpose flows freely.By the light of Mem Nun Dalet,
by the protection of Menadel,
and by the mercy of the One Eternal,
I step forward fearless, free, and faithful.
Pause in silence, feeling the light of the letters settle within you. End with gratitude.
Whether approached through the mystical lens of Yehuda Berg’s 72 Names or the angelic path of the Shem HaMephorash, Mem Nun Dalet / Menadel reminds us that fear is an illusion, and freedom is our divine inheritance. This name and angel call us to stand firm in faith, embrace our true vocation, and trust that each step forward is supported by heavenly guardianship. To work with this energy—through meditation on the letters, invocation of Menadel, or reciting the Psalm of his domain—is to align with a current of fearless liberation that guides us out of bondage and into purposeful living.
𓋹 𓋹 𓋹
Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and Gnosis, and to connect deeper with a circle of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, like you…
Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to work directly with me. I’m here to help! Send me a message to discuss your interests and questions.
~Sakshi Zion 🔯
Al-Ghazali on Jesus & the Vegetarian Ascetic Lifestyle of Yeshua the Nazorean Christ
Al-Ghazali (1058–1111), a prominent Persian theologian, jurist, philosopher, and mystic in Islam, mentioned Jesus (known as ‘Isa in Islam) in his writings. Jesus is highly respected in Islam as a prophet and a model of piety and asceticism. While Al-Ghazali did not focus extensively on Jesus, here are some notable quotes and references:
- On Jesus’ Asceticism:
In Ihya’ Ulum al-Din (The Revival of the Religious Sciences), Al-Ghazali quotes Jesus:
“The world is a bridge, so pass over it and do not inhabit it.”
This quote reflects Jesus’ ascetic approach to life and the transient nature of worldly existence. - On Wealth and Worldliness:
Al-Ghazali recounts a story of Jesus saying:
“My salt is the herbs of the field, and my lamp at night is the moon. I have nothing, yet no one is richer than I.”
This emphasizes contentment with little and finding richness in simplicity. - On the Tongue:
Al-Ghazali attributed to Jesus the saying:
“O disciples, do not speak much, lest your hearts become hardened. For a hard heart is far from God, but you do not know it.”
This quote aligns with both Islamic and Christian teachings on the dangers of idle talk. - On the Company of the Righteous:
Al-Ghazali mentions Jesus advising his disciples:
“Sit with those whose sight reminds you of God, whose speech increases you in knowledge, and whose actions remind you of the Hereafter.” - On Forgiveness:
Al-Ghazali also narrates:
“When Jesus, peace be upon him, was asked, ‘Who taught you good manners?’ he replied, ‘No one. I saw the ignorance of the ignorant and avoided it.'”
This illustrates the importance of learning through observation and avoiding bad behavior.
Al-Ghazali emphasized asceticism, compassion, and spiritual purity, often using Jesus as an exemplar of these virtues. Some references that might suggest a more ascetic and compassionate lifestyle include:
- Jesus’ Simplicity and Minimalism:
In Ihya’ Ulum al-Din (The Revival of the Religious Sciences), Al-Ghazali quoted Jesus:
“My salt is the herbs of the field, and my lamp at night is the moon. I have nothing, yet no one is richer than I.”
While this quote highlights simplicity, it also hints at a plant-based diet, as it mentions herbs rather than meat. However, this is more an implication of asceticism than a clear advocacy for vegetarianism. - On Gentleness and Mercy:
Al-Ghazali often highlighted Jesus’ compassion, which could indirectly support nonviolence toward animals. He quoted Jesus as saying:
“Blessed is he who sees with his heart but whose heart is not distracted by what his eyes see.”
While not about diet, this points to a mindful and compassionate approach to life, which some might extend to treatment of animals. - Critique of Excess and Sacrifice:
Al-Ghazali criticized excess in religious rituals especially if not accompanied by true piety. He wrote about the futility of sacrifice without spiritual sincerity:
“God does not need your meat or your blood, but He needs your piety.”
