With a foreword by Member Professor Peter Stewart, this magisterial work is a greatly extended version of the author’s earlier book Mirages in Western Science Resolved by Occult Science. The breadth of coverage and depth of thought are truly remarkable as the work of a single scholar. Edi has studied the detail and relationships of many different disciplines and integrated them into an overarching view of the relationship between Western science and occult insight or gnosis. Network readers will be familiar with the background of much of the material presented here as a development of the original work of HP Blavatsky. Both Theosophists and early members of the SPR felt that a marriage between science and mysticism was eminently possible, and that science did not have to entail an exclusively materialistic world view.
As we know, the quest and the struggle continue after 130 years. Edi makes his own position clear when he writes that ‘Occult Science is not bent on toppling, but rather on uplifting Western science to an even nobler position, by using examples from Western science itself to show how it is rooted in the deeper substratum of Occult Science and Philosophy.’ One needs to remind oneself that the word
science is derived from the Latin ‘scientia’, meaning knowledge in a wider sense.
The book falls into three major parts: an exposition of Western science, and especially its findings on cosmology, consciousness, sound and light. The second part treats the different methodological approaches of Western science and occult science, while the third part is a detailed exposition of the tenets of occult science and the ways in which it can underpin and extend the understanding of modern physical science. Edi is a very clearly aware of the intrinsic limitations of modern science as an approach based on quantification and which does not have a coherent account of the subjective nature of consciousness.
He shows how the mind is used within this structure of argument effectively to deny itself, and draws attention to the importance of presuppositions, criticising, for instance, the assumption that realism can be equated with reality. The essential distinction between the two approaches is that scientific truth is acquired from without and is utterly different from spiritual truth revealed from within. It is the distinction between observation and participation. The author’s discussion of this point would have benefited from some references to the work of Ken Wilber, who analyses the question of
intersubjective verification of mystical insights. However, he does draw usefully on the work of Paul Brunton.
The second part begins with a discussion of the nature and structure of the Divinity, which contains some brilliant analysis of such concepts as manifestation in relation to limitation and form, and the emergence of duality and diversity within the framework of the unity of existence. He rejects the notion of a personal God who created the universe at a particular time, arguing that the universe is not separate from God, but an organic or bodily expression of deity itself. Divine action is manifested through the harmonizing principle of karma.
The principal duality responsible for manifestation is explained in terms of Shiva or divine consciousness and Shakti or divine power, a structural duality that can be found at every level of existence. This topic, as with many others, is amply illustrated by means of extensive charts. I found Edi’s definition of substance somewhat unusual, as he defined it as the ‘subjective, noumenal term applied to the formmaking or vehicle-providing principle of which the object of realisation is Matter.’ The function of this within Western thought would be equivalent to a morphogenetic field. Matter remains a vehicle for manifestation.
This section also contains a very useful discussion of the relationship between light and consciousness. There is an extensive chapter on various ways in which issues within modern science are resolved through occult science. This takes the form of a proposition, followed by an elucidation from Western science and a resolution using the principles of occult science.
The main proposition of the book is that at the root of the physical universe is Consciousness or Mind – hence efforts to detect such a reality by purely physical means will never be successful. Deep self-knowledge is a prerequisite to inner insight, which stands as complementary to the outerdirected methods of modern science. Edi is highly critical of the onesidedness of a purely quantitative approach, and of the ways in which scientism castigates those who do not follow its dictates. Vast though the range of the book is, the principal focus on Theosophical writings means that the works of other perennial philosophers receive little or no attention: Nasr, Schuon, Guenon, Coomaraswamy and Ken Wilber for example.
I also felt that the rhetorical device, used twice, of a dialogue between the archetypal sceptical scientist (ASS) versus an occultist, wise and learned (OWL) lowered the tone, even if it provided some amusement. Occultists and perennial philosophers can also be rigid and dogmatic. However, these are small reservations in relation to such a profound work, which will repay close study.
