A Treasury of Terms and Thoughts

from the
Agni Yoga Teachings







AGNI YOGA SOCIETY, NEW YORK
2002







First Edition 1992
Second Edition 2002
Copyright © 1992, 2002
Agni Yoga Society, Inc.


No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission from the publisher.









Publisher's Note


The purpose of this Treasury is to assist students of the Teachings. It is designed to be a living work that will continue to be refined and expanded over time. To this end we invite you to participate by contributing references and suggestions. Our intent is that this book will become increasingly helpful through continued refinement.


Entries without citations are working definitions that we have developed. All other entries are presented as they appear in the sources-capitalization, punctuation, quotations, italics, etc. are as found; for that reason spelling may differ from entry to entry.


Please direct any comments or suggestions regarding the Treasury to the
Agni Yoga Society, 319 West 107th Street, New York, NY 10025.


Abhidharma - (Sk.). From Buddhist metaphysics. The light of Abhidharma signifies the highest consciousness, Buddhi-manas. (LHR I, p 496)

	The light of Abhidharma is the combination of the fire of higher spheres with the radiation of the consciousness. (AY, 498)

Abodes of the Brotherhood - Let the heights of the Caucasus, Altai, and Himalayas be the abodes of the Beautiful Brotherhood. (BR, 361)
	see also Brotherhood, Hierarchy

Abramram - When you hear the word Abramram, it will be a reminder about the center of the Chalice, where is concentrated the straight-knowledge predestined for the future evolution. (AY, 596)
	see also Chalice

Absentation - Amidst deeply engrossing occupations you have more than once felt a sudden expenditure of energy. Even during the most absorbing labors you might have sensed an inexplicable absentation. A perceptive disciple values these flights of consciousness. (BR, 603)
	see also Cloud of Cognition

Absent-mindedness - May be due to the tension of the cosmic currents absorbing one's psychic energy. (BR, 517)

Absolute - see Parabrahman

Abyss of Vortices - There could have been noticed extraordinary spatial currents of such tension that they overpowered mental sendings. This manifestation is rare, and the more should it be noted. Raging spatial currents do not continue for long, therefore it is very instructive to observe them. They cannot be prolonged, or they would produce a catastrophe. Equilibrium in itself can resist them, yet each such moment is dangerous. We call this the abyss of vortices. (BR, 313)

Acceleration - Acceleration, as well as retardation, proceeds in waves. Therefore, when perceiving a wave of acceleration one must succeed in casting into it as many seeds as possible. (LMG II, p 128)

Accumulations - The principle of cumulation lies in spirit-creativeness. (INF II, 114)

A sensitive Agni Yogi knows all paths to the realization of Infinity. The spirit-knowledge reads the Book of Life, and the wisdom of ages is deposited as accumulations in the Chalice. (INF II, 500)

The magnet of the spirit, this propellent aggregator of the life energies, is nurtured by the manifestation of the cosmic energy. The accumulations in the Chalice gather around the seed of the spirit, enveloping it in their colors. The very striving seed of the spirit responds to the fiery impulsion. Thus, the magnet of the spirit of an Agni Yogi is the creative sower of the affirmed fires. Verily, the sower of cosmic fires into the consciousness of men is a true co-worker of Cosmos. (INF II, 35)
see also Chalice

Achievement - Achievement is not renunciation; it is containment and movement. (LMG II, p 176)

	The Golden Path, the combining path, affirms both qualities-achievement and caution. Otherwise all would be driven to suicide. Achievement is created in full consciousness and responsibility. (BR, 155)

Action - If an action is small, it needs the help of various handmade objects. But when the action becomes great it can dispense with earthly objects. This is the first touchstone of action. ...
	The second quality of action is its mobility. Like a whirlwind of primary matter, a true action must vibrate with possibilities. Only a flight can crown a luminous manifested thought.
	The third quality of action is its unexpectedness. Every action which has astounded the minds of the people was the result of an unexpected way of thinking.
	The fourth quality of action is its elusiveness. Only this quality protects the action against destructiveness.
	The fifth quality of action is its convincingness. As every lightning flash connects our consciousness with the Cosmos, so each action should strike like a flashing sword.
	The sixth quality of action is its lawfulness. Only the consciousness of the fundamentals of the world evolution can advance the action immutably.
	The seventh quality of action is its pure motive. By this path one can move weighty loads without fatigue. (LMG II, p 197)

Adaptability - Adaptability is the best means for conservation of forces… The development of adaptability actually takes place in the current of life. To all is known the sensation of the boundaries of spheres… Sternly accustom yourselves to reception of contrasting sensations, to the grasping of unexpectedness. All is expected, because all is realized. (COM, 245)

Aditi - (Sk.). The Vedic name for the Mulaprakriti of the Vedantists; the abstract aspect of Parabrahman, though both unmanifested and unknowable. In the Vedas Aditi is the "Mother-Goddess", her terrestrial symbol being infinite and shoreless space. (TG)

	The first differentiation in the periodic manifestations of eternal Nature, sexless and infinite, is Aditi in "That", or the potential space inside the abstract Space. In its next manifestation it appears as the divine immaculate Mother-Nature within the all-embracing absolute Infinity. Thus, Space is called "Mother" until its cosmic activity begins, and Father-Mother in its first stage of awakening. (LHR I, pp 487-488)

Age - Honored is old age in a body with a clear consciousness; for in the essential nature there is then no old age. (COM, 144)

Agni - (Sk.). The God of Fire in the Veda; the oldest and the most revered of Gods in India. (TG)

	It is astonishing to what a degree some remember instances from their past lives, whereas others have completely lost all memories of their former accumulations. A karmic cause does not completely explain such a marked difference in the understanding of life. Truly, the deciding factor in such understanding lies not in the circumstances of former lives, but in the acceptance of Agni. People call such wisdom a talent, but it is no special talent to keep Agni alight. Only the kindling of the centers produces uninterrupted vigilance of consciousness. Even a partial manifestation of Agni already preserves the accumulations inviolate. Agni is no violator, but our friend. It must be explained that the ascent of the spirit is indeed a manifestation of Agni. (FW I, 516)

Fire is at the very threshold! One must call to mind how it is to be encountered, and one must understand that only Agni, psychic energy, can be the interpreter at the approach of Fire. (FW I, 567)
see also Agni Yoga, Psychic Energy

Agni Yoga - Deals with the highest fiery transmutations of all centers which cannot be achieved by any mechanical methods but requires the direct controlling influence of the Great Teacher. The high attainment of Agni Yoga can be reached only by a spirit which possesses age-long spiritual accumulations, collected in the center of the Chalice. Another thing that is characteristic of Agni Yoga is that its achievement must be attained during everyday life, while all the other Yogas (except Karma Yoga) demand isolation from ordinary life and thus are not sufficient for the present and future evolution.

	Agni Yoga is a synthesis of all Yogas. In all the ancient Hindu scriptures the approaching Fiery Epoch has been predicted. It is said that Agni-the Fire that is found in varying degrees at the foundation of all Yogas will saturate the atmosphere of our planet tremendously, and all the branches of Yoga will be fused into a fiery synthesis. Verily, Agni Yoga is a fiery baptism. (LHR I, p 411)

At first you were shown the crudely material laws. You participated in levitation and in experiments of materialization and transmission of objects. This was performed not for attraction, but for austere knowledge. After that you were shown the astral world, but not for immersion in it. Expanding the consciousness, you received the possibility of knowing the auras and images of incarnations. Finishing with the semi-material world, we have approached cosmic clairvoyance and clairaudience. Using the opened centers of Sister Urusvati, rays of different properties and the structure of finest substances could be shown. Thus we approached the realization of far-off worlds, which is close to the element of fire and therefore dangerous. Hence the regime of cold was needed. The results were brilliant. Without specific shocks to the organism, it was possible to demonstrate the granulation of Fohat, in other words, to receive the so-called prismatic sight.
	Why is it important to sense the manifestation of Fohat? The granulation of this finest energy is laid in the foundation of cosmic coagulations. It means that precisely Fohat will be the father that gives the impetus to the formation of new spatial bodies. He who attains the knowledge of far-off worlds will feel the strength and beauty of the crystals of Fohat. This is a difficult experiment, and We rejoice, because the physical body rarely assimilates the finest energies. (AY, 145)
see also Teachings

Ahamkara - (Sk.). The high condition of consciousness during the opening and unification of the higher centers. This concept is the opposite of that of the lower condition of selfhood which is also sometimes called "Ahamkara".
	(LHR I, p 401)

	The high state of the fiery seed when it can already affirm itself without egoism. Thus the Fiery Gates are opened when not only is egoism burned away but a worthy evaluation of self is achieved. Only then can the spirit verily bring its sole heritage to the altar of Light. (FW I, 602)

	The conception of "I", Self-consciousness or Self-identity; the "I", egotistical and mayavic principle in man, due to our ignorance which separates our "I" from the Universal ONE-SELF Personality, Egoism. (TG)

Akasa - (Sk.). The subtle, supersensuous spiritual essence which pervades all space; the primordial substance erroneously identified with Ether. But it is to Ether what Spirit is to Matter, or Atma to Kama-rupa. It is, in fact, the Universal Space in which lies inherent the eternal Ideation of the Universe in its ever-changing aspects on the planes of matter and objectivity, and from which radiates the First Logos, or expressed thought. This is why it is stated in the Puranas that Akasa has but one attribute, namely sound, for sound is but the translated symbol of Logos - "Speech" in its mystic sense. (TG)

	My Teaching can disclose the waves of the tested Akasa. (AY, 9)

Akbar - The great Mogul Emperor of India, the famous patron of religions, arts, and sciences, the most liberal of all the Mussulman sovereigns. There has never been a more tolerant or enlightened ruler than the Emperor Akbar, either in India or in any other Mahometan country. (TG)

A-lal-Ming - When Tibet's spiritual teacher, A-lal Ming,
	was striving towards the mountains
	where first the Lord appeared to Him,
	He still remained in the valley and accepted the chalice. (LMG I, 353)

Amrita - The ambrosial drink or food of the gods; the food giving immortality. The elixir of life churned out of the ocean of milk in the Puranic allegory. An old Vedic term applied to the sacred Soma juice in the Temple Mysteries. (TG)
	see also Chalice of Amrita

Anemia - Is a result of an outflow of psychic energy. (BR, 473)

Anguish - How can a sensitive spirit avoid the onset of world anguish? There has never been a case of a man being able to detach himself in spirit from the earthly plane without contraction of his nerve centers, exactly like that of the daring aviator who feels a singular tremor in his heart upon detaching himself from the Earth. (LMG I, 83)

In the achievements of the future, special attention must be paid to the coordination of the development of the spirit and the bodily condition. The body has difficulty in overtaking the spirit; attacks of anguish occur when the spirit is raised to heights. (AY, 383)

The growth of consciousness is accompanied by spasms of anguish, and this is verily unavoidable. The non-conformity of Infinity with earthly reality can but call forth the feeling of a just realization. There is no way to Infinity without sensing all surroundings. Be assured that the greater the consciousness, the greater the anguish. (AY, 568)

Dissatisfaction and anguish often are a response to the call of Space. (INF I, 78)

Do not be disturbed by anguish, it comes from fire. (HIER, 305)

The heart is a temple, but not an abode of idols. Thus We are not against the construction of a temple, but We object to fetishism and to bazaars. Likewise, when We speak of constructing a temple like a heart, We do not mean that it be of heart-shaped design. We speak of its inner significance. A temple cannot exist without realization of the infinite chain; so, too, the heart contacts all the sensations of the Cosmos. The heart's anguish or joy interresounds with the far-off spheres. Why, then, is anguish sensed more often than joy? Of course, the constant cosmic perturbations agitate the heart that adheres to them. Therefore is the service of such a heart so great upon the scales of the world. Help the structure of the world! There is neither a day nor an hour when the world is not in danger! Two eyes alone cannot foresee these dangers, but only three, as upon the Banner of the Lords! One must comprehend the temple of the heart as an imminent sensation. Not without cause was the heart marked by the sign of the cross. Thus, the sign of the cross eternally accompanied the temple of the heart. (H, 4)

The heart anguish comes ... from straining for luminous desires. Heart-anguish primarily fills our being with the substance of power. Naturally, the sculpture of Akasa is not always connected with heart pangs, but a feeling of anguish reveals, in any case, tension and cooperation with the Primary Thought-Frame. (H, 51)

Resounding on the cosmic note can be transmitted spatially to the spirit which perceives the subtle currents. Among the subtle manifestations of such reverberations of the spirit must be especially noticed those which are audible to the fiery spirit. How vital it is to hearken to that apparently inaudible tone which can transmit to the spirit spatial joy or anguish. The manifestation of inexplicable anguish can derive from the sounding of a spatial tone. The subtle organism of this bearer of Fires shudders from these notes of space. The physical ear cannot hear it, but the subtle hearing detects that which is inaudible to the ear and receives it in the heart. Therefore, the striving spirit is a creator in unison with the Cosmos, and knows the cosmic soundings which intensify space. In them is contained summons or call; in them is victory or battle; in them is sorrow or joy. Verily, he who knows these soundings and experiences the joy and anguish of communion with space, may be called a great fire-bearer. To this the fiery heart of the Mother of Agni Yoga bears witness. Thus let us remember the great unified Heart. (FW III, 187)

