Category: Philosophical | Philosophy

Philosophy: The Love of Wisdom.

In ancient times, the term was not limited to what we think of as philosophy today. It encompassed a wide range of inquiries and disciplines, including natural science, ethics, politics, metaphysics, and logic. The philosophers of Ancient Greece sought wisdom in various domains of life and knowledge.

The word made its way into Latin as “philosophia,” and then into Old French as “filosofie,” before finally entering Middle English as “philosophie.” Over time, as various academic disciplines emerged and specialized, the scope of what is considered philosophy narrowed to become more aligned with the study of fundamental questions concerning existence, knowledge, values, reason, and mind that we associate with the term today.

  • Alchemy Of Redemption

    Alchemy Of Redemption

    SIN + SUFFERING — REDEMPTIVE ALCHEMY

    When first confronted with awareness into my sinful nature, I lacked the level of discernment needed to grasp its weight.

    The corruption within is not merely a moral failing nor a series of poor preferences; it is the State of Human Beings—a distortion of what we see in the mirror…

    Face to face with the soul- you find a deformed reflection looking back at you. Something your waking mind never saw.

    You are disobedient and rebellious, torn between your conflicting desires, double-minded in your ways.

    2 Oppositional Forces

    For me, one part yearned for deep and meaningful purpose, yet another aspect was incessantly seduced by chaos, easily bated by danger, pain, and fearful things.

    I was repulsed by who I thought I was in comparison to this monstrosity. This was the truth. In that moment, every bit of evil’s horrific vices surfaced; I despised my compulsion toward gore, a freak for intensity.

    I hated it. I loved it.

    Many decades ago, when all of this happened, I had no relationship with God, the Creator of Spirit. I didn’t grasp what such a connection would involve.

    The extremes I experienced transformed my perspective.

    Looking back, I can clearly see that before my descent into the depths of Hell, I was being prepared for something Holy.

    I need to be reassembled correctly, but first, we must disassemble.

    Looking back, I can see.

    I was primed for my humiliation ritual, a necessary step for someone with such inflated pride.

    Transmutation is Suffering

    Without pain there cannot be growth.

    When suffering is truly understood, it can either transmute the soul from flesh to spirit or lead it toward total entropy as the body decays.

    Give me anguish then..

    Under the loudened silence and heavy weight of invisible sufferring, the lowness is trifling.

    Key🔑

    How to Transcend Suffering: A Step-by-Step Process

    1. Step Back to Observe

    Begin by positioning yourself at the periphery of your conscious awareness.

    Detach slightly from your immediate thoughts and emotions, allowing you to observe your inner landscape without judgment.

    2. Embrace the Essence:

    Transition into a state of deep presence by surrendering to the very essence of existence. In this space, open your mind to the subtle resonances of Being Raptured—recognize that even your suffering carries an illuminating quality that elevates it from mere pain to profound transformation.

    3. Reframe Negative Polarity:

    Understand that the challenges you face, the Negative Polarity, serve a purposeful role. Rather than resisting these forces, see them as essential tools that refine your spirit and prepare you for the transformative Gift of Duality.

    4. Acknowledge the Paradox:

    Accept the inherent paradox in Duality. Realize that by embracing both light and darkness, the Soul comes to recognize that the physical form is not separate but merely a temporary expression. This awareness guides you toward the understanding that your body—and all forms—inevitably returns to its original source, marking the end of dualistic separation.

    5. Internalize and Reflect:

    Continually return to this process. Reflect on each step and integrate this awareness into your daily life. Over time, allow this practice to transform suffering into a catalyst for spiritual growth and enlightenment.

    By following these steps, you actively engage in a process that not only alleviates suffering but also deepens your understanding of your self and the greater scheme of existence.


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  • The Serpent

    The Serpent

    BLESSING OR CURSE?

    Serpent Blessing

    The serpent’s role in the narrative of Adam and Eve reveals a deeper allegory about the nature of doubt and the internal origins of confusion.