By: Edi Bilimoria
Posts Tagged ‘Modern Science’
Towards a Gnostic Science
January 1st, 2010Scientific Research Regarding Modern Material and Spiritual Sciences
December 16th, 2009Material Science can be defined as understanding the potentials of this material universe and then making apt use of them. On the other hand Spiritual Science deals with the advancement of our consciousness so as to attain eternal unlimited bliss (Ananda). Human beings need to pay heed to both these in a balanced manner. Based on spiritual tenets Vital Force consciousness is made balanced in an optimal fashion. The physical body is made up of matter and hence materials are required to maintain a sound healthy body. In order to lead a balanced life both these are very essential for world humanity. If only spirituality and modern science work together in a healthy balanced manner can individuals and the entire world, lead a life of material comforts and spiritual bliss.
And yet it is our ill fate today that the gigantic potentials of materialism and spiritualism refuse to work in tandem with one another in a healthy cooperative manner. Forget cooperation both are at loggerheads with each other and are busy casting aspersions on each other. Modern Science virtually scoffs at the existence of God, our soul and fruits of actions (Karma Phala). Those who believe in only that knowledge/proof dished out by our 5 senses (eyes, ears, nose, tongue, skin) also believe in only the utility of ‘I’ and ‘mine’ and nothing beyond that. With the result man has not only become an atheist but unethical too. Since a major chunk of world humanity follow rank materialism and nothing beyond that their thinking too has become blind and deluded. Today selfishness, unruliness and terrorist activities are ruling the roost. This has totally weakened individual characters and a sense of oneness with the world has disappeared into thin air. No doubt Modern Science has advanced our economic and intellectual prowess in a manifold manner and yet unfortunately immense distortions too have simultaneously grown like weeds in man’s conscious arena. Dangers and clouds of destruction are looming large all over the globe. It seems as though the days of super destruction are just round the corner.
After having said all this it is now the turn of Spiritual Sciences. They have failed to give healthy logical answers to the allegations made by Modern Science against them. Not only this spirituality angrily lashed out at science and set up an illusory dream like world for itself where science was refused entry. Obviously the vast intellectual class got irked and labeled Spiritual Science as a set of blind beliefs and means of fulfilling selfish unbecoming desires. With the result spirituality remained demeaned and man’s material prowess got a shock. World humanity has sadly lost all those benefits ere had Spiritual Sciences and Material Sciences worked in healthy tandem with one another. Today world individuals face debacle and the globe’s all round balance too has become grim. Only those subtle seers of the world who have gauged the havoc inflicted on the layman’s life, world management etc by all these developments. These great seers naturally are worried and uneasy if a solution is not found and applied immediately.
Today in the world the need of the hour is that modern science and spirituality, matter and consciousness work in whole hearted cooperation with one another. As a result an individual’s glory and world management can reach higher peaks of all round advancement. In order to target this super goal Brahmavarchas Research Institute (Address: Shantikunj, Haridwar, Uttaranchal, India, website: www. awgp. org) is conducting research studies in a very scientific manner so that modern science and spiritual sciences work in smooth tandem with one another. This mutual cooperation can be compared to the Samudra Manthan or ‘Churning of the Ocean’ as depicted in Indian Mythology called Puranas. In that the ‘demons’ (not literally speaking since it is just an allegory) of modern science and ‘demigods’ of spiritual science worked in tandem so as to churn the ocean and thus obtain 14 priceless jewels. Today’s times demand that this sort of cooperation take place again between modern science and spirituality. Brahmavarchas Research Institute (Address: Shantikunj, Haridwar, Uttaranchal, India, website: www. awgp. org) has already commenced this on a war like footing.
The task at hand is quite difficult and hence not easy at all. This is because all ancient precepts have to undergo the test using modern scientific techniques which so far were superficially accepted as “Rishi-tenets”. The Brahmavarchas Research Institute has authored a gigantic text which encompasses ancient Rishi texts, philosophical principles and modern day scientific laws. All worldwide principles with reference to science and spirituality (scientific journals, scriptures etc) have been collected on a mammoth scale. Great thinkers and scientists the world over are reflecting over these details deeply so that science and spirituality mutually cooperate with one another and thus bestow both material and spiritual prosperity on world denizens. Ultimately the age old dream of great leaders and thinkers of the world can definitely be realized viz. “A BEAUTIFUL BORDERLESS WORLD”.