Often community members ask whence come the assaults of anguish which they sometimes experience. One must know that without these spasms of anguish no progress is possible. After crossing over a precipice you feel a weakening of the leg muscles. During the expansion of consciousness you cross over many invisible precipices. Nodal growths of the consciousness result in leaps and psychic spasms contract the nerve centers. One should not be afraid of these spasms, a brief rest will right these contractions. Growth of the consciousness is more difficult to trace than the growth of a hair. The consciousness conquers and eradicates. The burning of crossed bridges does not reveal the progressive sign-posts, but it leaves open the one possibility of assault. It is valuable not only to strive forward but also to destroy the rubbish behind one. Just now you perceive how the majority of people could have advanced, but they cling to age-old rubbish. Guard both My signs-the sign of Service and the sign of Community. One is breaking away from the old, the other is evolution.
(COM, 184)
see also Heart

Anonymity - Anonymity remains the ideal of true evolution. This is one of the conditions of realization of the brevity of earthly existence, and it is the best way to successful cooperation. (COM, 176)

Antakarana - (Sk.). In the East, the technique of communication between the lower and the higher Manas is called Antakarana, or bridge, or path. By this, the lower ego, in its turn, extends to the higher Ego all those impressions and thoughts which can be assimilated (due to their high quality) with our eternal beings, thus becoming immortal accumulations of our Chalice. (LHR I, p 473)

Anura - The manifestation of Anura-in other words, charm of the heart-is very highly valued. It belongs among the cumulative and undefinable qualities. Anura is charm of the heart, or regal heart. It can be seen how from one's childhood this charm unfolds, sometimes even as a burden to oneself, because people of differing tensions confuse the rhythm. (H, 489)

Appollonius of Tyana - (Gr.). A wonderful philosopher born in Cappadocia about the beginning of the first century; an ardent Pythagorean, who studied the Phoenician sciences under Euthydemus; and Pythagorean philosophy and other studies under Euxenus of Heraclea. According to the tenets of this school he remained a vegetarian the whole of his long life, fed only on fruit and herbs, drank no wine, wore vestments made only of plant-fibres, walked barefooted, and let his hair grow to its full length, as all the Initiates before and after him. He was initiated by the priests of the temple of Asclepios at Aegae, and learnt many of the "miracles" for healing the sick wrought by the god of medicine. Having prepared himself for a higher initiation by a silence of five years, and by travel, visiting Antioch, Ephesus, Pamphylia and other parts, he journeyed via Babylon to India. ... At Babylon he was initiated by the Chaldees and Magi. After his return from India, he shewed himself a true Initiate, in that the pestilences and earthquakes, deaths of kings and other events, which he prophesied duly happened. At Lesbos, the priests of Orpheus, being jealous of him, refused to initiate him into their peculiar mysteries, though they did so several years later. He preached to the people of Athens and other cities the purest and noblest ethics, and the phenomena he produced were as wonderful as they were numerous and well attested. ... After crossing the Hindu Kush, Appollonius had been directed by a king to the abode of the Sages, ... by whom he was taught unsurpassed knowledge. His dialogues with the Corinthian Menippus indeed give us the esoteric catechism and disclose many an important mystery of nature. Appollonius was the friend, correspondent and guest of kings and queens, and no marvelous or "magic" powers are better attested than his. At the end of his long and wonderful life he opened an esoteric school at Ephesus, and died aged almost one hundred years. (TG)

Arhat - (Sk.). "The worthy one", lit., "deserving divine honours". This was the name first given to the Jain and subsequently to the Buddhist holy men initiated into the esoteric mysteries. The Arhat is one who has entered the best and highest path, and is thus emancipated from re-birth. (TG)

	For the achievement of true immortality, in other words, for the maintaining of consciousness on all the four planes of existence, and for becoming an Arhat, it is essential to connect, precisely in the physical body, the fourth, fifth, and seventh principles and fuse them in the sixth-Buddhi. All the qualities of the basic energy, being separately transmuted by its fire, must be harmonized and expressed in the highest quality of psychic energy. (LHR I, p 473)

Armageddon - The great decisive Battle between the Forces of Light and darkness. It was predicted in all the ancient scriptures, and the name, "Armageddon" as well as the description of it, can be found in the Apocalypse. The year 1936 is indicated as most significant. It is interesting to note that these calculations are also found in the pyramid of Cheops. Thus, today we find ourselves in the midst of this Battle, which will increase. This Battle is still more fearful in the Subtle World, but eventually its reflections will be intensified on the earthly plane. Great is the tension of space, and the tensed fiery energies are surging in the subterranean and superterranean spheres, threatening an explosion. Verily, the planet is in convulsion. The time is most ominous. Verily, we are facing an incredible world catastrophe. As it is said, "The hostile elements of the race refuse to submit to destiny. The departing race seeks to destroy the chosen successors, but we must save them. Destiny may be eased and the Battle ended sooner." So far, there are no signs of easement. But the ark of the sixth race is already being built. Let us trust that it will be larger than that of Noah.
	(LHR I, p 325)

	The essence of Armageddon lies not only in the exhaustion of old causes but also in the establishment of new ones. (BR, 146)

Armor of Light - Investigators of psychic energy can bear witness that the evidences of the energy are infallible. ... The primary energy cannot show the negative to be positive. Such purely scientific evidence protects people against an evil approach. Not without foundation is such discrimination called the armor of Light. (BR, 28)

	That same salutary energy which purifies the consciousness also creates an armor. (BR, 240)
	see also Protective Net, Shield

Arrows - In all Teachings the dark forces are represented as shooting their fiery arrows at the Illumined One. This battle is depicted in beautiful symbols. No less beautifully is it indicated that the malevolent arrows do not reach their target but form a protective net. Let us not regard this heedlessly; this symbol is entirely realistic, even from the viewpoint of modern science. The malevolent flame encounters the great fire of the heart and becomes subservient, only augmenting the Agni of the Great Spirit. Thus, the heart which manifests all its power is invincible. (FW I, 650)

Aryavarta - (Sk.). The northern part of India. Valleys in the Himalayas where the emigrants of Central Asia established their homes after the disaster of Atlantis. Translated, it means "The Country of the Aryans." (LHR I, p 427)

Ashrams - (Sk.). If we look on our planet from above, we will observe, besides the evident volcanoes, particular vortices of light and darkness. The human spirit can create powerful manifestations of energy. One may state that the vortices of Light are saviors of the equilibrium of the planet. Nor is it far from the truth to state that the vortices of darkness contain a destructive gas, which is not only deadly to the crust of the planet but can alter the climate and even significantly effect a shifting of the poles. Thus powerful is the significance of the human spirit. Hence We treasure the Ashrams where purified Agni is gathered. Many teachings have pointed out the importance of pure places where psychic energy can be affirmed. References to the importance of pure places are found in the Sacred Writings, in the Bible, and in the Rig-Veda; the Tao likewise contains knowledge of these treasure-places of Earth. We rejoice when We notice the rise of new Ashrams, for people so seldom think of the power of their spirits!
	(FW I, 664)

	Verily, Ashrams have a great importance for the earthly and for the Subtle World. Ashrams may be defined as magnets and ozonators. Being filled with heart energy provides a conduit for many things. (FW II, 203)

Assistance - Is it possible to imagine how diversely is assistance given? It should not be thought that the means of assistance are limited only to the methods of charitable institutions. The best help arrives unexpectedly, but one must accept it. There are many meetings; there are many unknown letters; many unexpected books are sent, as if by chance. Over many years, he who possesses a searching mind will compare these strange incidents, and if he is not devoid of a sense of gratitude, he will send his thankfulness to the unknown Guardians. (BR, 572)

	People talk much about the aid that should issue from Our Dwelling. Let us analyze the capacity of people to accept this help. Each person who dreams of assistance has already defined selfishly the direction and measure of it. Can an elephant find room in a low cellar? But the seeker of help considers neither the proportion nor the suitability of it. Lilies should flower during wintertime, and in the desert a spring must burst forth; otherwise the Teacher's merit is small.
	"But, maker of the desert and lord of the cold, you created your own thirst and shudder from the cold of your own heart. My spring remained beyond your vision and you did not turn to regard My flowers. You encrusted your way with selfishness and found time only to guard your cherished soles from the thorns which you yourself grew. My help took flight like a startled bird. My messenger hastens back, and white Lobnor bays mournfully. My help is rejected."
	But the traveler continues dully to call for help, and directs his attention to the site of his future destruction. Therefore We always advise alertness, flexibility, open-mindedness. Otherwise one cannot keep in step with reality. (AY, 164)

Astral Qualities - They (astral qualities) exactly correspond to the five senses which function in the earthly body plus the sixth (the straight-knowledge, or so-called intuition, which is still rare), and then the seventh (synthesis, or spirituality). The astral feelings exist in the same way as the physical but as their subtle counterparts. It is impossible to separate them; unity manifests its harmony. There is a complete correspondence between the subtle and the physical bodies. Therefore, the axiom "as above, so below" must always be borne in mind.
	But indeed, just as the outward feelings are manifested only when there are conditions suitable for them, even so, the inner spiritual abilities are manifested when the astral or spiritual conditions are created on the inner plane. The outer world is only a reflection of the inner one. (LHR I, pp 253-254)

Atlantis - (Gr.). The continent that was submerged in the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans according to the secret teachings and Plato. (TG)

Atma, Atman - (Sk.) Are often mentioned as synonomous. Exoterically, they manifest the seventh principle which is the eternal vital force spread throughout the whole Cosmos. But esoterically Atma often means The World Soul.
	(LHR I, p 439)

	Atma must be understood as the energy of space purified by unceasing rotation, like a great churning. One must understand how the spirit and Atma cooperate like electron and proton. (HIER, 241)

	The Universal Spirit, the divine Monad, the 7th Principle, so-called, in the septenary constitution of man. The Supreme Soul. (TG)

Augoeides - (Gr.). Bulwer Lytton calls it the "Luminous Self", or our Higher Ego. But Occultism makes of it something distinct from this. It is a mystery. The Augoeides is the luminous divine radiation of the Ego which, when incarnated, is but its shadow-pure as it is yet. This is explained in the Amshaspends and their Ferouers. (TG)

AUM - (Sk.). The sacred syllable, the triple-lettered unit; hence the trinity in one. (TG)

	Why say Aum, when it is possible to say prayer? In substance they are the same, but because of its antiquity and refinement the sound Aum will be the stronger in its vibration. (AUM, 25)

	Besides the many definitions of the word AUM let us recollect that: A is Thought-the Basis; U is Light-the Primary Cause; M is Mystery-the Sacred.
	(AUM, 132)

Aura - (Gr. & Lat.). A subtle invisible essence or fluid that emanates from human and animal bodies and even from things. ... It is called in Theosophy the akasic or magnetic aura. (TG).

	Many qualities are inherent in the aura. They are measured not only according to the size of the aura, but also by its inner tension. Indeed, the highly tensed aura is both the best shield and the most potent influence on its surroundings or environment. Sometimes radiations are good in color, but are not sufficiently intense.
Strengthening of the aura occurs through communion with the Higher World, as egoism falls away and selflessness is kindled. Thus, each communion with the Higher World will induce a strengthening of radiations. (AUM, 121)

	Let us speak of the auras.
The egg-shaped aura is natural to the astral body. The most usual, the narrow aura, which emanates from the entire body, extends outward about two inches. In accordance with the degree of spirituality, it begins to expand from the upper nerve centers. Starting from the solar plexus, it afterwards rises toward the brain centers, forming the so-called solar aura. Influxes of blood are characteristic of the transposition of the aura, when the current of tension shifts its pressure. Even fainting spells are possible. Finally, the radiation leaves the lower extremities and forms a surrounding ring. The organism while yet in the midst of life becomes acutely sensitive, especially to sounds and colors. The utmost tranquility is needed during this transitory period. The solar aura may be of ten or fifteen inches, and of course its dimensions may increase.
	In spite of the discomfort of transposition of the aura, one may congratulate him who has acquired the upper radiation. The opportunity for repose should be cautiously created. Later on a seeming new armor grows, as the nerves of the skin become strengthened. One cannot exactly divide the physical and the spiritual. The balance fluctuates and the waves travel over the organism. This must not be called a malady, but the organism must be assisted every moment to fortify itself in its new condition. (LMG II, pp 50-51)

	Small as well as important events strike upon the aura, as upon musical strings. The growing aura has its advantages, and these Aeolian wings multifariously resound. The burden of the world plays its symphonies upon them. One cannot say that a man illumined by the aura is motionless. The outer shell of the aura is like a surging sea. What a task for the scientist-to trace the nourishment of the aura from within and the reflection from without. Verily, a world battle!
	The symbol of the burden of the world is a man carrying a sphere. All complex sensations are increased to the point of pain. An impression can be received as being between the hammer and an anvil. Therefore, the attainment of the rainbow aura is so practical, because it carries within itself the means of assimilation of all that exists. Even the best monochromatic auras must quench the conflagrations by themselves, drawing from their own ocean. Whereas a rainbow aura easily repels and takes in the rays. (LMG II, pp 77-78)

	The vulnerability resulting from injury to the aura is terrible. One can imagine how one breach in the aura leads to the mutilation of its entire structure. Drowsiness, which can be noted when the aura is rent, originates from the consistently increased activity of the fiery energy when directed toward external radiations. During the process of restoration, the organism, and especially the heart action, is in a state of depression. For this reason I deem caution necessary in one's actions as well as during the counterblows. During the battle why should one burden the hearts of friends? One could perform numerous experiments revealing how the violation of the radiations has actually been reflected upon the heart. People accept with reluctance advice about observing caution in regard to their own radiations; but even prior to their being photographed, science is already aware of the existence of these radiations from every object. One should have full respect for the human organism and understand that each shock harms the astral body primarily. Besides, if organisms have worked together for a long time in unity, they can injure each other even more severely. And such injury will be not only of each other, but also will be reflected upon others near to them. One should therefore most assiduously eliminate all conflicts. One can visualize a dark legion which makes an onslaught upon each break in the aura. It is dreadful to feed such vermin with the inner layers of radiations. The protective net alone blocks the attack of the dark forces. Each breach in the aura also threatens one with obsession. Let us therefore be even more cautious. (FW I, 520)
	see also Auric Egg, Protective Net