This echoes Quranic sentiments (22:37) and might align with a more symbolic or internalized understanding of sacrifice rather than a literal one. - Emphasis on Spiritual Sacrifice:
Al-Ghazali suggested that true sacrifice involves the ego and desires, not just physical offerings:
“The sacrifice of the soul is greater than the sacrifice of animals.”
This could be interpreted as a move away from physical sacrifice towards an internal, spiritual purification.
Al-Ghazali often cited Jesus (known as ‘Isa in Islam) in his works, particularly in Ihya’ Ulum al-Din (The Revival of the Religious Sciences) and other writings. While there isn’t a definitive, exhaustive list of all the sayings of Jesus recorded by Al-Ghazali, here are many of the known sayings and teachings attributed to Jesus in his works:
1. On the World and Asceticism
- “The world is a bridge, so pass over it and do not inhabit it.”
- “My salt is the herbs of the field, and my lamp at night is the moon. I have nothing, yet no one is richer than I.”
- “Woe to the lover of the world! How will he die and leave it? Woe to the neglectful one who is distracted by it! How it deceives and betrays!”
- “The world is but a passing moment, so make it a moment of obedience.”
2. On Speech and the Heart
- “O disciples, do not speak much, lest your hearts become hardened. For a hard heart is far from God, but you do not know it.”
3. On Companionship
- “Sit with those whose sight reminds you of God, whose speech increases you in knowledge, and whose actions remind you of the Hereafter.”
4. On Humility and Learning
- “When Jesus, peace be upon him, was asked, ‘Who taught you good manners?’ he replied, ‘No one. I saw the ignorance of the ignorant and avoided it.'”
5. On Piety and Worship
- “Blessed is he who sees with his heart but whose heart is not distracted by what his eyes see.”
- “Do not look at the faults of others as if you are a lord; look at your own faults as if you are a slave.”
6. On Charity and Generosity
- “O Children of Israel! Do not be generous except from what is pure. Do not place a stone upon a stone and do not build from what you do not eat.”
7. On Wealth and Simplicity
- “Do not gather what you do not eat, and do not build what you do not live in.”
8. On the Spiritual Journey
- “You will not reach what you love except through patience with what you hate.”
9. On Love and Forgiveness
- “Love your enemy and forgive those who wrong you.”
10. On Avoiding Excess and Desires
- “O disciples! The love of this world and the love of the Hereafter cannot be combined in the heart of a believer, just as fire and water cannot be combined in a single vessel.”
11. On The Afterlife
- “This world is like a serpent: smooth to the touch but poisonous within. So avoid it, for it is as such.”
12. On Fasting and Spirituality
- “Fasting is a treasure, and the fasting person is in the protection of God.”
These sayings highlight Jesus’ asceticism, spiritual wisdom, and emphasis on inner purity and humility.
𓋹 𓋹 𓋹
Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and Gnosis, and to connect deeper with a circle of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, like you…
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Esoteric Meaning of Luke 5:36-39 – New Wineskins Parable of Jesus
Luke 5:36-39 presents Jesus’ parable of the new and old cloth and wineskins:
“No one tears a piece from a new garment and puts it on an old garment. Otherwise, he will both tear the new, and the piece from the new will not match the old. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the new wine will burst the skins, it will be spilled, and the skins will be ruined. But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. And no one after drinking old wine wants the new, for he says, ‘The old is better.’”
This passage has been interpreted in various ways throughout Christian history by scholars, mystics, early church fathers (patristics), and Gnostics.
1. Patristic (Early Church Fathers) Interpretation
The early church fathers generally saw this as a metaphor for the transition from the Old Covenant (Law of Moses) to the New Covenant (Christ’s teachings).
- Irenaeus of Lyons (2nd century) saw the new wine as the gospel of Christ, which could not fit within the rigid structures of the Jewish Law. He emphasized that Jesus was bringing something transformative, which required a new framework (faith in Christ rather than legalistic observance).