    Deceptive & Wise Tactics of The Serpent:

    By asking implied questions rather than making direct statements, the serpent masterfully diverts Adam and Eve’s attention away from unity and truth.

    This is the serpent crown of the ancient Gods. It shows that the two paths or parts of the spirit fire have been united.

    This crown is the symbol of mastery and the union takes place within the student when the life forces are lifted to the brain. – Manly P. Hall

    Remember: The serpent can’t place anything within a human, rather, he reveals what already is within our heart.

    THE INVOCATION

    This isn’t just about deception; it is about invoking a subtle second-guessing of our own experience. It exposed the vulnerability that lay dormant within the mind.

    CONFUSION IS NOT FROM ABOVE

    Confusion does not formulate from external stimuli, it develops when internal conflict causes confusion – there forms a dissonance between the reality and our passion, a division of faith and belief.

    OUR DUALITY REVEALED

    This division reflects the struggle in every human soul, where the Spirit of discernment competes with the spirit of chaos.

    IS THE SERPENT GUILTY IN THIS STORY? NO!!!

    The serpent reveals what already exists within, like an echo reverberating what is left of the soul beyond the shadows.

    The serpent holds a mirror to the mind’s divided psyche.

    Numbers 21:9  – “So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, he lived.” 

    THE SERPENT IS OUR HELPER

    Rather than scapegoating the serpent, we should maybe acknowledge that confusion begins and ends with us.

    THE SERPENT GIVES US THE AVENUE FOR ALIGNMENT

    Within every mind lies the potential for both Disorder and Order.

    Discernment, the antidote to confusion, requires some critical things:

    intentional self-reflection

    critical thinking

    seeking divine guidance


    Selected Scriptures

    clarity over chaos

    Genesis 3:1 highlights the serpent’s cunning manipulation through a question that plants doubt: “Did God actually say…?

    1 Corinthians 14:33 reminds us, “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.”

    James 1:5 offers the path forward: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously.”

    The serpent doesn’t symbolize a mere deceiver; he embodies the already existing forces of doubt and deception.

    The serpent provokes us to question and reevaluated our own beliefs.

    The choice Adam and Eve faced was simply a reflection of their internal struggle between trust and temptation, truth and uncertainty.

    The Serpent shows us just how divided our psyche is.

    In the realm of Duality this is inevitable.

    So in my own revelation I’ve come to know the Serpent not as adversary but as a teacher that reveals my folly to me.

    Will Confusion Persist?

    Confusion will persist but can diminish to the extent that we are honest with ourselves at every level.

    It will continue to grow until we develop the ability to recognize its source.

    We know that we are thinking by faith when we trust our inner intuition without seeking external validation.

    MORE

    Masonic authors and Freemasons,   Albert G. MacKey and Harry LeRoy Haywood describe the serpents relationship to Masonry in the Encyclopedia of Freemasonry 1909 –

    In Freemasonry, the Templar and in the Philosophic Degrees — such as the Knight of the Brazen Serpent, where the serpent is combined with the cross — it is evidently a symbol of Christ ; and thus the symbolism of these Degrees is closely connected with that of the Rose Croix.

    manly_hall

    33rd Degree Freemason and Master Rosicrucian, Manly P. Hall says this about the symbol of the serpent in his book, Initiates of the Flame;

    Many ages have elapsed since the Egyptian Priest King passed through the pillars of Thebes. Ages before the sinking of Atlantis, thousands of years before the Christian Era, Egypt was a land of great truths. The hand of the Great White Brotherhood was held out to the Empire of the Nile, and the ancient pyramid passages resounded with the chants of the Initiates. It was then that the Pharaoh, now called half-human, half-divine, reigned in ancient Egypt. Pharaoh is the Egyptian word for king. Many of the later Pharaohs were degenerate and of little account. It is only the early Pharaohs we now list among the Priest Kings.