Auric Egg - The seventh and sixth principles form the so-called magnetic field or auric egg. Thus by the width and emanations of the aura it is possible to determine the high standing or quality of the spirit. (LHR I, p 485)

Austerity of Labor - The very austerity of labor can acquire a beautiful meaning by the elimination of all coarsening effects and the introduction of the concept of cooperation. (BR, 58)

	Austerity of labor has nothing in common with a censorious attitude. Only limited people condemn. Not out of condemnation is perfection born. (BR, 41)

Authenticity - Authenticity creates power, authenticity does not fear. Following authenticity one may be assured as to timeliness of decision and amplitude of means. (COM, 194)

Avakara - (Sk.). You know and understand the lofty concept "Avatar", but in order to attain it, it is needful to become "Avakara"-the fierily inspired. (COM, 180)

Avalokiteshvara - (Sk.). "The on-looking Lord". In the exoteric interpretation, he is Padmapani (the lotus bearer and the lotus born) in Tibet, the first divine ancestor of the Tibetans, the complete incarnation or Avatar of Avalokiteswara; but in esoteric philosophy Avaloki, the "on-looker", is the Higher Self, while Padmapani is the Higher Ego or Manas. The mystic formula "Om mani padme hum" is specially used to invoke their joint help. While popular fancy claims for Avalokiteswara many incarnations on earth, and sees in him, not very wrongly, the spiritual guide of every believer, the esoteric interpretation sees in him the LOGOS, both celestial and human. (TG)

Avalon, Arthur - Translator of Indian Yogic Writings.

Avatara - (Sk.). A divine incarnation. The descent of a god or some exalted Being, who has progressed beyond the necessity of Rebirths, into the body of a simple mortal. (TG)
	see also Maitreya Buddha, Kalki Avatar

Avidya - (Sk.). Ignorance opposed to Vidya, Knowledge. ... which proceeds from, and is produced by the illusion of the Senses or Viparyaya. (TG)

Militant darkness is familiar to all peoples under different designations. In the last analysis, darkness remains the most frightful aspect of Avidya. But it is very dangerous when it begins to act. One must courageously meet its attacks in action sustained up to the point of its destruction. It has been said-darkness is as a carpet to the Fiery World. But in order to pass more quickly over the dark terrain, one should become kindled in heart. Thus the Fiery World will be the goal of victory over darkness. If darkness is perilous, then the goal must be great. (FW II, 364)

Avitchi - (Sk.). A state; not necessarily after death only or between two births, for it can take place on earth as well. Lit., "uninterrupted hell". The last of the eight hells, we are told, "where the culprits die and are reborn without interruption -yet not without hope of final redemption". This is because Avitchi is another name for Myalba (our earth) and also a state to which some soulless men are condemned on this physical plane. (TG)

Ayur Veda - (Sk.). The Veda of Life. The Teaching of Life. (TG)

Balsam - An aromatic, resinous substance flowing from certain trees and very valuable for its medicinal properties.

Balsam Of The Mother Of The World - A wonderful medicine based on a most ancient prescription. It is irreplaceable in the treatment of old, malignant wounds.
	(LHR I, 260)

Baltrushaitis - Russian poet who translated the Bhagavad-Gita into Russian.

Balu - see Moru

Banner of Light - The Standard is a symbol of the leadership of the Hierarch and carried by the warrior into the Great Battle.

Banner of Peace and Culture - see Roerich Pact and Banner of Peace

Bardo - Is the period between death and re-birth-and may last from a few years to a Kalpa. It is divided into three sub-periods (1) when the EGO delivered of its mortal coil enters into Kama-loka (the abode of Elementaries); (2) when it enters into its 'Gestation State'; (3) when it is reborn in the Rupa Toka of Deva-Chan. (ML, p 105)

Bardo Thodol - Tibetan Book of the Dead.

Bahkti Yoga - see Bhakti Yoga

Battle - We call to calmness and at the same time constantly speak of battle. One should understand this struggle as an accumulation of strength through work. It is impossible to intensify energy without labor, and each labor is a battle with chaos. (BR, 542)

	The rhythm of battle lies not in a desire to kill. I affirm the manifested forces do not go out to fight; they stand on the defensive against chaos. Thus it is not easy for many to understand that the battle is continuous, only its rhythm changes. Timid ones tremble at a single mention of the battle and ask, When will it end? But they become completely crestfallen when told that the battle will come to an end only with the termination of chaos. (BR, 490)

Baume Bengue - (Fr.). A medicinal baume, which contains a large amount of menthol, useful in the treatment of painful nerve centers. A popular remedy. (LHR I, 146)

Bearer of the Chalice - Corresponds to the Vedic state Ahamkara. One who carries within himself all the highest fires and through striving and achievement becomes thus a great and forceful leader.

Beauty - Throughout the history of humanity one may find convincing proofs of beauty having been a shield. (BR, 498)

	According to our method, beauty is born of tension. (H, 447)

	Beauty is contained in each participation in the construction of the New World. This is the true realm of the heart. This desired purification of life gives that solemnity which is like an inextinguishable Light. (H, 593)

Bekhterev, Vladimir Mikhailovich - (1857-1927) A Russian neuropathologist from the province of Viatka. He promoted the first psycho-physiological laboratory, founded in 1907, the St. Petersburg Psycho-neurological Institute, and was the author of papers on "The Nerve Currents in Brain and Spinal Cord" (1882), "The Functions of the Nervous Centers" (1909), "Psychology Objectively Demonstrated" (1910) and others. (EB)

Bell, The - The Center of Cosmic Foundation. (LHR I, p 427)

	Brahmarandra-chakra, or the Bell, on the top of the head. (LHR I, 427)

	There is a center in the brain which is called the bell. Like a resonator it gathers the symphony of the world, and it can transform the deepest silence into a thundering chord. It is said: "He who hath ears, let him hear." (LMG II, p 63)

Be-ness - A term coined by the Theosophists to render more accurately the essential meaning of the untranslatable word Sat. It is absolute Be-ness, not Being, the one secondless, undivided, and indivisible All-the root of all Nature visible and invisible, objective and subjective, to be sensed by the highest spiritual intuition, but never to be fully comprehended. (TG)

	The symbol of Be-ness may be defined as attraction. Be-ness in its boundlessness may be affirmed as Infinity. The entire essence of Be-ness is contained in this law of communion with the Fire of Space and in the principle interchange of energies. Root of ideation is the profound basis of Be-ness.
	(H, 128)

	Since Be-ness is Fire, all is permeated with it. Since Be-ness is Fiery Expanse, our life is filled with cosmic energy. (INF I, 56)

To know the significance of Be-ness means to be convinced of the goal-fitness of existence. (INF II, 282)

An opinion exists that prayer is something apart from daily life, whereas it is the foundation of life. Without a link with the Higher World humanity would be unthinkable, it would be worse than the beasts! Thus, one may regard this bond with the Higher World as the foundation of Be-ness. It matters not in what language the invocation is uttered. Thought has no tongue, yet it is all-pervading. (AUM, 42)

History shows how the nests of true thoughts have been put together, therefore the science of thought is the science of Be-ness. It is inadmissible to complicate the study of thought with any restrictions. Besides, this science must be forever alive, for thought continually vibrates and lives in space. Thus, an aspiring study of thought leads to an understanding of so-called phenomena, which are nothing but unrealized psychic energy in its various manifestations.
(AUM, 287)

Benevolence - An aspect of the magnet of the Heart of Hierarchy and the Teachings of Light. Exoterically, kindness and charity.

	The heart that has consecrated itself to righteousness radiates benevolence continuously, independently of the volitional sendings. Similarly, the sun's rays are not sent with premeditation. The heart that has pledged itself to evil will thrust out arrows consciously, unconsciously, and continuously. The heart of goodness sows about itself health, smiles, and spiritual bliss. The heart of evil destroys warmth and, like a vampire, sucks out the vital strength. Thus, the activity of hearts, good and evil, is unceasing. (H, 63)

	Each righteous attempt helps the cause.
It is necessary to send the arrows through Me or directly,
	but the aim must be benevolent.
Arrows may be aimed even at a rogue.
For the sake of My Cause thou mayest be insistent,
	but without anger,
	spreading the creative force of benevolence.
Wrath begets wrath, but My children
	can extinguish the red flame with the blue ray.
With the power of the blue ray canst thou erect a temple,
	but the red cloud will blight the noblest tendrils
	of thy soul. (LMG I, 132)

In human hands benevolence is like the evening lamp. Darkness falls, but the lamp is ready and an experienced hand is there to light it. But again I say-praise each good deed, it is a manifestation of generosity. Let each spark of good be blown into a flame. Though good be accidental to a great extent, it still is good. It would be too much to demand always a conscious good action; let the darkness be dispersed, even by dim lights. Even with one spark of light, absolute darkness will no longer be such. Behind the thought, word, or deed, Light is already standing. Thus, he who knows how to find a spark of Light is already an illumined co-worker. (FW I, 193)

Bergmann, Ernest von - (1836 - 1907) A great German surgeon of Russian birth. In 1886 he introduced steam sterilization and in 1886 began to use aseptic methods. One of his specialties was cranial surgery. (EB)

	The lines you quoted from the book of Ernest Bergman definitely reflect the ideas of the future, and correspond with the nearest problems. (LHR I, 182)

Bhagavan - (Sk.). The Victorious Buddha.

Bhakti-Yoga - (Sk.). The path of selfless love. A Bhakti Yogi has been called a "Lord of the Cosmic Magnet of the all embracing heart."

Birth - The spirit is connected with the embryo at the moment of conception. It begins to enter in the beginning of the fourth month when the first nerve and brain channels are being formed. The formation of the vetebral column brings in the next degree of possession of the body. Wonderful is the moment of birth when the consciousness of the spirit flashes up brightly and then binds with matter. There are even cases when words are pronounced at birth. The final possession of the body takes place at the seventh year of a child's life. (LHR I, p 167)

Black Age - The passing materialistic era of darkness. Kali-Yuga.

With justice they ask, "What distinguishes the significance of thought in the New Age? If thought is affirmed so persistently does it mean that a special designation is given to it in the regeneration of life?" This is entirely correct. If during the Black Age thought was centered around man and magnetism was spread across small distances, in the New Age thought is Space! Therefore, one must not think personally but spatially. (H, 54)

	The year 1942 marks the end of the Black Age; our planet will enter a new, better epoch. Although the effects of the Black Age will still tag along, the bright sowings already begin to produce sprouts under the beneficial rays of new combinations of the luminaries; and the sowers of darkness will begin to suffer defeat. (LHR II, p 444)
	see also Kali Yuga

Black Brotherhood - The dark forces or enemies of Light.

One should observe not only Ours but also the Black Brotherhood. It is erroneous to minimize the strength of the dark forces. Very often their victory is due to such neglect. People very often say, "They are not worth thinking about." But one ought to think about everything existing. If people justifiably protect themselves against thieves and murderers, so much the more should they guard against the assassins of the spirit. One should appraise their strength in order to better withstand them. ... But those who think that visions and dreams are caused by indigestion, can easily sleep through the most valuable signs of reality. Only those who know the strength of their adversaries can hope for victory. (FW II, 13)

Lucifer is now at the head of the Black Brotherhood, which is very powerful, for it has co-workers among the masses over the entire span of the planet. Indeed, the dark forces always act through masses; in single combat they are not strong. Likewise, they are distinquished by greater unity than the co-workers of the Forces of Light, for the realization of danger is at times the best unifier.
(LHR II, p 419)

Black Fire - The result of energies misused in irritability.

Each receptivity is already an acceptance of Fire. Tension of energy is the transformation of an undifferentiated element into active vibrations. True receptivity is always positive, because the fiery energy then acts directly. Each unlawful deviation and destruction arouses the so-called black fire. It has a peculiar analogy to venous blood. Phlebotomy had its reason. The black fire could be discharged by it. Fortunately the luminous Fire does not call for such coarse measures. The more naturally the Fire is kindled, the more beneficial it is. Hence the conclusion that the fire of love is the most perfect. You wish to protect the Hierarch, and you do so not from fear, not for gain, but from love. The substitution of fear or covetousness for love results in black fire. The result is the same in the case of any other unworthy substitutions. Every fire is magnetic; therefore one should so cautiously avoid the magnetism of the black fire. It does not transmute the particles of dense emanations, but acts just reversely, thus encumbering space. This can be especially harmful in the case of blood relationships when the dense unconsumed particles are so easily attracted and can overstrain already weakened organs. Thus, it is impractical to kindle the black fire. (FW I, 272)

In humanity's conception the Fiery World is growing together with the achievement of thought. But do not try to convince of the Fiery World a heart that is ignorant of Fire. Such coercion will only lead to the black fire. If we could count the number of servants of darkness created by various coercions, we would be terrified by the enormous total. (FW I, 276)

The enemy does not lose time and uses the black fire which, of course, is so easily ignited and fanned whenever the magnet of irritability is evident. The black fire is nothing else but irritability, so beloved by the dark ones.
(LHR I, 138)

The mechanical methods so broadly recommended for the development of psychic energy cannot give the higher quality of this energy; they only develop the black fire, which leads to disastrous results. (LHR II, p 288)
see also Imperil

Blasphemy - Irreverence. Blasphemy results in the rending of the protective net and eventual sickness.