- Augustine of Hippo (4th-5th century) interpreted the parable as showing the incompatibility of grace with the old ways of legalism. He believed Jesus was teaching that the new life of the gospel cannot be confined within the structures of the Old Law.
- Cyril of Alexandria (5th century) emphasized the necessity of spiritual renewal—just as new wineskins are flexible, the human heart must be made new through faith in Christ to receive the Holy Spirit.
2. Scholarly (Modern Biblical Exegesis) Interpretation
Contemporary biblical scholars tend to see this passage in light of its historical and literary context:
- The new wine represents the radical message of Jesus—his kingdom teachings, which could not be contained within the rigid system of Jewish legalism.
- The old wineskins symbolize the established religious structures, which were unable to contain the dynamic power of Christ’s message.
- The statement about old wine being better (unique to Luke) could indicate that some people resist change and prefer tradition over transformation.
Some scholars also view this as Jesus subtly warning his followers that embracing the kingdom of God requires a complete transformation, not just an adjustment of old religious habits.
3. Mystical (Mystics and Esoteric Interpretations)
Christian mystics often see this passage as referring to the inner transformation necessary for spiritual awakening:
- Meister Eckhart (13th-14th century) might interpret this as the need for an emptying of the ego (old wineskins) to receive divine illumination (new wine).
- St. John of the Cross (16th century) would likely connect this to the “dark night of the soul,” where old attachments must be shed to make way for deeper union with God.
- Many mystics see this as an invitation to inner renewal, suggesting that spiritual growth requires surrendering old ways of thinking to fully embrace the divine presence.
4. Gnostic Interpretation
Gnostic Christians, who emphasized hidden knowledge (gnosis) and inner transformation, might read this passage allegorically:
- The new wine represents higher spiritual knowledge, which cannot be contained within the “old wineskins” of literalist religious structures.
- The old garment and wineskins symbolize the material world and rigid doctrines, which cannot hold the fullness of divine revelation.
- Some Gnostic texts suggest that Jesus came to liberate people from the constraints of religious law, leading them into a direct, mystical experience of God.
Conclusion
Across these perspectives, there is a common theme: Jesus is introducing something radically new that cannot be contained within the old ways. Whether viewed through the lens of covenant theology, mystical transformation, or esoteric wisdom, Luke 5:36-39 speaks to the necessity of inner and outer renewal in response to divine truth.
Omael – Angel of Healing and Fertility
Omael (אוֹמֵי״ל / עוֹמֵי״ל) is the 30th Shem HaMephorash Angel, corresponding to the Hebrew letters מוא (Aleph–Vav–Mem). His rulership falls under the Sephirah Hod (Mercury’s sphere, the realm of intellect, communication, order, and precision). His planetary influence is Mercury/Jupiter depending on the system, which gives him powers of expansion, growth, and multiplication within structure.
Here are the magical applications of Omael:
✦ General Virtues
- Fertility and Multiplication: Invoked to encourage fruitfulness, abundance, reproduction, and the healthy propagation of plants, animals, and people.
- Medicine & Healing: Especially connected with healing arts, surgery, pharmaceuticals, and therapies that restore vitality.
- Alchemy & Transmutation: Helps in transforming poisons into medicines, despair into hope, and limitations into possibilities.
- Patience & Perseverance: Gives endurance, tolerance, and emotional balance during long or painful trials.
✦ Practical Magical Applications
- Healing Work
- Assists physicians, herbalists, apothecaries, and alchemists in finding correct remedies.
- Supports those who work with natural medicine, tinctures, or healing rituals.
- Can be invoked to speed recovery from illness or surgery.
- Fertility & Creation
- For couples seeking conception or blessing a pregnancy.
- To ensure vitality of crops, livestock, or herbal gardens.
- For artists, musicians, or writers needing inspiration and a “fertile imagination.”
- Alchemy & Transformation
- Guides processes of chemical, spiritual, or psychological transmutation.