Spiritual philosophy, sacred sentimental feelings, idealistic behavior and a disciplined life is not merely the figment of one’s imagination because they encompass not merely logic, precept, proof etc. , but also modern scientific principles. Without proving all this very conclusively it is well nigh impossible to re-manifest faith that has been lost in the soul of today’s highly intellectual and professional world human beings. Scriptural proof and the Rishi tradition does not hold as much water as it did many decades back. If under such circumstances we sit listlessly devoid of hope the situation in future will turn even scarier. Over and above losing faith in spiritual values it will lead to a life devoid of ethics, duty bound nature, commitment, accountability, human values, love for all etc. In turn man’s intelligent wiliness devoid of ethics and human values will create anarchy, unruliness, terror, tainted viewpoint etc in the entire world. Thus idealistic thinking, generosity, disciplined living etc will all remain a thing of the past.
Keeping in mind that the world over people abhor practicing spiritual tenets it has now become most important that those priceless teachings of great Rishis, thinkers and philosophers of the world be tested scientifically which encompasses logic, sound principles, proof etc. Only then can the present day ‘ethical anarchy’ be nullified so as to replace it with high ethical living both professionally and socially. Research studies conducted by Brahmavarchas Research Institute involves experimentation, scientific research and analysis in this direction. It has a well equipped gigantic laboratory including modern day scientific technology and apparatus. In addition it has a superb collection of books, journals and other required literature from the world over. Highly qualified research scientists are experimenting in this unique scientific institute so as to achieve the supreme goal of raising man’s ethical, material and spiritual status. So far some very encouraging findings have come their way and they are very sure that in the near future the goal of raising world humanity’s glory to its pinnacle will no doubt be achieved.
Nature has designed such machines in the form of the human body and brain which helps man easily carry out his daily chores with élan. The subtle body has so many mysterious layers which help us correlate them to cosmic Divine Powers and tap the latter for apt material and spiritual advancement. Brahmavarchas Research Institute makes use of apt research techniques for carrying out experiments and research, on the subtle human body and its relation with cosmic powers. The 6 Chakras, 5 Sheaths (Koshas), subtle complexes and glands, subtle plexuses, divine Yogic nerves, vital energy flow, Sahasrar, Mooladhar, Sushumna, Kundalini centers etc abound with infinite divine energy. If these are awakened and made optimum use of man can raise his ordinary status into an extraordinary one and his Extra Sensory Potential (ESP) too will augment by leaps and bounds.
Shantikunj (Haridwar, Uttaranchal, India) the HQ of All World Gayatri Parivar conducts many spiritual camps where one finds thousands of spiritual participants. As per their inner state and requirements they are made to do Sadhana (spiritual practice) and its results are noted down in detail. As per our observations the bodily health, intellectual brilliance, sentimental potential, Ojas, Tejas, Varchas and divine aura of these aspirants augmented a great fold which imbues strong belief in us that in future much more gigantic achievements will come our way at the world level. Aspirants who undergo Sadhana find a great difference wherein their mental weakness, ill health, bad habits, mental taints and complexes are eradicated from their very roots. Instead good health, special qualities, divine aura, intellectual brilliance etc bloom forth amazingly.
Dev Sanskriti (divine culture) has 2 foundation stones viz. Gayatri and Yajna. Gayatri is a Super Divine Science that encompasses Mantra Science too. Within Mantra Science word power of an individual is awakened which in turn augments our Vital Force manifold times. Almighty God is also called Shabda Brahman or Divine Sound and Naad Brahman. The Gayatri Mantra is interwoven and meditated upon on this basis. Mantra Science helps one augment ones divine potential greatly, make use of it for others material/spiritual advancement and both the material world and subtle world’s atmosphere gets transformed in a positive manner. Today we are scientifically analyzing as to what extent the precepts of Gayatri hold true in today’s modern age. In fact the results so far are outstanding wherein Super Mantra Gayatri chanting and meditation manifest mysterious DivinePpowers in the devotee’s subtle body. In the near future we are confident that more such valuable information will be unearthed by us all.