Our Communions are not merely for information, but are to be accepted with the heart. Soon you will finish the first part of the writings about the Fiery World. They should not be given only to the curious, for this may give birth to blasphemy. The meaning of blasphemy must be understood and full attention paid to it. Blasphemy not only repels Light; it inherently carries an actual infection. The blasphemer is not quite the same after his utterances, for he has rent a part of his protective net. One may then expect various sicknesses, for the protective net is not only a spiritual protection but also a physical one. Therefore blasphemous utterances should be forbidden, even in childhood. It is deplorable that people have lost the sense of responsibility to the extent of forgetting the significance of words. At the Fiery Gates blasphemous words will not come to one's mind, but if we consciously let them take root, they will burn the heart like red-hot knives. (FW I, 658)

Blavatasky, Helena Petrovna - (1831-1891) The greatest Occultist in the history of Western civilization, a direct agent of the Trans-Himalayan Brotherhood of Adepts.
	Born August 12, 1831, at Ekaterinoslav, Ukraine, Russia, Daughter of Col. Peter Alexeyevich von Hahn, and Helena Andreyevna, nee de Fadeyev, renowned novelist who died young. ...
	September 8, 1875, founded The Theosophical Society, together with Col. Olcott, William Q. Judge, and others. Published her first great work, Isis Unveiled, Fall of 1877. Became American citizen, July 8, 1878. Published The Secret Doctrine late Fall, 1888. Founded the Esoteric School the same year, and wrote her Instructions. Published The Key to Theosophy and The Voice of the Silence, 1889. She died in the midst of arduous labors, May, 8, 1891.
	(SD - jacket cover)

Bliss - The state of the highest tension of energies. It is analogous with what is called Nirvana, and with "Divine Nearness". The Heart might be termed the "Organ of Bliss" since it acts as a Magnet and draws its essence into itself.

Bliss, Nirvana, Divine Nearness and all analogous terms for the higher state are usually understood in an earthly sense. Thus, Bliss is always understood as an ecstatic oblivion and the rapture of some kind of indolent rest; but oblivion may be understood only as the erasure of all earthly means and examples. Truly, why such limited earthly ways, when one can already act through the higher energies? Is it possible to identify Divine Nearness with indolence and immersion in oblivion? Such a correlation is contrary to the very meaning of approach to the Highest Principle. This conjoining with the Highest, this transformation through the higher energies, primarily impels one to an increased tension of all forces. Even in extreme tension a man must not lose hold of himself. But amidst the contacts with fiery radiances, the seed of the spirit will be kindled the more, and its striving toward thought-creativeness, unrestrainable. One may wonder why people try to limit and disparage the significance of the Fiery World. They wish to clothe it in earthly limitations and also stipulate that the inhabitants of other worlds must exist in earthly bodies and dwell in earthly conditions. Only an undeveloped imagination can limit the Universe to such a degree. Therefore I so greatly emphasize the development of imagination as the basis of striving toward the Higher Worlds.
(FW I, 644)

Forgotten and eliminated from daily life is the moral perfectment and refining of our senses, so essential for the perception of Bliss, which is sent to us from Above. (LHR II, p 375)

Blood - Any food containing blood is harmful for the development of subtle energy. If humanity would only refrain from devouring dead bodies, then evolution could be accelerated. Meat lovers have tried to remove the blood, but they have not been able to obtain the desired results. Meat, even with the blood removed cannot be fully freed from the emanations of this powerful substance. The sun's rays to a certain extent remove these emanations, but their dispersion into space also causes no small harm. Try to carry out a psychic energy experiment near a slaughterhouse and you will receive signs of acute madness, not to mention the entities which attach themselves to the exposed blood. Not without foundation has blood been called sacred. (BR, 21)

Bodi, Sambodhi - (Sk.). Receptive intelligence in contradistinction to Buddhi, which is the potentiality of Intelligence. (TG)

Bodhisattva - (Sk.). Comprises two concepts: Bodhi-enlightenment or awakening, and Sattva-the essence. Bodhisattvas were the disciples of Buddhas, who voluntarily renounced their personal liberation and, following the example of their Teacher, entered upon a long, weary, thorny path of help to humanity. Such Boddhisattvas appear on earth in the midst of the most varying conditions of life. They possess the qualities of the maximum development of energy, courage, patience, constancy of striving and fearlessness. There are three joys of Bodhisattvas: the joy of giving, the joy of helping and the joy of eternal perception. Patience, always, in all, and everywhere. The Sons of Budda, the Sons of Conquerors, Bodhisattvas in their active compassion are the Mothers to the all-existing. From among their number came the founders of the great kingdoms, great religions and philosophies, many alchemists and several saints. (LHR I, pp 365-366)

	A self-sacrificing, compassionate helper of humanity. ... Physically indistinguishable in any way from the rest of humanity, they nevertheless differ completely in their psychology, constantly being the heralds of the principle of the common welfare ... What qualities must a Bodhisattva possess? In the Teaching of Gotama Buddha and in the Teaching of Bodhisattva Maitreya, given by Him to Asanga, according to tradition in the fourth century, the maximum development of energy, courage, patience, constancy of striving and fearlessness were first of all underlined. Energy is the basis of everything, as it alone contains all possibilities. Buddhas are eternally in action; immobility is unknown to Them. Like the eternal motion in space, the actions of the Sons of Conquerors manifest in the worlds. (LHR I, pp 365-366)

Body - see Subtle Body

Boehme, Jacob - A great philosopher, one of the prominent mystics of the medieval ages. He was born about 1575 at Old Seidenburg, some two miles from Gorliz (Silesia), and died in 1624, at nearly fifty years of age. In his boyhood he was a common shepherd, and, after learning to read and write in a village school, became an apprentice to a poor shoemaker at Gorlitz. He was a natural clairvoyant of most wonderful powers. With no education or acquaintance with science, he wrote works which are now proved to be full of scientific truths; but then, as he says himself, what he wrote upon, he "saw it as in a great Deep in the "eternal". He had "a thorough view of the universe, as in a chaos", which yet "opened" itself in him, from time to time, as in a young plant". He was a thorough-born Mystic, and evidently of a constitution which is most rare; one of those fine natures whose material envelope impedes in no way the direct, even if only occasional, inter-communion between the intellectual and the spiritual Ego. (TG)

	Pythagoras and Plato and Boehme and Paracelsus and Thomas Vaughan were men who bore their lamps amidst their fellowmen in life under a hail of nonunderstanding and abuse. Anyone could approach them, but only a few were able to discern the superearthly radiance behind the earthly face. (BR, 175)

Book of Life - In the Book of Life is contained the saturated stream of creative fire. Only upon the higher law can the page of Sublime Be-ness be affirmed. Valiantly must the spirit strive to the realization of all the subtle principles in order to attain higher knowledge. The Book of Life contains every aspiring action. The Book of Life contains the manifestation of all vital fires. The heart carries in itself all imprints of the Book of Life. (INF II, 507)

	The entire Book of Life is concerned with the qualities of motives. (INF II, 506)

Boredom - Listeners must not be bored, for boredom is stagnation. (BR, 89)

Brahma - (Sk.). The student must distinguish between Brahma the neuter, and Brahma, the male creator of the Indian Pantheon. The former, Brahma or Brahman, is the impersonal, supreme and uncognizable Principle in the Universe from the essence of which all emanates, and into which all returns, which is incorporeal, immaterial, unborn, eternal, beginningless and endless. It is all-pervading, animating the highest god as well as the smallest mineral atom. Brahma, on the other hand, the male and the alleged Creator, exists periodically in his manifestation only, and then again goes into pralaya, i.e., disappears and is annihilated. (TG)

Brahma-Randhra, Center of - (Sk.). A very important center located physically by a position in the crown of the head. It is connected with the heart by a spinal nerve known by the Sanskrit name of Sushumna (which is another name also for the solar ray). This center has an important function as the link between our psychic energy and the fires of space and is sort of the funnel through which the Fires of Space gain access to the Fires of all the Centers. Striving toward the heights is the best task for the Center of Brahma-Randhra. Everything heard and seen throughout the Brahma-Randhra deserves especially sensitive attention. (AY, 470-471)
	see also Bell, The

Brahma Vidya - (Sk.). A high form of knowledge and discrimination enabling one to discern the real nature of things and to penetrate into the mysteries of the Cosmos.

	The knowledge, the esoteric science, about the two Brahmas and their true nature. (TG)

Brahmavidya, Fire of - The fire of Brahmavidya is perceptible only in the eyes. A word does not contain it. Script cannot express it. Because its flame is within that thought which is not expressed in the physical shell. Only the mirror of the eye emits the sparks of highest thought. Such eyes discern the sparks of the cosmic rays which crude sight will term simply the light of the sun. In order to split the cosmic ray into the sparks of Fohat with the naked eye, the fire of Brahmavidya is needed.
	The human word is futile in expressing the nature of Brahmavidya. One may partially penetrate it with the spiritual sight by peering into the shattering rays with closed eyes. But the growth of the fire of Brahmavidya will permit the perception openly of those component parts of the rays which are imperceptible to the mechanical apparatus. This possibility is already akin to the domain of communion with far-off worlds. It flashes up as unexpectedly as each illumination of consciousness. It does not respond to enforced development, but it comes at the moment of the development of the sensitiveness of the organism. The Teacher cannot force this possibility, but He rejoices when this sight is carried from darkness to light.
	The same process occurs with the sounds of the far-off worlds. At first they appear undeniably in the depths of the consciousness and then unexpectedly they fly into the open, exultant ear. Those who do not understand enlightenment will not understand whereof I speak. (AY,139)

Breath of Be-ness - We shall term the cosmic energy the Breath of Be-ness. The force impelling life is comprised in each atom as inherent to each element, in which the predestined impulse in turn creates a direction. The impelling force magnetizes by its attraction that sphere which surrounds it. As a continuity of action, there will be a generation of other seeds in the spheres. These spheres fill the space, and humanity has its own affirmed combination of spheres. The spirit itself determines its sphere and upon entering it, acts as a magnetic force. The cosmic spheres and the human spheres are subject to the law of Cosmic Breath. (INF II, 15)
	see also Cosmic Breath

Breath of Cosmos - see Cosmic Breath

Breath of the Mother of the World - The Knowledge and Illumination "from above" which feeds a growing consciousness.

Bromine - Among the minor narcotics beware especially of Bromine. It is an extinquisher of the fires ... (FW I, 381)

Brotherhood - In the Brotherhood each one works as much as he can. Each one helps in accordance with the measure of his forces; each one does not condemn in his heart; each one affirms knowledge according to his experience; each one lets no time escape, for it is irrecoverable; each one is ready to lend his strength to a Brother; each one displays his best quality; each one rejoices at the success of a Brother. (BR, 282)
	The Brotherhood was sometimes called a salutary Community. This definition has a dual significance. Actually, the Brotherhood is primarily concerned with curative principles and establishes them among its fellow members. Each brotherhood, as a true unit, will be in itself a carrier of health. (BR, 539)

	The concept of Brotherhood stands on steadfast pillars. In it there can be no restrictions of age, race, or of occasional moods. Indeed, above all else there is the primary energy. If it is manifest, and if contacts through it can be harmonized, then there will be affirmed a lasting bond. (BR, 40)

	Brotherhood is conceived in the depths of the consciousness. Co-workers may differ in the degree of consciousness attained, whereas brothers will sense each other precisely according to consciousness. Brothers may not be working together outwardly, but their thinking will be strongly knit together. This will be united freely; their unity will not be a burdensome yoke or a bondage. But precisely these brothers will understand unity as a powerful motive force for the good of the world. It is impossible to place limits upon such unity, for the basis will be love. (BR, 166)

Brothers - Few there are who know how to await messages in complete magnanimity, while working, and amidst difficulties-such co-workers are the ones who become brothers. (BR, 68)

	Brothers so respect each other that they do not suspect unworthy action on the part of a brother; they comprehend any situation and ponder how to render assistance. (BR, 436)
	see also Sisters

Brothers of Humanity - A group of Adepts, Arhats, and highly advanced individuals dedicated to persistent and unselfish striving to uplift humanity and save the planet.
	see also Brotherhood, Planetary Spirits

Buddha - (Sk.). Literally, "The Enlightened". The highest degree of knowledge. To become a Buddha one has to break through the bondage of sense and personality; to acquire a complete perception of the REAL SELF and learn not to separate it from all other selves; to learn by experience the utter unreality of all phenomena of the visible Kosmos foremost of all; to reach a complete detachment from all that is evanescent and finite, and live while yet on Earth in the immortal and the everlasting alone, in a supreme state of holiness. (TG)

	Means "The Illumined". In Principle, the process of perfecting is perpetual; therefore, when talking of perfection one must remember the many gradations of perfection meant for particular cycles of the planet and planets, etc. In the case of Buddha, this perfection is immeasurably high as He, together with several other Spirits, came to Earth from the highest planet in the Third Race of our cycle for the acceleration of the evolution of humanity. Therefore, He will not incarnate again on our Earth but only in the last race of the cycle of the highest planet of our solar system. (LHR I, pp 441-442)
	see also Buddha Siddharta