- Especially useful for turning adversity into strength.
- Assists in seeing potential where others see failure.
- Protection Against Despair
- Brings hope and light when one feels overwhelmed or in decline.
- Dispels melancholy and excessive severity, replacing it with optimism.
- Provides spiritual endurance in times of testing.
- Expansion & Multiplication
- Blessings for businesses, ventures, or communities that wish to expand naturally and healthily.
- Encourages prosperity without greed—abundance aligned with balance.
✦ Magical Keywords & Correspondences
- Name: Omael / עוֹמֵי״ל
- Shem haMephorash #: 30
- Sephirah: Hod (splendor, order, Mercury)
- Planetary Energy: Mercury (intellect, healing) + Jupiter (expansion, fertility)
- Psalm Verse: Psalm 71:5 — “For You are my hope, O Lord God; You are my trust from my youth.”
- Elemental Quality: Air and subtle Fire (life-force, animating breath, germination spark)
- Zodiac Correspondence: Leo, 15°–20° (approx. Aug 8–12)
✨ In practice:
Magicians call Omael when working with healing rituals, fertility blessings, medicinal preparations, alchemical experiments, and to restore hope during trials. His sigil is used in talismans to promote health, creativity, and fruitful outcomes.
Invocation to Omael (מוא)
Sacred Psalm Verse (to open):
“For You are my hope, O Lord God; You are my trust from my youth.” – Psalm 71:5
Invocation:
O radiant Omael, Angel of Multiplication and Healing,
Bearer of the holy name Mem–Vav–Aleph (מוא),
You who are seated in the splendor of Hod,
Messenger of divine medicine, bringer of fertile life,
I call upon You in reverence and trust.
Grant me patience in trials and endurance in the long path.
Transform despair into hope, poison into remedy,
And scarcity into the fullness of creation.
Bless my body with vitality,
My mind with clarity,
My works with abundance,
And my spirit with renewal.
May Your healing current move through me,
As the spark of Aleph ignites life,
As the breath of Vav binds and sustains,
As the waters of Mem multiply and overflow.
O Omael, radiant minister of the Most High,
Stand beside me in this sacred hour.
Guide my hands in healing,
My heart in compassion,
My soul in the art of divine alchemy.
By Your holy seal and by the Eternal,
Let this work be established in light.
Amen, Amen, Amen.
𓋹 𓋹 𓋹
Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and Gnosis, and to connect deeper with a circle of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, like you…
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The Hymn of the Pearl (Hidden Meaning) from the Acts of Thomas
The Hymn of the Pearl (also called the Hymn of the Soul) is a Gnostic allegory found within the Acts of Thomas, a 3rd-century text. It tells the story of a prince (symbolizing the soul) who is sent from his heavenly home to retrieve a pearl guarded by a serpent, but he falls into forgetfulness and becomes trapped in a foreign land. Eventually, a letter from his divine homeland awakens him, and he reclaims the pearl before returning to his true home.
Gnostic Interpretations of the Serpent and the Pearl
Different Gnostic groups, including the Manichaeans, interpreted these symbols through their dualistic worldview, where spirit (Light) is trapped in the material world (Darkness) and must be liberated through knowledge (gnosis).
1. The Pearl – The Divine Spark (Light)
- The pearl represents the soul’s divine essence—the spark of Light trapped in the material world.
- It is hidden in a foreign land (symbolizing the fallen world), and retrieving it signifies spiritual awakening and redemption.
- This parallels the Manichaean belief that divine Light is scattered and imprisoned in matter, and the purpose of spiritual life is to recollect and return it to the Kingdom of Light.
2. The Serpent – The Ruler of the Material World
Gnostics and Manichaeans often interpreted the serpent in the story as an Archon—a demonic ruler of the material realm, possibly linked to the Demiurge (the false god who created the physical world).
- The serpent is the guardian of the material world, preventing souls from reclaiming their divine inheritance.
- It symbolizes ignorance, illusion, and the forces that keep souls asleep in material existence.