    Try to picture for a moment the great Hall of Luxor —its inscriptive columns holding up domes of solid granite, each column carved with the histories of the gods. There at the upper end of the chamber sat the Pharaoh of the Nile in his robes of state; around him his counsellors, chief among them the priest of the temple. An imposing spectacle it was: the gigantic frame of the later Atlantean, robed in gold and priceless jewels; on his head the crown of the North and South, the double empire of the ancient; on his forehead the coiled serpent of the Initiate, the serpent which was raised in the wilderness that all who looked upon it might live; that sleeping serpent power in man, which coiled head downward around the tree of life, drove him from the garden of the Lord, but which raised upon the Cross, became the symbol of the Christ.

    The Pharaoh was an Initiate of Scorpio, and the serpent is the transmuted Scorpio energy, which working upward in the regenerated individual is called the Kundalini. This serpent was the sign of Initiation. It meant that within him the serpent had been raised, for the true Pharaoh was a priest of God, as well as a master of men. There he sat upon the cube altar throne, indicating his mastery over the four elements of his physical body-a judge of the living and of the dead, who in spite of all his power and glory, having about him the grandeur of the world’s greatest empire, still bowed in humble supplication to the will of the gods. In his hands he carries the triple sceptre of the Nile, the Shepherd’s Crook, the Anubis-headed Staff and the Flail or Whip.

  • Sacred Geometrical Symbols

    Sacred Geometrical Symbols

    Vesica Piscis to the Grid of Life

    Sacred geometry is a field that not only explores the intricate patterns and shapes underlying creation, but defines it and holds within it the foundation of the origin.

    From the simple elegance of the Vesica Piscis to the profound complexity of the Grid of Life, each symbol in this geometric art holds a wealth of meaning and nuance.

    Let’s delve into these sacred geometric forms…

    Vesica Piscis: The Intersection of Opposites

    The Vesica Piscis, created by the intersection of two identical circles, represents the union of opposites.

    Its proportions have influenced architectural masterpieces and are embedded in various artistic and organizational symbols throughout history.

    The mandorla is often seen in religious art and architecture.

    Mandorla
    Mandorla in Christian Art

    The Mandorla is derived directly from the Vesica Piscis, symbolizing the canal of life, the vagina opening where all humanity derives.

    This is intersection of the earthly and celestial realms. Earthly body delivered with soul inside

    Seed of Life: The Essence of Creation

    At the heart of sacred geometry lies the Seed of Life, a design made up of seven intertwined circles.

    Its universal appeal can be witnessed in its widespread use across various religions and cultures.

    Each overlapping circle represents a cell, a cycle, or even a day, culminating in the interconnected nature of life’s processes.

    The Seed of Life speaks to the fundamental structures of life and existence, imbuing objects with a sense of protection and blessing.

    Egg of Life: The Spark of New Life

    Emerging from the Seed of Life, the Egg of Life symbolizes rebirth, fertility, and the spark of new life.

    Seed of life is vagina, Ovulation is the substamce perfecting the environment for masculine seeding, increasing pleasure increases bodily ease and diversion.

    By adding six more circles to the foundational Seed, the Egg of Life demonstrates how life and patterns expand and evolve.

    Within the three-dimensional realm, the Egg of Life can be visualized through the eight spheres nestled within Metatron’s Cube, showcasing the versatility and interconnectedness of sacred geometric symbols.

    Flower of Life: The Cosmic Blueprint

    The Flower of Life, often depicted as a series of 19 interlocking circles, is believed to be the cosmic blueprint, encoding the very design of every atomic structure and life form.

    Its presence across civilizations, from ancient Egypt to modern Japan, bears testament to its universal appeal.

    JAPANESE FLOWER OF LIFE

    Sephiroth

    Tree of Life: The Interconnectedness of All Things

    The Tree of Life represents numerous systems across varying cultures and religions, providing a hierarchical structure for all the forces in the Universe.