Buddha Siddharta - (Sk.). The name given to Gautama, the Prince of Kapilavastu, at his birth. It is an abbreviation of Sarvartthasiddha and means, the "realization of all desires". Gautama, which means, "on earth (gau) the most victorious (tama)" was the sacerdotal name of the Sakya family, the kingly patronymic of the dynasty to which the father of Gautama, the King Suddhodhana of Kapilavastu, belonged. Kapilavastu was an ancient city, the birth-place of the Great Reformer and was destroyed during his life time. In the title Sakyamuni, the last component, muni, is rendered as meaning one "mighty in charity, isolation and silence", and the former Sakya is the family name. Every Orientalist or Pundit knows by heart the story of Gautama, the Buddha, the most perfect of mortal men that the world has ever seen, but none of them seem to suspect the esoteric meaning underlying his prenatal biography, i.e., the significance of the popular story. The Lalitavistara tells the tale, but abstains from hinting at the truth. The 5,000 Jatakas, or the events of former births (re-incarnations) are taken literally instead of esoterically. Gautama, the Buddha, would not have been a mortal man, had he not passed through hundreds and thousands of births previous to his last. Yet the detailed account of these, and the statement that during them he worked his way up through every stage of transmigration from the lowest animate and inanimate atom and insect, up to the highest-or man, contains simply the well-known occult aphorism: "a stone becomes a plant, a plant an animal, and an animal a man". Every human being who has ever existed, has passed through the same evolution. But the hidden symbolism in the sequence of these re-births (jataka) contains a perfect history of the evolution of this earth, pre and post human, and is a scientific exposition of natural facts. One truth not veiled but bare and open is found in their nomenclature, viz., that as soon as Gautama had reached the human form he began exhibiting in every personality the utmost unselfishness, self-sacrifice and charity. Buddha Gautama, the fourth of the Sapta (Seven) Buddhas and Sapta Tathagatas, was born according to Chinese Chronology in 1024 B.C.; but according to the Singhalese chronicles, on the 8th day of the second (or fourth) moon in the year 621 before our era. He fled from his father's palace to become an ascetic on the night of the 8th day of the second moon, 597 B.C., and having passed six years in ascetic meditation at Gaya, and perceiving that physical self-torture was useless to bring enlightenment, he decided upon striking out a new path, until he reached the state of Bodhi. He became a full Buddha on the night of the 8th day of the twelth moon, in the year 592, and finally entered Nirvana in the year 543, according to Southern Buddhism. The Orientalists, however, have decided upon several other dates. All the rest is allegorical. He attained the state of Bodhisattva on earth when in the personality called Prabhapala. Tushita stands for a place on this globe, not for a paradise in the invisible regions. The selection of the Sakya family and his mother Maya, as "the purest on earth", is in accordance with the model of the nativity for every Savior, God or deified Reformer. The tale about his entering his mother's bosom in the shape of a white elephant is an allusion to his innate wisdom, the elephant of that color being a symbol of every Bodhisattva. The statements that at Gautama's birth, the newly born babe walked seven steps in four directions, that an Udumbara flower bloomed in all its rare beauty and that the Naga kings forthwith proceeded "to baptise him", are all so many allegories in the phraseology of the Initiates and well-understood by every Eastern Occultist. The whole events of his noble life are given in occult numbers, and every so-called miraculous event-so deplored by Orientalists as confusing the narrative and making it impossible to extricate truth from fiction-is simply the allegorical veiling of the truth. It is as comprehensible to an Occultist learned in symbolism, as it is difficult to understand for a European scholar ignorant of Occultism. Every detail of the narrative after his death and before cremation is a chapter of facts written in a language which must be studied before it is understood, otherwise its dead letter will lead one into absurd contradictions. For instance, having reminded his disciples of the immortality of Dharmakaya, Buddha is said to have passed into Samadhi, and lost himself in Nirvana-from which none can return. And yet, notwithstanding this, the Buddha is shown bursting open the lid of the coffin, and stepping out of it; saluting with folded hands his mother Maya who had suddenly appeared in the air, though she had died seven days after his birth, etc., etc. As Buddha was a Chakravartti (he who turns the wheel of the Law), his body at its cremation could not be consumed by common fire. What happens? Suddenly a jet of flame burst out of the Svastica on his breast, and reduced his body to ashes. Space prevents giving more instances. As to his being one of the true and undeniable SAVIORS of the World, suffice it to say that the most rabid orthodox missionary, unless he is hopelessly insane, or has not the least regard even for historical truth, cannot find one smallest accusation against the life and personal character of Gautama, the "Buddha". Without any claim to divinity, allowing his followers to fall into atheism, rather than into the degrading superstition of deva or idol-worship, his walk in life is from the beginning to the end, holy and divine. During the 45 years of his mission it is blameless and pure as that of a god-or as the latter should be. He is a perfect example of a divine, godly man. He reached Buddhaship-i.e., complete enlightenment-entirely by his own merit and owing to his own individual exertions, no god being supposed to have any personal merit in the exercise of goodness and holiness. Esoteric teachings claim that he renounced Nirvana and gave up the Dharmakaya vesture to remain a "Buddha of compassion" within the reach of the miseries of this world. And the religious philosophy he left to it has produced for over 2,000 years generations of good and unselfish men. His is the only absolutely bloodless religion among all the existing religions: tolerant and liberal, teaching universal compassion and charity, love and self-sacrifice, poverty and contentment with one's lot, whatever it may be. No persecutions, and enforcement of faith by fire and sword, have ever disgraced it. No thunder-and-lightning-vomiting god has interfered with its chaste commandments; and if the simple, humane and philosophical code of daily life left to us by the greatest Man-Reformer ever known, should ever come to be adopted by mankind at large, then indeed an era of bliss and peace would dawn on Humanity. (TG)

Buddhi - (Sk.). The sixth principle, (i.e. Buddhi), in its highest aspect, is manifested in the heart. (LHR I, p 240)

	The sixth principle, or Buddhi (often called the "spiritual soul" as distinct from the human-animal soul). (LHR I, p 472)

	Kama, in connection with Manas (the higher) and Buddhi, forms the higher Subtle Body (the astral body, in order that it be not confused with its etheric double, is often called "the lower astral"), or the spiritual soul of the spiritually developed man. (LHR I, p 473)

	We can say the Trinity is Atma, Buddhi and Manas; or Spirit, Soul and Intelligence; or Spirit, Substance and Light; or Spirit, Matter and Force, etc., etc. (LHR I, p 490)

	The Monad becomes a personal ego when it incarnates; and something remains of that (incarnate) personality through Manas, when the latter is perfect enough to assimilate Buddhi. (LHR II, p 14)
	see also Principles

Buddhism - The religion based upon the doctrine originally taught by Gautama Buddha. The Great Enlightenment consisted in a perception of causes of suffering and of the way of salvation from suffering. Buddhism teaches that nirvana, release from liability to suffering, from mortality, is the highest goal attainable, now or hereafter. All beings, gods and men alike, are in need of such salvation. The teaching (dharma) as to the way of salvation is embodied in the "Four Aryan (or Noble) Truths": (1) that all life is subject to suffering; (2) that desire or the will to live is the cause of repeated existences, in which sorrow is inevitable; (3) that only the annihilation of desire (that is, yearning, craving, ambition, as distinct from will) can give release; (4) that the way of escape is the "Eightfold Path" of right belief, right resolve, right word, right act, right life, right effort, right thinking, right meditation. Buddha denied the special virtue of caste, ritualism, and asceticism, and insisted upon the necessity of pity, kindliness, and patience, for salvation. Buddhism has developed and still embraces many sects. The two main divisions are Hinayana (literally, small vehicle, known as Early, Pali, or less correctly, Southern, Buddhism) and Mahayana (great vehicle, known also as Northern, or Later, Buddhism) In the latter the Buddha is deified, and an elaborate pantheon of Bodhisattvas and other divinities is found. The greater part of Buddhist art is Mahayana. (WD)

Bull's Heart - see Cor Bovis

Burden of Atlas - One may feel that the upper part of the spinal column fairly groans under pressure, but this is the bearing of the earthly burden called the Burden of Atlas. (FW II, 82)

Burden of the World - The Burden of this World. Two disciples were discussing the most expressive symbol for this concept. One proposed gold, but the other suggested that white marble might be better. Both agreed that a burden, meaning something weighty, would be best expressed by a stone. But the Teacher observed, "The smallest seed corresponds to the concept of the burden of the world." (BR, 88)

	The symbol of the burden of the world is a man carrying a sphere. (LMG II, p 78)

Cabbala or Kabalah or Qabbalah - (Heb.). The esoteric wisdom of the Jews derived from the Secret Doctrine of the Chaldeans, the Egyptians, Assyrians, etc., and ultimately from the Teachings of the East. The Cabbala was traditionally handed down by oral transmission.

Cagliostro, Allessandro, Count - A famous Adept, whose real name is claimed (by his enemies) to have been Joseph Balsamo. He was a native of Palermo, and studied under some mysterious foreigner of whom little has been ascertained. His accepted history is too well known to need repetition, and his real history has never been told. His fate was that of every human being who proves that he knows more than do his fellow-creatures; he was "stoned to death" by persecutions, lies, and infamous accusations, and yet he was the friend and adviser of the highest and and mightiest of every land he visited. He was finally tried and sentenced in Rome as a heretic, and was said to have died during his confinement in a State prison. Yet his end was not utterly undeserved, as he had been untrue to his vows in some respects, had fallen from his state of chastity and yielded to ambition and selfishness. (TG)

Callicratus - (Gr.) A disciple of Apollonius of Tyana.

Calls - People frequently hear voices that seem to be calling to them. Sometimes such calls are so strong that they force one to start and look around, though others present do not hear them. Can one possibly doubt that such spatial sendings do occur? (BR, 186)

	Attentive observation is the more needed, for it is impossible to picture to oneself how an important manifestation can take place. Only a very refined organism can sense, as it were, a call; it will be desirous of making sudden observations. It is necessary to be prepared to respond to such a call.
	(BR, 314)

	Spatial calls reach Earth through the most unexpected receptions. An imperative call about altruism and mutual understanding reaches certain people. But pay attention to the unexpectedness of such arrivals. If, on a map of the world, the places be marked where Our call is perceived, a very unexpected pattern will result. (BR, 478)

	Precisely, grave and beautiful is our time, when the Hierarchy of Light for the first time pours so many signs on Earth; when so many Calls resound in space, and so much Light and Knowledge are given. (LHR II, p 93)

Calmness - The equilibrium of tension.

	The manifestation of calmness will be a sign of Service. (BR, 30)

	In an hour of consternation one must know how to evoke even a momentary calm. Such calmness and but one breath of prana will provide a strong shield.
	(BR, 74)

	A reflection is clear on a calm surface. Each agitation distorts the clarity. Likewise, the primary energy requires calmness in order to reflect Truth. It should not be assumed that calmness is decline and enfeeblement. Only disorderly agitation can distort the mirror of energy.
	People talk much about the tranquility of wise men, but it is really a great tension, so great that the surface of the energy becomes mirror-like. Thus, calmness must not be taken for inaction. (BR, 132)

	We call to calmness and at the same time constantly speak of battle. One should understand this struggle as an accumulation of strength through work. It is impossible to intensify energy without labor, and each labor is a battle with chaos. Thus, knowledge of the meaning of battle will bestow calmness.
	(BR, 542)

Carriers of Fire - The Enlighteners and Teachers of humanity.

	The sower of cosmic fires into the consciousness of men is a true co-worker of Cosmos. (INF II, 35)

	The Carrier of Fire imparts to his desires a tense striving. Hence each fiery thought conforms to the tensed Magnet. Therefore, the thought of the Carrier of Fires is in itself of cosmic creativeness, and wishes of the Carrier of Fires powerfully advance evolution. (INF II, 397)

Causal Body - The spiritual Soul of man, formed by the triad of the seventh, sixth and fifth principles, where lies the true individuality of man, as distinguished from his lower soul or his personality.

	This "body is no body either objective or subjective, but Buddhi, the Spiritual
	Soul, is so called because it is the direct cause of the Sushupti condition, leading to the Turya state, the highest state of Samadhi. It is called Karanopadhi, "the basis of the Cause", by the Taraka Raja Yogis; and in the Vedanta system it corresponds to both the Vignanamaya and Anandamaya Kosha, the latter coming next to Atma, and therefore being the vehicle of the universal Spirit. Buddhi alone could not be called a "Causal Body", but becomes so in conjunction with Manas, the incarnating Entity or Ego. (TG)

	The true individuality of man is in his causal body, or spiritual soul, whereas his lower soul is his personality, i.e., the changing earthly manifestations.
	(LHR I, p 473)

Causality, The Law of - The law of cause and effect. The precept that every origin shall have its consequence, and every happening its cause.