- The prince must overcome the serpent, much like Gnostics believe the soul must overcome the deception of the material world to return to its divine origin.
3. The Forgetfulness – The Fall of the Soul
- In the story, the prince forgets his mission upon arriving in the foreign land, symbolizing how the soul forgets its divine origin when trapped in the body.
- This mirrors the Manichaean and Gnostic belief that souls, when incarnated, are veiled in ignorance and need to be awakened by divine revelation.
4. The Letter from Home – Divine Knowledge (Gnosis)
- The letter that awakens the prince represents gnosis, the hidden knowledge sent from the divine realm to help the soul remember its true nature.
- This is similar to how the Manichaean Jesus (Jesus the Luminous) and other savior figures bring divine wisdom to awaken souls from their sleep of ignorance.
Manichaean Perspective on the Hymn of the Pearl
The Manichaeans deeply resonated with this story because it reflected their core theology:
- The Pearl = The trapped Light in humanity.
- The Serpent = The Prince of Darkness or the rulers of the material world.
- The Foreign Land = The material world, which is a prison for divine souls.
- The Letter from Home = The teachings of Mani, who brings the Light of Knowledge to awaken souls.
For both Gnostic groups and the Manichaeans, the Hymn of the Pearl was an allegory for the soul’s fall into matter, forgetfulness, and eventual redemption through knowledge. The serpent represented the forces that keep the soul trapped, while the pearl symbolized the lost divine Light that must be reclaimed. Ultimately, the hymn is a story of salvation, where the awakened soul returns home to the realm of Light.
How did the Manichaeans interpret the serpent in the garden of Eden?
The Manichaean interpretation of the serpent in the Garden of Eden was radically different from the traditional Christian and Jewish views. Instead of seeing the serpent as an agent of evil or Satan, the Manichaeans often viewed it as a bringer of knowledge—a role similar to what is found in some Gnostic traditions.
1. The Serpent as a Messenger of Light (Positive View)
In many Manichaean texts, the serpent was linked to the Living Spirit or a divine agent that helped humanity recognize their true, spiritual nature. This aligns with their dualistic worldview, where matter (darkness) is a prison for the divine Light, and knowledge (gnosis) is the key to liberation.
- The Tree of Knowledge was not seen as a source of sin, but rather as a gift of wisdom that helped Adam and Eve become aware of their divine Light trapped in matter.
- The serpent, rather than being an enemy, was an enlightener, awakening Adam and Eve to their true, spiritual origins.
- Eating from the tree symbolized gaining knowledge of their imprisonment in the material world, helping them begin their path toward salvation.
This interpretation is similar to some Gnostic traditions, where the serpent is a liberator rather than a deceiver.
2. The Serpent as a Trickster (Negative View)
Some Manichaean texts, however, also include a negative interpretation of the serpent—linking it to the Prince of Darkness or the Archons (rulers of the material world).
- In this version, the serpent seduces Adam and Eve into deeper entrapment within the material world by awakening carnal desires and binding them further to the physical realm.
- This view aligns with their belief that the material world is inherently evil, and sexual reproduction (which leads to more souls being trapped in bodies) was a tool of darkness.
3. The Dual Nature of the Serpent
Some interpretations suggest a dual role for the serpent—both as a revealer of wisdom and as a force of deception. This reflects the broader Manichaean worldview, where forces of Light and Darkness are constantly interwoven in the material world.
For the Manichaeans, the serpent in Eden was not simply a villain. Depending on the context, it was either:
- A bringer of divine wisdom, helping humanity awaken to their spiritual nature, or
- A deceiver, trapping souls further in material existence through desire and reproduction.
This dual interpretation highlights the complexity of Manichaean theology, where even seemingly “evil” figures could sometimes serve a higher, hidden purpose.
The Serpent and Kundalini?