    Its 10 spheres, called the “Sephiroth,” represent different qualities of the Soul, divided into three pillars: the Pillar of Severity, the Pillar of Mildness, and the Pillar of Mercy.

    The Tree of Life reminds us that we are not alone in the Universe but rather part of a vast interconnected network.

    Fruit of Life: The Holy of Holies

    Emerging from the heart of the Flower of Life, the Fruit of Life comprises 13 interconnected spheres, often referred to as the ‘Holy of Holies.’

    The 13 spheres symbolize unity and a transition between realms or dimensions, while the 78 lines that emerge when linking the centers of these circles fashion Metatron’s Cube, enclosing all five Platonic solids.

    The Fruit of Life’s spheres symbolize the feminine aspects of creation, providing a foundation for the 78 masculine rays of creation.

    Metatron’s Cube: The Divine Blueprint

    Metatron’s Cube, a geometric construct associated with the archangel Metatron, is a pivotal bridge, transforming 2-dimensional realities into 3-dimensional realms.

    Within this complex geometric form, the five Platonic solids are discerned, positioning Metatron’s Cube as a testament to the divine blueprint upon which the cosmos is etched.

    As quantum physics ventures deeper into understanding existence, it continually echoes the

    Hermetic quote, “all is mind; the universe is mental,” with Metatron’s Cube in mind epitomizes the abstract, cognitive foundation of our universe.

    Grid of Life: The Masculine Counterpart

    The 64-tetrahedron, commonly termed as the ‘Grid of Life,’ is the masculine counterpart to the Flower of Life.

    This geometric form, comprising 64 individual tetrahedrons, overlays the Flower of Life, symbolizing the convergence of space and time.

    The allure of the Grid of Life transcends its geometric elegance, embedding itself in the mystique of the number 64, which recurrently surfaces in nature, mysticism, and human constructs, from genetic code to sacred texts.

    The Grid of Life emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things and underscores its significance in our understanding of the universe.

  • Light Has Power

    Light Has Power


    Unveiling Hidden Depths

    Just as the obstruction of light casts shadows, material truths only disclose a fraction of the deeper meaning and purpose hidden within spiritual reality.

    As shadows form in the absence of light, the spiritual realm illuminates the genuine essence of our existence when revealed.

    By seeking spiritual enlightenment, we can explore our soul’s profound nature and comprehend our true purpose in life.


    Contrast Provides Clarity

    Examining the interplay between illuminated and unilluminated areas of an object offers valuable insight into its shape and form.

    This principle mirrors how spiritual enlightenment unveils our true being by dispelling ignorance and confusion.

    As light and darkness intertwine, spiritual understanding brings clarity and purpose to our existence.


    Material Truth

    A Shadow of Spiritual Reality

    Material truth can be likened to a shadow cast by the spiritual reality that underpins it.

    As the sun casts a tree’s shadow, spiritual reality is the unseen force that imbues our lives with meaning.

    Recognizing this interconnection between light and shadow in our spiritual journey fosters a profound understanding of our existence.

    We must delve into the spiritual realm to uncover the genuine significance of our lives, just as we cannot fully comprehend a tree by merely observing its shadow.


    The Light of Spiritual Enlightenment

    By embracing the contrast between light and dark in our spiritual lives, we appreciate life’s complexity and strengthen our connection with the divine.

    Acknowledging the relationship between light and shadow paves the way to spiritual enlightenment, unveiling the profound truths that shape our existence.

    As light exposes the true nature of objects, spiritual enlightenment reveals our essence, guiding us towards a more significant understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

    RESEARCH

    21.1 Planck and Quantum Nature of Light – Physics | OpenStax

    This theory, which created the branch of physics called quantum mechanics, speculated that the energy radiated by the blackbody could exist only in specific numerical, or quantum, states.