	Unification is affirmation of the Cosmic law of Causality. (FW III, 48)
	How sublime is the law of Causality! In it is contained the answer to every question. The human mind is confused by the problem of misfortunes, but the law of Causality brings one to the law of Karma. Man is exasperated at calamities, but the law of Causality points out to him the sources of same. Man is bewildered by strange disturbances of equilibrium, but the Cosmic law invokes Higher Justice. He who is aligned with the law of Causality in his spirit, is already allied with Truth. If schools and churches would proclaim the law of Causality, the consciousness would be then on a higher level, as that which is separated from the foundations of Existence, cannot advance. It is right to affirm that a primary cause cannot exist without the one Fire of Being; and Cosmic Construction proceeds in like manner, uniting those things which by right belong together. Thus, everything is unified in the Cosmos. The law of Causality must be accepted in all its might. (FW III, 47)
	see also Cause and Effect

Cause and Effect - Each manifestation is multiform. It is especially erroneous to think of a manifestation as having one single effect. Around each action there can be observed many different realms which exert an influence and on which an influence is exerted. One must assimilate the fact that the sphere of each action is far broader than can be defined according to earthly reasoning. Thus, by each action and each thought people contact several spheres. ... One must accustom oneself to the complexity of effects. (BR, 95)

	When people begin to distinguish causes from effects, much is perceived, but up to the present people recognize only effects, and this only in the crudest degree. No one wishes to understand that a certain time must elapse between cause and effect. (BR, 268)
	see also Causality, The Law of

Cause of Causes - The sowing of Armageddon is sprouting, in it is to be found the cause of causes. (BR, 565)

Caution - What we mean by caution must be definitely understood. The ignorant may assume that caution is inaction or the gloom of fear. On the contrary, caution is a strengthening of action, watchfulness and courage. Caution is very necessary when fiery waves are provoked. One can resist such tensions by means of the magnet of Hierarchy. When I indicate caution, it is necessary to direct the heart, aflame to Hierarchy. (FW II, 450)

	Caution was ordained because it is but a quality of valor. (FW I, 287)

	I continually speak about cautiousness, but I do not wish to inspire timidity in you. A cloud impels a gardener to take measures for protection, but he is not afraid of every whirlwind. (BR, 234)

Cedar - One of the family of coniferous trees. One of the "lifegivers" which store the heart energy of nature and nourish all the nerve centers with fiery energy.

	Plants will indicate the better possibilities. Look for cedars and pines, heather and oak, grass and flowers of vivid color. Natural electrification in a locality is necessary. Large, long needles of evergreen are the best condensers of electricity. (COM, 182)

	The ancients advised the placing of one's hand upon the needles of the young cedars, in order that the condensed prana might penetrate through the fingertips. (H, 14)

	A chalice of cedar resin figured in the rituals of the consecration of the kings of the ancient Khorassan. Druids also called the chalice of cedar resin the chalice of life. And only later, with the loss of the realization of the spirit, was it replaced by blood.
	The fire of Zoroaster was the result of burning of the cedar resin in the chalice. (LMG II, 72)

Center of the Shoulders - You have already experienced the two sharp points piercing the region of the shoulder blades, and with the same piercing the centers of the lungs may be opened. These centers control prana. (INF I, 12)

	The centers of the shoulders also are called wings, because during a self-	sacrificing achievement rays extend from them. The legend concerning wings is highly symbolic. Likewise, it was a favorite custom of the ancients to wear a round metal plate upon their breasts. (LMG II, p 63)

Centers - There are seven main centers and they correspond to the seven principles in man. But for complete crowning, man must kindle all the forty-nine fires which include all the fires of all the centers and their branches. All spiritual centers depend on the heart. The heart is the great accumulator and transmuter of all the energies; it may be called the sun of the organism because of the role it plays. Sometimes the nerve centers are not consciously realized and, being partly opened, often show the symptoms of tuberculosis, asthma, rheumatism, and other diseases. (LHR I, p 240)

	In spiritual development, the opening of the centers comes quite normally. The opening of and acting of these centers should first be manifested in their psychic or spiritual aspects. With a constant inner striving toward the Highest, and a broadening of the consciousness, the acceleration of the opening of the centers is quite possible. It comes either with the help and guidance of the Great Teacher of Light, or sometimes from contact with the purified fiery aura of a high disciple. Everything must come from higher to lower, from spiritual to physical, but not vice versa. (LHR I, pp 399-400)

	In general, during the opening of the centers one should avoid direct contact with the sun's rays. Excessive physical exercises, such as sports, are also quite harmful. (LHR I, p 146)
	see also Chakra, Perfect Heart

Chain of Hierarchy - There is one chain of the Hierarchy of Light, which continues into Infinity and all true Carriers of Light who appear and who are still on our Earth are links of it. (LHR II, p 81)

Only the understanding of Service gives one the right to a manifested link of the Chain. (LHR II, p 61)

Breaking from the Chain is terrifying, for it throws us into space and casts us into chaotic rambling. How many centuries must pass before the spirit that broke away can again grasp a new link! (LHR II, p 246)

Every Hindu knows what devotion to the Guru means. And we know that all the majestic concepts and the whole beauty of Eastern thought evolved precisely from the sequence and succession in the infinite Hierarchic Chain, which consists of links formed by the limitless devotion of a disciple to his Guru. Thus, the East looks upon a Teacher who rejects the Hierarchic principle as upon a dry, rootless tree. To deprive the spirit of reverence for the great concept of the Teacher is equivalent to spiritual suicide. The Great Teachers provide our

nurture; without it, not only would we die but so would the whole planet.
(LHR II, p 130)

Through the heart one can transport one's consciousness along the Chain of Hierarchy, thus multiplying one's strength and becoming invulnerable. (H, 582)

Chain of the White Forces - The Hierarchy of Light.

	The Chain of the White Forces should be constantly in one's thoughts. ... Effulgent is the White Chain from the Mountains of Light. These are significant times, when even the humblest discern the magnificence of the White Chain. All Indications should be fulfilled so that the specks of imperil may not impede the might of the White Forces. (H, 466)

Chain of the Planets - This expression used in The Secret Doctrine and The Mahatma Letters refers to different stages of the same planets as they might appear in a "space-time continuum"-visible and invisible.

Chakra - (Sk.). Translated means "wheel" or "disc". There are forty-nine chakras or centers altogether. In Agni Yoga twenty-one are mentioned and it is the opening and transmuting of these 21 centers that causes the kindling of the rest. The seven main chakras and their locations are: l. Muladhara-Kundalini, located at the bottom of the spine; 2. Svadhisthana-chakra, in the abdomen between the base of the spine and the navel; 3. Manipura-chakra, or the solar-plexus;
	4. Anahata-chakra, or the Chalice; 5. Vishuddha-chakra or the center of the throat; 6. Ajna-chakra, or the Third Eye; 7. Brahamarandra-chakra, or the Bell, on the top of the head. There are also seldom mentioned centers in the shoulders, cheeks, lungs, wrists, knees, kidneys, etc.
	All these chakras have important functions peculiar to them and are important in their own right, but for the most important chakra, and the one that none of the others can survive without is the Center of the Heart, or the Anahata-chakra. It is through this center that the Fiery Energy is disseminated throughout the organism and by means of the action of this center that the other centers are kindled. The Heart Center, the center of the Larynx, and the center in the Solar Plexus form an important triad and seem to "work together", as it were. The throat center is closely connected with striving and with synthesis. All the centers react strongly to various reactions of the individual, indeed they mirror his every mood and the fluctuations of his emotions, usually to their own detriment, for it is the calm and placid nature in the world of contrasts that allows his centers to develop. The greatest enemy of the centers is irritation, which causes the blocking up of the nerve channels and the starving off of the centers from their sustenance that comes in the form of Vital Energy. "The centers vibrate like most sensitive strings. Upon them all things play; upon them, all things resound; upon them, all is transmuted." (LHR I, pp, 426-427)

	The kindling of the centers is based upon this responding vibration. When the force of the cosmic ray is intensified, the responding vibration attracts the corresponding fire. Creation always strains the centers. When the force of vibration reestablishes the correlation of the centers, coordination is attained. It is impossible to establish correlation without the responding vibration.
	The creativeness of an Agni Yogi is based upon the striving toward vibration. The centers vibrate like most sensitive strings. Upon them, all things play; upon them, all things resound; upon them, all is transmuted.
	When We, Brothers of Humanity, had to immerse into human emanations, We encountered powerful currents. The manifestation of fires strain so greatly all centers. The subtle energies are locked within the center of the Chalice, and therefore all changes are felt quite keenly. One may assert that all occurrences, manifest and unmanifest, play upon the currents of the fires of an Agni Yogi. (INF I, 259)

A wise host does not light all fires without special purpose. Thus, in ancient legends there is mentioned the mountain surrounded by flame, but it is not stated anywhere that the fire burnt continuously; it rose according to the need. Thus also your fires glow according to necessity-the Eye of Brahma, or the wings, or the rays from the larynx, or the other principal twenty-one fires-it is necessary to permit them to be kindled according to their natures. It is necessary to point out that the fires act according to their power of contact with the Hierarchy. Conflagration or unbridled burning is not permissible. In the Great Service, care and caution are the first principles of the highest cooperation. We protect each particle of the energy of the Elohim and each Uruci, from the Fire of Space. This accountability is demanded especially during the time of the battle's tension. (H, 56)
see also Centers, Chalice, Kundalini, Solar Plexus

Chaldeans, or Kasdim - At first a tribe, then a caste of learned Kabbalists. They were "savants", the magicians of Babylonia, astrologers and diviners. The famous Hillel, the precursor of Jesus in philosophy and in ethics, was a Chaldean. (TG)

Chalice - The Anahata Chakra or the Heart of the Subtle Body, where the accumulations of many lives are stored-deposited there in the form of Fiery Matter.

 Since times immemorial the Chalice has been a symbol of Service. The gifts of Higher Forces are gathered in the Chalice and given from the Chalice. The symbol of the Chalice has always stood for self-sacrifice. Whoever bears the Chalice bears Achievement. Each lofty deed can be marked by the symbol of the Chalice. Everything most lofty, everything for the good of humanity, should bear this symbol. The Chalice of the Grail, and the Chalice of the Heart which has dedicated itself to the Greater Service, is a most Cosmic Magnet. The Heart of the Cosmos is reflected in this great symbol. All images of Heroes of the Spirit may be represented as bearing the Chalice. The whole universe is reflected in the Chalice of the fiery spirit. The Chalice contains the accumulations of centuries which are gathered around the seed of the spirit. It is necessary to accept the affirmation of the Chalice as a great symbol in everyday life. Small children, and all youth, should be taught to think about the Chalice. One should understand the entire diversity of forms of the great symbol, the Chalice.
	(FW III, 49)

	The fire of the Chalice represents the psychodynamics which ignites around it all energies. (INF I, 251)

	The center of the Chalice is located near the heart, amidst the knots of nerves. The Chalice is the focal point of all emanations. This is the focus in which and through which all emanations of the seed of the spirit are refracted and spread. The Chalice forms a triangle between the center of the heart and the solar plexus. It is (the Chalice) above the solar plexus at the level of the heart.
	(LHR II, p 371)
	see also Containment, Law of

Chalice of Amrita - The "Chalice of Immortality", wherein is stored, through the action of the Chalice, the highest energies, the highest knowledge, to become an integral part of the spirit's make-up during its Infinite Journey.

	Let us see how the Agni Yogi creates and transmutes. The fire of the Chalice represents the psycho-dynamics which ignites around it all energies. Through the synthesis of the Chalice, all fires, at different degrees, are directed by summons toward the cumulation of the Chalice of Amrita. (INF I, 251)

	We approach life as to the chalice of a wondrous remedy. To drink the poison of the world in order to be reborn with full power! This symbol comes from ancient legends. We see it in Egypt, in Greece; Shiva himself recalls it; a whole chain of Redeemers bears the chalice of poison, transforming it into Amrita. (AY, 304)

Chalice of the Archangel - A divine repository of Truth and the Treasury of the Teachings.

	Four guardians, protect the Chalice of the Archangel! (LMG I, 243)

	One may expect supernal manifestations in the life of the planet. Unprecedented is the time when events are poured cosmically into the Chalice of the Archangel! (FW I, 611)

Chalice of Attainment - Refers to part of an ancient mystery in which juice of the pomegranite was poured from four sides of a container, to symbolize the readiness to serve the General Good without end.

Chaos - Cosmic dissonance. The result of discord and disunity. The antithesis of the aims of the Brotherhood and the benign influence of the Cosmic Magnet.

	Evolution is the antipode of Chaos. Evil should be opposed as a manifestation of chaos. (AUM, 283)

	It is futile to think that chaos is somewhere faraway; it is admitted by humanity during all disorderly thinking. Only a steadfast consciousness can be a protection against chaos. (BR, 129)

	Chaos is jealous and raging. It overwhelms wherever the least vacillation is found. Chaos loses no opportunity of breaking through a weak barrier.
	(BR, 269)

	It is advisable to observe the methods of the invasion of chaos. Many suppose that the very concept of chaos excludes any system. A representation of chaos as completely formless will be untrue. Even in each life it can be observed how subtly chaos creeps in. It intrudes as an actual decomposing force. (BR, 474)

Cheerfulness - Creativeness is the basis of evolution. With what then is it possible to strengthen the acts of creative power? Only with cheerfulness. Joy is a special wisdom. Cheerfulness is a special technique. This enhancement of vigor arises out of a conscious realization of the creativeness of elements. Truly, creative patience and cheerfulness are the two wings of the worker. (COM, 163)

Chela - (Sk.). Literally means "child". A disciple, the pupil of a Guru or Sage. The follower of an adept of a school of philosophy. (TG)

Chiaroscuro - (It.). Literally, "light and dark". Esoterically refers to the building with Light, the light of knowledge which throws happenings into the sharp, defining light of reality and truth, enabling the individual to discern the true state of things.

Chotavan - (Sk.). Literally means "small rhythm" while Mahavan means "large rhythm". These refer to the rhythms of the Fire of Space, the rhythm of Cosmos. (LHR I, p 250)

	At a certain degree of achievement of the Fiery Yoga our organism begins to perceive these rhythms (which come from space) and to resound to them.
	(LHR I, p 499)

Christ - This term was taken from the pagan dictionary and originally meant "Initiate" or "Hierophant". The Christ is our highest and most purified ego. The word meant the highest divine principle in man. The Krestos, or neophyte, went through the sufferings and passed the tests of initiation and after being anointed, emerged as Christ, "the purified". "His finite personality was fused with his infinite individuality, and he then became an immortal Ego."