Some esoteric and later Gnostic-influenced traditions, particularly those with connections to Hermeticism, Tantra, and Christian Mysticism, have interpreted the serpent in the Hymn of the Pearl (and in Gnostic thought more broadly) in a way that aligns with kundalini energy—a force that can be both destructive and enlightening, depending on its movement through the spiritual centers (chakras).
Gnostic and Esoteric Interpretations of the Serpent as Kundalini
While classical Gnostic texts do not explicitly mention kundalini, the idea of the serpent as both an obstacle and a source of enlightenment appears in several mystical traditions. This aligns with the dual nature of the serpent—it can either bind the soul in material existence or liberate it into divine gnosis.
1. The Serpent as the Lower Nature (Material Entrapment)
- In some Gnostic and mystical traditions, the serpent at the base of the tree (or guarding the pearl) symbolizes the lower, animalistic nature of humanity.
- This is the base energy, tied to desires, survival instincts, and ignorance (archonic control in Gnostic terms).
- If a person remains in the lower chakras (root, sacral, solar plexus), they remain trapped in illusion, bound by passions, fear, and material existence.
- The serpent “hiding the pearl” could symbolize kundalini energy that remains coiled at the base of the spine, keeping one spiritually asleep.
2. The Serpent as the Illuminating Force (Divine Awakening)
- In advanced esoteric Gnostic and Hermetic interpretations, when the serpent energy (kundalini) is raised upward, it becomes a force of enlightenment and divine wisdom.
- As kundalini ascends through the chakras, it purifies the soul, leading to gnosis (direct knowledge of God or the divine self).
- In this sense, the serpent that once guarded the pearl becomes the guide toward retrieving it.
- When raised to the crown chakra (sahasrara), the serpent transforms into a serpent of light—much like how some Gnostic traditions interpret the serpent in Eden as a revealer of wisdom, rather than a deceiver.
Parallel Gnostic Concepts
- The Tree of Knowledge vs. the Tree of Life – Some Gnostics believed the Tree of Knowledge was not evil but actually a tool for awakening, just like kundalini energy.
- The Basilideans and Naassenes (early Gnostic sects) revered the serpent as a divine force, linking it to wisdom and the Logos.
- The Ophites (Serpent-Worshippers) saw the serpent as Sophia’s wisdom, guiding the soul toward divine knowledge.
- Valentinian Gnostics viewed spiritual transformation as a three-stage process (Hylic, Psychic, and Pneumatic), similar to kundalini rising through the chakras.
Conclusion: The Serpent’s Dual Role in Gnosis and Kundalini Awakening
In this interpretation, the serpent starts as a barrier (ignorance, materialism) but transforms into a teacher (wisdom, enlightenment) once kundalini is raised. If a person remains in the lower chakras, they are stuck in passions and illusion (the serpent of deception). But if they raise their consciousness, the serpent becomes the force of illumination, unlocking the pearl of great price—the divine spark within.
This aligns with both Gnostic and esoteric Hindu views, where the serpent (kundalini) can either bind or liberate the soul.
Gnostic verses about the serpent from the Gnostic Gospels
“…the serpent was wiser than all the animals that were in Paradise, and he persuaded Eve… ‘On the day when you eat from the tree in the middle of Paradise the eyes of your mind will be opened.’”
From The Testimony of Truth
(This Gnostic work reinterprets the Eden narrative, casting the serpent not as an antagonist, but as a liberator of humanity)
“Be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” (Saying 39)
From The Gospel of Thomas
(This saying encourages discernment and cunning (serpentine wisdom), balanced with purity (dove-like innocence), illustrating the nuanced spiritual approach characteristic of Gnostic thought.)
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Five Trees of Paradise in the Gospel of Thomas (According to the Manichaeans)
The concept of the Five Trees of Paradise appears in the Gospel of Thomas (saying 19) and is also found in various Gnostic, Jewish, and early Christian mystical traditions. While the Manichaeans did not explicitly comment on the Gospel of Thomas, they had their own interpretations of celestial structures, spiritual realms, and divine elements that align with the idea of the Five Trees.