Agnihotra practices (fire rites) as per scriptural injunctions help overcome diseases and mental taints and complexes like lust, greed, envy, criminal instincts etc. Based on scriptural tenets we are trying to prove whether all this can be overcome including natural disasters and calamities. We are quite sure that when the true principles and method of Agnihotra will be identified via research it will be at par with existing methods and cures that humanity resorts to today. It will augment both physical and mental health without any side effects and that our very life force and Vital Force will be made intensely radiant.
Shantikunj (Haridwar, UtTaranchal, India) has built a gigantic garden that grows various herbs including very rare ones. These herbs are used in Yajnopathy i. e. curing diseases by using these herbs grown in various types of Yajnas (Vedic fire sacrifices). Today we have set up a modern scientific laboratory to experiment on these herbs and prove that what is written in our ancient scriptures regarding their method of cure is absolutely true even in today’s modern computer age. From the standpoint of therapy every herb is tested to find out which disease/diseases are cured by it.
Yajna has other priceless benefits too. Vital Force energy rains from interstellar space on Earth which is absorbed by creatures, plants etc dwelling on it. We are studying how it can be made more nourishing for us all on our globe. Yajnas also help eradicate atmospheric and other types of pollution. Yajna energy can help radiate our personalities by warding off mental taints. A philosophical research in this area too is being conducted by us very minutely.
Astrological Sciences believe inter planetary rays and emissions influence the Earth’s atmosphere, the Vital Force of all beings and plants, trees etc. The present day calculations of their findings are in a state of doubt for majority of world humanity. With reference to their influence mere approximations are put forth. It is our ill fate that this priceless science which can influence various aspects of human life in a positive manner remains listless in a cloud of doubt. Brahmavarchas Research Institute has set up a Vedic School which has all requirements and means used in ancient times. With its aid predominantly the true state of the planets, satellites etc of the Solar System are gauged. It is done so that one can find out how a particular state of a particular planet etc influences which group, when and in what manner? If such apt and accurate predictions are made successfully will they not help man the world over overcome problems and thus increase his material and spiritual prosperity? With reference to this astrological research a new Panchang (almanac) has been published wherein apart from the planets mentioned in ancient texts the influence of more recently identified planets (Neptune, Uranus, Pluto) too has been elucidated. Astrology can strongly influence Spiritual Science and hence it too is a part of our research at Brahmavarchas. In order to unearth information regarding the subtle results of conscious inter planetary influences new beliefs and scientific technology too have been made use of apart from apparatus that has been used so far since ancient times. Keeping this in mind our research also includes a deep scientific study of Astrological Sciences.
Over and above all this we are also researching into the other unknown and subtle mysteries of cosmic nature. A major aspect of this research focuses on the basis, nature and mode of awakening of the unlimited Extra Sensory Powers (ESP-albeit in a latent state) that lie untapped in man’s psyche/soul.
This cosmos is also pervaded by groups of invisible beings. They are called ghosts, Satan, demigods, angels etc. The question is if they do exist what is the nature/form of their existence? Assuming a relationship gets established between man and these subtle beings, will both mutually benefit or that one of them gains and the other experiences a lack? This area too is being researched into by us. We are making all efforts to prove our point via scientific means, sound logic and required proof.
With reference to precepts detailed in spiritual texts we take recourse to the findings, speech, experience and the required proof given by great philosophers, saints and Rishis of yore. Simultaneously we are trying to re-prove these very ancient precepts with reference to the 25 major categories of modern science by using modern scientific research techniques. We have kept in mind more such other areas of science and soon we shall delve into them too.
It has already been emphatically said that both Spiritual Science and Modern Material Science are 2 Super Powers of this world. If both cooperate with one another we can reach the portals of Ultimate Reality and Truth. Thus when both these commence proclaiming the same reality and truth regarding this cosmos people the world over will accept and imbibe them in their lives very easily. We must fully hope that this seemingly small experiment of ours will not only benefit individuals but the entire world at large both materially and spiritually.