Chun, Tower of - An Abode of the Brotherhood.

Perhaps Brotherhood does exist? Perhaps, as an earthly anchor, it maintains equilibrium? Perhaps in the dreams of humanity it has remained as an unalterable reality? Let us recall certain dreams and visions, so clearly engraved upon the memory, visions of walls and towers of the Brotherhood. The imagination is but a memory of that which exists.
	Perhaps someone will remember also in reality the Tower of Chun?
	(BR, 7)

One should not speak or even think about the Brotherhood if dissension, disturbance, and unbelief are felt. As delicate blossoms droop in a smoky atmosphere, so also the Images of the Brotherhood fly away amid irritation and falsehood. That which was still convincing yesterday can be distorted in the confusion of the heart. The clearest reflection of the Tower of Chun can be shattered by a crude touch. (BR, 577)

Circle - Occultly, the circle appears as an impersonation of the human organism broadened by possibilities. ... The best number for the circle is seven.
	(LMG II, pp 18-19)
see also Manvantara

Circles of Receptivity - Now about the circles of receptivity. The circles of keen sight proceed centrifugally and those of receptivity proceed centripetally. From symbols and dim outlines they advance spirally to sharp fact, to clair-call, clair-audience, clair-voyance, clair-understanding, clair-achievement, clair-knowledge. (LMG II, pp 129-130)

Circles of Sight and Hearing - About the circles of keen sight and hearing. The first circle concerns the near ones and future events. The second is confined to current matters and to the near future. The third embraces the past which concerns the near ones. The fourth encompasses past events. The fifth is within the limits of the contemporary world. The sixth reveals the future of the world currents. The seventh contains all signs.
	One can be strong in the first circle without being able to grasp the next one. Therefore, it is better to develop the seventh circle, because all manifestations are accessible to it but without personal gravitative influence-	without limitation by the personal, narrower, sphere. It is better when, following a personal sign, one can receive signs about coming events of nations, or glimpses of a cosmic order. (LMG II, p 117)

City of Knowledge - A planned center of study high in the Himalayas made up of scientists from all over the world working in cooperation toward a synthesis of scientific and spiritual achievements. Important among the studies would be that of the cosmic rays, which can more easily be observed in the higher altitudes. (LHR I, p 45)

Clairaudience - The faculty, whether innate or acquired by occult training, of hearing all that is said at whatever distance. (TG)

	I will grant thee power to see and hear.
	The first essentials are purity of air and calmness of spirit. (LMG I, 142)

Today you heard the music of the spheres, that rhythm which strengthens the realization of evolution. It is not the theme precisely, but the rhythm that forms the essence of the music of the spheres. It is indeed the degree of purity of the sounds which determines the interplanetary conduit. These sounds are heard on many far-off worlds, but on Earth they can be heard only at high altitudes, and it is necessary to have a musical ear. But the ear that has heard the music of the spheres must be protected from the wind. (AY, 149)

The centers revolving at the back of the head strengthen clairaudience. They are located at the crossing of the two main channels of the surging currents of life. The centers are affirmed as the carriers of energies needed for communions with the far-off worlds. These centers tense the center of the ear and for this reason are most important. (INF I, 305)

In the cooperation of all spheres the creativeness of Fire is laid as the foundation. The currents of the spheres are transmitted by the Fire of Space. Those who affirm the creativeness of Fire may say that they serve evolution. Hence, the centers of hearing are connected so closely with Fire. Each manifestation of the striving center discloses clairaudience. In turn, clairaudience affords to humanity an evolutionary move. (INF I, 317)

People notice that clair-audience is better at dawn. The reason advanced for this is far from the truth. They suppose that after the night the organism is rested; they think that the currents just before dawn lend assistance, but they overlook the simplest and most natural solution. Actually, the most obvious cause lies in the fact that during sleep man has contacted the Subtle World, and therein has enhanced his subtle qualities. (AUM, 212)

It is often observed that clairaudience and clairvoyance usually yield fragmentary information. But it is necessary to recall many principles in order to understand what is taking place. Frequently the fragmentary character results from the earthly point of view. People do not grasp the subtle connection of what has been seen. Perhaps the bond is quite logical, but earthly logic differs from that of the Subtle World.
	Also it should not be forgotten that the Higher World watches over the laws of karma. Very slightly understood is the boundary between that which is permitted and the sacred karma. It is impossible in earthly language to define the gates of karma. It is likewise difficult to indicate how man himself influences his clairaudience. He can stop up his ears with a thousand moods. It is first necessary to broaden the consciousness in order that all channels be clear. (AUM, 457)
see also Circles of Sight and Hearing

Clairvoyance - The faculty of seeing with the inner eye or spiritual sight ... Real clairvoyance means the faculty of seeing through the densest matter (the latter disappearing at the will and before the spiritual eye of the Seer), and irrespective of time (past, present and future) or distance. (TG)

	Verily, only in the case of the Man-God, or Arhat, when union of the mind with spiritual consciousness is achieved, is it possible to use the terms "Straight- knowledge", "clairaudience", and "clairvoyance". Therefore speaking of the spirituality of primordial man, it is better to apply such expression as, "spiritual consciousness", "spiritual hearing", "spiritual sight."
	(LHR I, p 194)

	The time will come when clairvoyance, scientifically treated, will help to piece together the fragments of shattered vessels of ancient knowledge. (BR, 231)
	see also Circles of Sight and Hearing, Clairaudience

Cleanliness - On certain steps a clean place is indispensable. Our Ashrams are distinguished by cleanliness. The hygiene of spirit presupposes the hygiene of the body. (LMG II, p 147)

The approach of Light demands from us not only moral purity but also physical cleanliness. Precisely, on certain spiritual steps physical hygiene is absolutely essential. (LHR II, p 85)

Cloud of Cognition - Yogis are acquainted with attacks, as it were, of sudden drowsiness and fatigue, called the cloud of cognition. Indeed, the Yogi knows that at this time his energy is ebbing, attracted by the powerful flow of a spatial current. The Yogi knows that he has taken part in Great Service for the good of humanity. It is possible to distinguish many aspects of such services. Sometimes only drowsiness is felt, but sometimes the subtle body strives to take part in an undeferrable action. Then one can see such a subtle body as a vision, or sense an invisible presence. The manifestation of such actions at a distance will be instantaneous. No earthly time is required for prolonged discourses and reactions. When a Yogi feels the approach of a moment of drowsiness, he yields to such an imperative call, otherwise he may let pass an opportunity for cooperation in something great. It is especially indicative that those communions take place at remote distances and with persons absolutely unknown. (BR, 396)
see also Drowsiness

Collective Labor - The Teacher rejoices when collective labor is possible. Rejection of collective labor is ignorance. Only a lofty individuality finds within itself the measure of collective concepts. So long as the personality fears collective work, it is not yet individualized; it still remains in the stifling atmosphere of selfhood. Only true discernment of the indestructibility of freedom permits adherence to collective labor. Only through such true mutual respect can we attain the realization of harmonious labor-in other words, attain active good. In this good is kindled the fire of the heart; hence each manifestation of harmonious labor is so joyous. Such labor augments the psychic energy unusually. Let the work be carried out at least in short united labor; even if for brief periods at first, it must be in complete accord and intent upon success. In the beginning, fatigue because of disunity is unavoidable, but later the coordinated collective force will multiply the energy tenfold. Thus, even in small nuclei one can thrust forward the prototype of world progress. (FW I, 288) see also Individuality

Co-Measurement - Commensurability. One of the qualities of true Spirituality.

	One should be neither less nor more. (FB, p 86)

	The condition of the Brotherhood is full co-measurement of thought and expression-this is the bulwark of the truth of beauty. To go through life with neither reticence nor exaggeration is easy. We sharply observe Our coworkers, for they should express themselves in conformity with the true meaning. Only thus can different beings cooperate.
	The best judgment will be founded upon beauty. It is ugly to say, "I shall put the giant into a little box," or, "The eagle soars like a hen."
	How often are the best apparati destroyed by non-comeasurement, which, with a little attentiveness, is easy to avoid. (LMG II, p 123)

	There is no worse act of non-comeasurement than to defer an urgent action. There is no worse act of non-comeasurement than to show offense like a petty huckster. There is no worse act of non-comeasurement than to renounce responsibility. There is no worse act of non-comeasurement than to cease thinking about beauty. Co-measurement is like the pillar that supports the house. When we take into consideration the painting of the dwelling, are we to destroy the pillar under the archway? Thoroughly assimilate co-measurement.	(LMG II, p 193)

Common Good - General Welfare or General Good. This is, in a sense, the higher law of Cosmos, the direction in which the Cosmic Magnet draws us and to which we must strive.

	Each possibility in step with the Cosmic Magnet reaches toward the Common Good. (INF II, 492)

	I shall specify the qualities distinctive of seeking the Common Good. First-constancy of striving. Second-ability of containment, for poor is he who denies but the seeker of truth is worthy to work for General Good. Third-ability to labor, because the majority do not know the value of time. Fourth-the desire to help without prejudices and without usurpation. Fifth-renouncement of personal property and the acceptance for safekeeping of the fruit of the creativeness of others. Sixth-expulsion of fear. Seventh-display of vigilance amidst darkness. (LMG II, p 189)

Communion - Communion, like fragrance, spreads far. If it is beautiful, the quality of broad dispersion is a blessed one. Let space be saturated with the best thoughts; many of them will join harmonious radiations. Though not all can absorb the full expression of thoughts, yet the beneficent substance formed by them will be a healing one. One should offer gratitude to the unknown Senders, who impregnate space with beneficial substance. Thoughts manifested in lofty communion are as a spring in the midst of a desert. Pursuing the direction of such springs one may find the Brotherhood. (BR, 556)

	People have only two real joys-thinking and ecstacy over beauty. The path to the Fiery World has been affirmed by these two manifestations. Only through them can man advance to the lofty spheres. Every higher communion will contain these two fundamentals. (BR, 85)

	Let us not be in doubt as to what to do in moments between labors. Let us not forget that each particle of time can be used for higher communion. There is joy in that the thread of the heart can be in constant communion with the most Beloved. I affirm that the voice of love requires no length of time. As a field of grass is filled with different flowers, so, too, the calls of the heart are radiant amid labors; they signify the approach to Brotherhood. (BR, 555)

Communities - Since Our Central Community does have significance for world structures, then, too, communities established by Us have an influence upon the evolution of the world. Let us examine the principal kinds of these widely scattered communities.
	The first are the unconscious communities whose members work out a mutually acceptable way of co-existence. These can be found among workmen, farmers, students, and, less frequently, in families.
	The second kind of community knows about the plan of earthly evolution, but does not connect this plan with definite action and date. These are circles of political idealists; certain occult organizations; some learned societies; and-rarest of all-clerical bodies.
	The third kind of community knows not only the plan of evolution but also the dates and the action. Of course these communities are rare, and they receive Our Indications.
	He who has come in close touch with Us learns silence. Likewise, it is difficult to distinguish the participants of a community of the third kind. More talkative is the second kind of community; already they speak much about the Common Good.
	Verily, the dark age will terminate with the proclaiming of the Community! Sergius hewed it out with his axe. Boehme worked on it with his boot hammer. The Teacher Buddha built it with His hands. Christ prepared a bridge to it. A most ancient Teacher said: "I do not see any objects that I own!"
	(LMG II, pp 228-229)

It will be pointed out that many Communities and Brotherhoods have fallen into ruin, but they are not the ones We speak about. Moreover, they could have been moved elsewhere, but to a stranger's eye it might seem that they disintegrated. Do people know much about the life in a neighboring house, much less about that which they are not supposed to know? Each one can recall from his own life the most significant events about which no one has known. Especially if transmitted by thought at a distance, who could learn about them? True, thought can be intercepted, but for this special conditions are necessary. If a thought has been directed with especial clarity to a definite person, it will unfailingly contact his aura. Thus communities can be kept together by the force of thought. But some are so afraid of thought that they decline everything relating to this domain. Such people should not be attracted, their approach ends in treachery. More than once Communities have been moved away in order to free them from undesirable people. It is easier to announce the dissolution of a Community than to disclose those who can do harm. From such a situation one can more easily comprehend why the Brotherhood is to be found in an inaccessible place. (BR, 463)

Community - What more nearly compares with Our Community-a choir of psalm-singers or an armed camp? Rather the second. One can imagine how it must conform to the rules of military organization and leadership. Is it possible to establish the paths of advancement of the Community without repulse and attack? Is it possible to take a fortress by assault without knowing its situation? The conditions of defense and attack must be weighed. Needed is experienced knowledge and keen vigilence. They are wrong who consider the Community a house of prayer. They are wrong who call the Community a workshop. They are wrong who regard the Community as an exclusive laboratory. The Community is a hundred-eyed guard. The Community is the hurricane of the messenger. The Community is the banner of the conqueror. (COM, 183)

	In a conscious community there is a place for every labor. Each one may select his task at will, for every labor is sharpened by new attainments. There is not the tedium of mechanical performance, for the worker is at the same time an experimenter. He understands the significance of the problem of introducing perfectionment of work without disturbing the general complex of rhythm. ...
	Each one decisively finds work to suit Himself and can change it at will. Thus, necessary is both the desire to work and the open consciousness through which each labor becomes attractive. For labor is performed for the future, and each one carries his best stone. (COM, 202)

	Our Community does not use force, it practices voluntary cooperation.
	(BR, 388)

I should add that the Community is the lighthouse and the sole anchor of humanity. Thus, the best people are under obligation to ease their unbearable burden. And how immense should be our gratitude to these High Spirits who for centuries have sacrificed Themselves and who continue to sacrifice Their well-deserved higher happiness so that They may ease the destiny of humanity and save the planet from destruction! (LHR I, p 460)

Community of the Heroine Sisters - This unique Community was a dream of Helena Roerich, cherished by her since early youth. It was planned as a Community of Women built on striving and dedicated to the study of medicine, agriculture, social problems, with special groups investigating the various significances of color, sound, and scent.