Possible Manichaean Interpretations of the Five Trees
Manichaean cosmology centers around the struggle between Light and Darkness, with divine elements descending into the material world to redeem the trapped Light. Their version of paradise—often called the Kingdom of Light—had sacred components that could correspond to the Five Trees:
- The Five Light Elements – In Manichaean doctrine, the Father of Greatness (the supreme deity) emanated five divine elements or limbs of Light, which were used in the battle against Darkness:
- Light
- Air
- Fire
- Water
- Wind (or Ether)
These five elements structured the higher realms and might be linked to the “trees” as sustaining forces of paradise.
- The Five Shekhinas (Glories of the Father) – In some Manichaean texts, the Father of Greatness manifests through five divine beings, or Shekhinas, who aid in the salvation of Light. These could symbolize the Five Trees as aspects of divine wisdom and power.
- The Five Worlds of Light – Manichaeans also described five heavenly realms that constitute the Kingdom of Light, each ruled by a divine figure. These realms could be understood as the Five Trees, representing different aspects of divine knowledge and salvation.
- The Five Virtues of Liberation – Some scholars suggest the Five Trees could correspond to spiritual virtues necessary for escaping material bondage, such as:
- Truth
- Wisdom
- Love
- Faith
- Purity
Since Manichaean teachings were deeply influenced by Gnosticism, they likely viewed the Five Trees of Paradise as divine forces related to enlightenment, the liberation of Light, and the return of the soul to its celestial home.
The Manichaeans had a cosmological and spiritual concept involving five trees, which were associated with divine wisdom and salvation. In Manichaean texts, these trees are linked to the Five Limbs of the Father of Greatness, representing aspects of divine presence that help redeem the trapped Light in the material world.
The Five Trees in Manichaean Cosmology
These five trees symbolize divine attributes or cosmic principles within the Kingdom of Light:
- The Tree of Life – Representing the divine essence of vitality and immortality, ensuring that the Light is never extinguished.
- The Tree of Knowledge (Reason or Understanding) – Symbolizing divine wisdom, intellect, and enlightenment, guiding souls toward truth.
- The Tree of Thought – Reflecting the contemplative and meditative aspect of divine knowledge, allowing for inner realization.
- The Tree of Wisdom – Often associated with the teachings of the Living Spirit, helping souls discern truth from illusion.
- The Tree of Strength (or Power) – Representing divine authority and the ability to overcome Darkness, sustaining the spiritual world.
Connection to Gnostic and Biblical Traditions
Manichaean teachings often reinterpreted existing religious symbols. The Tree of Knowledge in the Garden of Eden was sometimes seen as a positive symbol of divine wisdom (contrary to orthodox Christian readings). Likewise, these five trees could parallel the Five Trees of Paradise mentioned in the Gospel of Thomas (saying 19), which Jesus describes as eternal and unshakable.
Purpose in Manichaean Thought
These trees were more than just symbols—they represented divine forces actively working to liberate the Light trapped in matter. By aligning oneself with these aspects (wisdom, reason, strength, etc.), a person could achieve gnosis and eventual salvation.
The Tree of Reason (or Tree of Knowledge) was one of the five, and it played a central role in the Manichaean path to enlightenment.
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Book Review – Embraced by the Light by Betty J. Eadie
Betty J. Eadie’s Embraced by the Light is more than just an account of a near-death experience—it’s a deeply personal spiritual testimony that has resonated with millions since its first publication in 1992. Written with sincerity and gentle conviction, Eadie’s memoir recounts her journey after undergoing surgery at age 31, when she clinically died and experienced what she describes as an encounter with the afterlife.
Get the book on Amazon here.
The book opens with a straightforward recounting of her life before the experience—her childhood, family, and personal struggles—setting a grounded and relatable foundation. Eadie then describes her death, the sensation of leaving her body, and the overwhelming love she felt upon meeting what she identifies as Jesus Christ. Her narrative blends vivid imagery with an emotional openness, painting scenes of luminous landscapes, spiritual beings, and an unshakable sense of peace.