The Book of Job and Modern Science
December 16th, 2009Ancient books that discuss history, geography, or science contain many errors. Current editions of many medical books become totally useless in less than a decade. In the light of this it would be quite illuminating to examine the scientific passages the very ancient book of Job.
Of all the books in Bible, scholars regard Job as the oldest. This book has been put almost in the middle of the Old Testament — instead of being placed according to chronology — because all the poetic books have been grouped into one in the middle of Old Testament. The story in the book has taken place somewhat at, or even before, the time of Abraham. This means that the narratives recorded in this books are perhaps more than four thousand years old.
Today researchers have in their collection a good amount of literature produced in ancient times. Archeologists have unearthed thousands of clay tablets and other written material that gives us a fairly good idea of the cultural and scientific development attained by people of old. This can then be compared with the information recorded in the book of Job to see whether the divine inspiration of this book has left any special mark on it or not.
One of the best and easiest things to do in this matter is to examine the scientific content of the ancient literature. We all know that people who lived in these ancient societies maintained many erroneous ideas regarding the natural world, and these ideas are often carried into their writings — preserved now for our study. However, when one compares the ancient literature with the book of Job, which is equally ancient, we will find a striking difference.
Whenever ancient writers wrote about the natural world, they affirmed many things that were wrong, foolish, or even silly. This was not always their fault, but rather the consequence of their ignorance. Logically, if the book of Job is a product of only human writers, then it should exhibit a similar pattern of errors. This would be an enlightening experiment because the book of Job is full of comments about the natural world. Even a cursory reading will reveal over one hundred references to the natural world.
However, what strikes a careful reader is the sanity of these comments. The ancients had very bizarre ideas about the world, its origin and its day-to-day happenings. For example, people of many ancient civilizations considered the solar and lunar eclipse as the result of giants swallowing up the sun and the moon, respectively. In fact, without exception, almost all comments which the ancient people made regarding the natural world were ridiculous. However, the book of Job shows an unusual balance of thought and a restraint from wild imaginations. And, even more than the restraint, many of the statements have turned out to be highly accurate assessments of the physical world and its natural processes. Just a few of these examples are cited below.
Air is felt by all of us when a breeze moves past our faces. However, it is an entity that can neither be seen nor touched. It is difficult to imagine that it would have any weight, and for thousands of years people did not know that air has any weight. In fact a few hundred years ago, a person venturing to suggest that air has weight would have been laughed out of court even by the most scholarly people of his times.
It is only in the recent centuries that scientists who study air demonstrated that it has a significant amount of weight. Even today people are amazed when we tell them that air has a measurable weight — and it requires some effort to convince them. However, the book of Job says about God’s activity, “When He imparted weight to the air” (Job 28:25). Had the scientists taken this statement seriously, they could have discovered this fact much before the time when they actually discovered this property of air.
The study of moon is another example. For thousands of years moon has been considered a SOURCE of pure, soft, and undefiled light. Similar to the sun and stars, moon was also understood as emitting its own light. It is only after the invention of telescopes that people understood the real nature of moonlight — it is the light of sun, reflected from the dusty surface of moon. But in the four thousand year old discourse with Job, Bildad says that “If even the moon has no brightness” then how much is the glory of man (Job 25:5-6).
If the Bible were a book written merely by human authors using their human intelligence alone, then this books should not have been any different from the rest of the ancient writings. In these ancient writings, even when produced by the wisest men of that generation, we find scores of scientific errors. This is a rule of this world that even the best of the brains cannot escape the scientific fallacies of his age. This is such a universal fact that even medical books written merely a hundred years ago are full of scientific blunders. About 160 different organs in the body were considered — and declared — vestigial and useless; today almost all of these have been discovered to be vital for the functioning of the human body.
Whenever human authors comment upon the natural world, they are bound to repeat the erroneous beliefs of their generation. However, when it comes to the speakers in the book of Job they do not make a single mistake, even though they make hundreds of references to the natural world. On the contrary, many of their observations were scientifically so advanced that scientists discovered those truths only in the recent times. Surely one has to look to the Divine Hand behind the writing of Bible to explain this.
By: Dr. Johnson C. Philip