    The Relationship Between Quantum Physics and Spirituality

    The intersection of quantum physics and spirituality has become a subject of profound interest in both scientific and philosophical circles. While quantum physics is a branch of science that explores the fundamental nature of reality at the smallest scales, spirituality seeks to understand the deeper meaning of existence, consciousness, and interconnectedness….

    Quantum Mechanics and Relativity’s Impact on Metaphysical Matter

    Quantum mechanics and Einstein’s theory of relativity didn’t just change science; they forced a deep rethinking of metaphysical categories like substance, causality, determinism, and even the nature of space and time.

     Quantum Theory of Soul – ResearchGate

    This quantum theory supports monism, viewing the soul, spiritual heart, mind, energy, and matter as aspects of the quantum field, and endorses panpsychism, suggesting all things possess a soul.

  • The Real Merlin

    The Real Merlin

    The real Merlin, often identified as Myrddin Wyllt, was a 6th-century figure from Welsh legend.

    Myrddin Wyllt

    Myrddin Wyllt was a legendary figure in medieval Welsh literature, who was also known as: Merlin the Wild, Merdhyn, & Marzhin Gouez.


    Resource

    He was a chief bard and a prophet, who went mad after witnessing a bloody battle and fled into the forest, where he lived among the animals and received visions of the future. 

    He was the inspiration for the character of Merlin in Arthurian legend, but he was originally a separate and independent figure from the Merlinus Ambrosius who was associated with King Arthur.

    According to some sources, Myrddin Wyllt was born in Scotland in the 6th century CE, and he was a magician and a healer as well as a poet.

    He was able to predict the outcomes of battles and other events, and many people sought his advice and guidance. 

    He was also interested in alchemy, symbolism, and esoteric knowledge, and he drew inspiration from diverse traditions such as Platonism, Hermeticism, Rosicrucianism, and Eastern philosophies.

    “It might be said that the secret of Merlin was carried on by alchemy…”

    C.G. Jung

    Myrddin Wyllt’s legend is closely related to that of Lailoken, a wild man of the woods who was also a prophet and a madman in Scottish folklore.

    Some scholars believe that they were the same person, while others argue that they were different but influenced by each other. 

    Myrddin Wyllt’s grave is said to lie near the River Tweed in the village of Drumelzier near Peebles, although nothing remains above ground level at the site.

    Myrddin Wyllt is the speaker of several poems in The Black Book of Carmarthen and The Red Book of Hergest, two of the most important manuscripts of Welsh literature.

    In these poems, he expresses his sorrow and regret for the loss of his friends and his former life, and he also reveals his prophetic insights and his mystical experiences.

    Here is an example of one of his poems, translated from Middle Welsh into English:

    I am Myrddin; and Myrddin is my name; I know what is, and what will be, and what has been. I converse with the stars, and the wind whispers to me; I have been in the depths of the sea, and in the heights of the sky; I have seen the secrets of the sun, and the mysteries of the moon; I have heard the song of the earth, and the music of the spheres; I have been a bard in the court of a king, a wild man in the forest; I have loved and lost, and suffered and rejoiced; I am Myrddin; and Myrddin is my name.

    Ask British historian Nikolai Tolstoy and he’ll tell you without hesitation:

    Merlin was indeed an historical figure, living in what are now the Lowlands of Scotland at the end of the sixth century A.D. … he was an authentic prophet, most likely a druid surviving in a pagan enclave of the North. Much of the early poetry attributed to him in Welsh manuscripts is drawn, it seems most likely, from an earlier body of authentic prophetic verse uttered by Merlin himself.”

    sourceThe Quest for Merlin


    Resources

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myrddin_Wyllt

    https://folklore.wales/myrddin-wyllt/

    https://listverse.com/2016/09/11/10-reasons-the-legendary-merlin-could-be-real/

    https://mypoeticside.com/poets/myrddin-wyllt-poems

  • Metaphysics of Shadow and Light

    Metaphysics of Shadow and Light

    The Essence of Shadow

    The concept of shadow originates from the Old English term sceadu, which signifies darkness or an area where light is blocked.