What stands out is not just the description of the afterlife, but the life lessons Eadie says she received: the importance of love, forgiveness, and living with purpose. She shares insights on why hardships occur, how souls grow, and the interconnectedness of humanity—messages that many readers have found comforting in times of grief or uncertainty.
However, Embraced by the Light is not without controversy. Skeptics question the verifiability of her claims, and some theological circles challenge her descriptions as inconsistent with orthodox doctrine. Yet, Eadie never frames her story as an argument; it’s a personal witness account, intended to inspire rather than to persuade through evidence.
Stylistically, the prose is plainspoken and accessible, which serves the intimacy of her story but occasionally leans toward repetition. The book’s emotional impact, though, is undeniable—many have called it life-changing, while others have simply found it thought-provoking.
Verdict:
Embraced by the Light is best read not as a theological treatise but as an intimate spiritual memoir. Whether one approaches it with faith, curiosity, or skepticism, its core message—that love is the ultimate truth—remains universal. For readers interested in near-death experiences, personal spirituality, or stories that explore life beyond the physical, Eadie’s account is a heartfelt and influential contribution to the genre.
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Get the book now on Amazon here.
Seehiah / Sehaiah – Angel of Healing, Foresight, Longevity & Soul Mates
Angel Seehiah — שמ Ha-Mephorash Angel #28
- Name (Hebrew): שאהיה, Seehiah – often interpreted as “God Who Took Away Evil” or “God Who Heals the Sick.”
- Role: Member of the Dominions, one of the celestial angelic hierarchies.
Magical Applications & Qualities
Seehiah is a powerful angel of healing, foresight, and longevity. Here’s what he’s known to assist with:
- Protection & Purification: Shields from fires, accidents, illness, disasters, and destructive forces.
- Healing & Longevity: Grants health, strength, recovery, and a long, balanced life.
- Foresight & Wisdom: Enhances prudence, premonition, wise judgment, and the capacity to learn from past experiences.
Associated Psalm
- Psalm Verse: Psalm 71:12 — “O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste for my help.”
- Connection: Commonly used as a verse to invoke or align with Seehiah’s influence.
Sephirah on the Tree of Life & Divine Name
- Associated Sefirah: Chesed — the sphere of benevolence and mercy. Seehiah is said to belong to the beatitude of Chesed and is under Archangel Zadkiel.
- Divine Name Root: His name derives from one of the 72 Names of God (the Shem HaMephorash)—three-letter permutations extracted from Exodus 14:19–21.
How to Work with Seehiah
To invoke Seehiah’s aid, practitioners may:
- Meditate on Psalm 71:12 while focusing on healing, foresight, and protection.
- Invoke the angel in rituals for physical or spiritual healing, longevity, or avoiding risks.
- Integrate elements of Chesed—kindness, generosity, mercy—into their intention or prayer framework.
Invocation of שאה – Seehiah for August 7
Sacred Preparation:
Light a blue or white candle (color of Chesed and divine mercy). Place a bowl of clean water and a sprig of rosemary or sage nearby for purification. Sit facing the east, symbolizing renewal and clarity.
Invocation:
שאה – Seehiah,
Angel of foresight, guardian against disaster,
messenger of mercy from the sphere of Chesed.On this day, the 7th of August, under your watchful light,
I call to you by the Holy Name of God
יוד־הא־ואו־הא (Yod-Heh-Vav-Heh)—
Eternal One, hasten to my aid.“O God, be not far from me; O my God, make haste for my help.” (Psalm 71:12)
Seehiah, healer of body and soul,
shield me from fire, accident, and hidden peril.
Grant me health, resilience, and the wisdom
to act with prudence in all I do.Let the waters of life wash away fear,
and let the light of mercy
guide my steps in truth and compassion.By your blessing, may foresight dwell within me,
and the shadow of harm be far from my path.Amen. Amen. Amen.
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