	The function of the Living Ethics would be to beautify the whole benevolent movement of the Heroine Sisters. (LHR I, p 446)

Compassion - Mercy.

	Knowing how to bring one's consciousness down to another's level is already compassion. (FW III, 558)

	Compassion does not weep, but helps. (COM, 134)

Personal experience, personal trials and sufferings teach us great patience and compassion, those qualities which lie at the basis of all achievements.
(LHR II, p 468)

Compassion, Lord of - "The Lord of Compassion" is a title of the coming Maitreya, but it could be equally applied to all the great Sons of Light. (LHR II, p 190)

Competition - Competition is one of the difficult concepts. Only the fiery heart understands how many measures may be placed upon the light and upon the dark side. A pure understanding of self-perfection will not evoke competition. Where the consciousness is wild and unrestricted, there competition leads to mutual destruction. Envy nests around competition. It leads to the most subtle crimes. Cooperation must bring balance to the misunderstood competition. It is not easy to fix oneself the boundary of a reasonable competition. The word competition itself is already dangerous; in it is expressed jealousy, in other words, a corrupt devotion. Therefore, it is best wherever possible to replace the concept of competition with that of perfectionment. (INF II, 134)

Compulsion - All compulsion is condemned. Compulsory slavery, compulsory marriage, compulsory labor, incite rebellion and condemnation. But of all the forms of compulsion the most culpable and ugly is the compulsory community. Each compulsion is doomed to a reaction, and the worst form of compulsion is doomed to the worst reaction. (COM, 219)

	Truly, the path of compulsion is like the path of narcosis. He who has been taking narcotics must increase the quantity of the poison taken. In the same way compulsion must be constantly increased, reaching the point of madness. Interruption of a compulsion carries the threat of domination by the dark forces. Therefore, compulsion is worthless for evolution. A conscious awareness contradicts compulsion. (BR, 159)

	Compulsion upon thought is a grave offense. It cannot be justified. It serves only to provoke new violations, and where then will there be an end to outrage? It is a mistake to think that something created in the name of hatred can remain firm. Only construction, not subversion, can gather power for free thought.
	Thought must be safeguarded. The very process of thinking must be loved. (BR, 151)

	The ability not to coerce another's will is one of the most difficult tests. Compulsion does not produce a good harvest, and yet it is necessary to guide and protect on dangerous paths. (BR, 533)

Concordance - Concordance of the cosmic processes is revealed in the lower spheres as well as in the higher ones. Cosmic power can be reflected in the planetary life, and the planetary life may be transmuted in the process of higher tension. When people will understand the ceaselessness of manifestation consists in changes of existence, the principle of concordance may become close to man. The laws of transmutation and cosmic bestowal coalesce. Great help may result from the realization of this principle.
	If humanity strives toward concordance it will perceive all the best possibilities. By straining the will toward Infinity one may reach concordance on every step. Concordance is the unifying principle which affirms the sacred intercourse between spirit and spirit, between spirit and planet, between spirit and Cosmos, between Cosmos and the power of the Infinite. (INF I, 94)

Condemnation - Only limited people condemn. Not out of condemnation is perfectment born. (BR, 41)

Confucius, K'ung Fu-tze - (Ch.). (550 or 551-479 B.C.) Famous sage of China. At an early age he showed a great desire for learning and in his 22nd year established a school where he taught the principles of right conduct and government. He soon became the Teacher of noble and influential people and wherever possible coached them in the proper administration of their states. One of his great interests seems to have been the concept of Community with its roots in the individual member of the community from laborer to King. He gave important lessons for the formation of individual character, and the manner in which the duties in the relations of society should be discharged. It is said in the ancient chronicles, "He strengthened the ruler and repressed the barons. A trans-forming Government went abroad. Dishonesty and dissoluteness hid their heads. Loyalty and good faith became the characteristics of the men, and chastity and docility those of the women. He was the idol of the people, and flew in songs through their mouths." (EB)

	Let us not link ourselves with the vilifiers of Plato and the persecutors of Confucius. They were oppressed by citizens who were considered the pride of the country. Thus has the world raised its hand against the great Servitors.
	(BR, 175)

Confusion - In the hour of confusion silence is the best friend. But let this quiet be not the stillness of malice. Though only momentarily, let the rhythm of the heart calm down. Let there be found again the quiet of psychic energy; thus will be
	strengthened the work of the centers-alight, but without inflammation.
	(BR, 73)

	"The city has been fully fortified, its walls and towers are strong, at each gate stands a sentry-no enemy can penetrate into the stronghold. However, sentinels, be wary, be not confounded by the arrows of the enemy. The arrows have been devised with special inscriptions for the purpose of distracting the attention of those on watch. The inscriptions are to allure the sentries, so that their minds will be confused and the gates will be left defenseless." Thus was described in a certain Mystery the state of psychic energy during the confusion of the spirit. ...
	Often in the Mysteries, symbols cautioning against harmful confusion were employed. One may augment strongly the psychic energy, but even the small confusion can open the gates to the most dangerous enemy. In an hour of consternation one must know how to evoke even a momentary calm. Such calmness and but one breath of prana will provide a strong shield. (BR, 74)

Conscience - The heart must be the supreme judge. Being the conscience of peoples, it will produce equilibrium. Reason is not equilibrium. (BR, 385)

Consciousness - The fundamental energy and the psychic energy is its highest quality.
	(LHR I, p 499)

	The astral plane is still full of earthly possibilities, but further on the knowledge of the spirit predominates; so earthly consciousness exists only in the earthly shell. In the astral body, however, there is still the remnant of a personal consciousness. But this consciousness is not the knowledge of the spirit. Consciousness is only one combination of skandhas. It is a confined knowledge of the spirit. The knowledge of the spirit possesses clarity of conception but it can be actively manifested only when entering into a combination of skandhas and fecundating the consciousness of the given combination. (LMG II, p 155)

	Since memory is for the past, consciousness is for the future. Therefore We replace memory by consciousness. By means of memory I cannot penetrate within the boundaries of the sun, but consciousness opens the gates. For Us, the museum and library replace the memory; therefore, disciples should not grieve over the loss of the old memory. It is simply that a small thing is replaced by a great one. Consciousness is akin to the spirit understanding; it grows until one's whole being is engulfed as in a flame. During this process the chips of memory, like dross, impede the burning. To know does not mean to remember. He who attains hastens on without looking back. Humanity must remember the transmutation of consciousness. (LMG II, p 43)

Consonance - Harmony or sympathetic vibrations. In the Teachings this word also refers to the harmony that exists between an individual's vibrations and the cosmic vibrations which results in a great creative tension and an activity known as psycho-spirituality which draws one onward in the direction of evolution and the Cosmic Magnet.
see also Dissonance

Construction - Construction built upon falsehood degenerates into hideousness.
	(BR, 111)

	Even during most tense days, think about construction. It is a mistake to strive tensely toward a narrowed goal; let construction proceed out of strivings toward the Most High. (BR, 174)

	There may be conditions that do not permit putting into practice that for which the heart is ready. Let us not expose innocent workers to danger; they can apply their abilities under other conditions. For a time let them construct Brotherhood in their thoughts. With such construction they can purify the surrounding space, and such thoughts will be salutary. But let them not fall into conceit, believing that it is sufficient to build mentally. No, the wayfarer will affirm the manifestation of achievement by human feet and human hands.
	(BR, 582)

Constructive Cross - The Constructive Cross is built when invincible striving and realization of right are impelled to meet. (H, 370)
	see also Cosmic Construction, Cosmic Reconstruction

Consummation - Life attains consummation in creativity, and the Book of Life is filled with heterogeneous energies. In fiery striving the spirit finds response. In fiery striving the heart receives a responding vibration. In the beauty of the spirit there lies the realization of the entire might of cosmic consummation. Thus, the joy of Be-ness attracts the spirit to consummation. It is inscribed in the Book of Life that the direct path to consummation leads through the heart. Thus, the cosmic law intensifies the spiritual impulses, and the life of space resounds in beauty. (INF II, 514)

Contact - Each one has a great many relations with completely unknown people. Also, his name is pronounced somewhere. Let us not forget that such distant contacts often have a greater significance than contact with our near ones. It may be noticed to what an extent remote information is reflected upon all the inner centers. But such an unquestionable circumstance almost fails to be taken into consideration. People assume that bodily contact is especially important. Let us not deny that the physical handclasp also has significance. But a thought, remote, unharmonized, can exert a very strong influence. No one can see these distant threads, but a refined consciousness feels them. (BR, 421)

	Man cooperates oftener than he supposes. He is constantly lending psychic energy. During each materialization there is a discharge of ectoplasm, but aside from this substantial discharge, people give off energy at each contact and through this are joined together, as it were. (BR, 589)

Contact, Highest - Each arch has its apex. Disturbing it causes the downfall of the entire arch. Similarly there is in life the Highest Contact without which life turns into chaos. Is it easy to sense this point of Infinity? Few have sensed it, but because of this the manifestation of Infinity has forever illumined their consciousness. Great is the concept of the subtlest energies that uplift the consciousness.
	(BR, 412)

Contact with Brothers - see Brothers

Containment - This concept has an affinity with a combination of Goal-fitness and Universal Understanding.

Achievement is not renunciation; it is containment and movement. Thus, when I say, "he who has renounced," it should be understood as, "he who has contained." It is impossible to present the substance of renunciation, because beside it nestles prohibition. But containment emphasizes conscious understanding.
	And how did the Great Mother renounce the worlds? In that She contained the greatness of the structure of the future, and henceforth nothing could hinder the growth of the spirit.
	Loyalty is a quality of the spirit of high tension, and the evincing of containment makes true achievement a joyous acquisition. (LMG II, p 176)

Someone will say: "Is vigilance, or co-measurement, or mobility, or devotion difficult? Here, I feel that I can contain all these conditions; will you not take me on the distant journey into the Community?" But has this hasty traveler thought about a certain requisite in the qualities mentioned by him? Steadfastness was forgotten. Little fires flickering only for an instant contain all the qualities of flame, but darkness engulfs them as swiftly as a brazier does a snowflake. One cannot trust an isolated moment of containment; only steadfastness, tempered by toil and by obstacles, results in a trustworthy containment. (COM, 153)

The suffering of privations is unknown to Us, for containment excludes privation. Our Teaching represents the world as rich, joyous and attractive. Like a ship filled with treasures does the indicated community rush along. Realization of the innumerable properties of matter brightly illuminates all. The matter of yesterday is clothed in a radiant fabric of energy, which is not in need of a new name but which penetrates all space and palpitates with the rainbow of human rejoicing. (COM, 263)

We speak of containment, but where is the ocean of containment outside of the heart? We recall the far-off worlds, but it is the heart, not the brain, that can remember Infinity. Thus, let us not disparage that which is bestowed upon us as the receptacle of Bliss. (H, 277)

The affirmed guide knows all the joys, all the containments of synthesis, but at the same time he knows the burden of all the manifested and unmanifested fires. This heritage of the ages is precipitated in the "chalice" as fiery strata; therefore those who bear the fire of synthesis are manifested as bearing the burden of centuries. (FW III, 74)
see also Containement, Law of

Containment, Law of - The law of containment is affirmed by all beginnings. When the cosmic creativeness is brought into strain by aspirations, the law of containment brings forth manifold formulae. In cosmic creativeness the treasury contains all manifestations of energies. In spiritual creativeness the Chalice becomes filled with the very same energies. Hence, the treasury of the spirit has to contain all energies. Thus, the law of containment governs the essential creative impulse. From the Chalice issue all creative laws and in the Chalice are gathered all cosmic manifestations. Therefore, the enrichment of the Chalice affords realization of all cosmic plans. The foundations are gathered in the Chalice, and each energy can be a creator. Thus, creativeness is molded by the law of containment. (INF II, 192)

Here the Blessed One transmits: "All is for all and forever. Note the four laws: The Law of Containment; The Law of Fearlessness; The Law of Nearness; the Law of Righteousness." (LMG II, p 56)

Contentment - Destructive is the feeling of contentment. It leads to satiation and to paralysis of energy. (BR, 78)

Continuity - Continuity is one of the basic qualities of the subtlest energies. People can take example from the higher worlds for earthly existence also. If it is difficult to maintain continuity in work, it can be fully realized in spiritual strivings. We, wayfarers of Earth, can form a link with the higher worlds in spirit; such a bond will permit us to dwell in close union with the invisible worlds. Such unity will teach also earthly unity. Beginning with the higher, let us also be affirmed in the lower. It is not easy to maintain earthly unity. Many petty circumstances intrude and blot out good intentions. Only the testing of forces in a higher application can create continuity of intercourse with the Higher World. Even in sleep it is possible to maintain the bond with the source of knowledge. Thus, even in the earthly aspect one may conform to a quality of the Higher World-continuity. (BR, 149)

Contradiction - There are many contradictions contained in man. Only the perfecting of p