    In a metaphorical sense, the shadow is often associated with the parts of ourselves that we choose to hide or suppress.

    It can represent our fears, insecurities, and the unexplored or unacknowledged aspects of our personality.

    In Jungian psychology, the shadow is an integral part of the unconscious mind consisting of repressed weaknesses, shortcomings, and instincts.

    The Unknown of Shadow

    The shadow harbors the unknown, the parts of our existence that remain out of the light of conscious awareness.

    It is the repository of those characteristics that we often do not wish to admit to ourselves.

    Engaging with our shadow can be a daunting process, as it requires us to confront aspects of our identity that we may find uncomfortable or difficult to accept.

    However, it is through this confrontation and acceptance that personal growth can occur.

    The Luminance of Light

    In contrast, light, stemming from the Old English lēoht, is the natural agent that stimulates sight and makes things visible.

    Light is synonymous with understanding, knowledge, and visibility. It is often associated with the divine, with truth, and with the higher aspects of the human spirit.

    Light as Clarity and Truth

    Light represents the pursuit of knowledge, the illumination of the mind, and the revelation of truths previously obscured.

    It is the symbol of enlightenment, both in the intellectual sense and in the spiritual sense, as many traditions associate light with the divine and the transcendent.

    The Interplay of Shadow and Light

    The dynamic between shadow and light is a fundamental theme in many philosophical, psychological, and spiritual traditions.

    It is a representation of the dual nature of existence, where light cannot exist without darkness, and vice versa.

    Each gives meaning and context to the other.

    Spiritual Evolution Through Shadow and Light

    These two forces are essential for spiritual evolution.

    By acknowledging and integrating our shadow, we can move towards a state of wholeness and self-realization.

    This process is not just about seeking the light but also about understanding and embracing the darkness within.

    It is through this balance that one can achieve inner peace and a deeper connection with the self.

    Embracing the Duality for Inner Peace

    To embrace both shadow and light is to accept the full spectrum of the human experience.

    It is to recognize that our flaws and our strengths are intertwined and that acknowledging both can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling existence.

    This journey towards equilibrium is not just about self-improvement but also about self-acceptance, and it is within this vast universe of being that we can discover our true selves.

  • Understanding Discernment

    Understanding Discernment

    Discernment is the skill of detecting subtle inaccuracies within seemingly correct concepts, akin to identifying a counterfeit bill amidst genuine currency.

    It’s a critical cognitive ability that enables one to differentiate between nearly right and truly right, often revealing hidden flaws that escape the general consensus.

    Discernment Can Be Inconvenient

    While many claim to value discernment, its practical application can be inconvenient, leading to its dismissal or mischaracterization by those it challenges.

    Challenges of  Discernment

    Discernment is not merely an intellectual exercise; it is a profound mental tool that separates truth from error and right from wrong.

    It is the mental equivalent of mining for gemstones, where one must sift through layers of debris to uncover the valuable core.

    In a world rife with contradictions, discernment is the light that cuts through the fog, revealing clarity and wisdom.

    Dilemma of the Discerning

    Those who practice discernment often face resistance.

    Their insights can unsettle established norms and beliefs, leading to their portrayal as argumentative or contrarian.

    The discerning individual, by pointing out overlooked flaws, can create tension and discomfort, as they challenge the comfort of the status quo.

    Root of  “Discernment” is Seperation

    The term “discernment” originates from the Latin “dis” (apart) and “cernere” (to separate), reflecting the act of distinguishing or separating elements from one another.

    Discernment in Scripture

    According to Hebrews 4:12, discernment is a divine capacity given by the word of God, which is described as sharper than any double-edged sword. It is capable of dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

    For believers, discernment is crucial for navigating life’s complexities and aligning with God’s will, even when it contradicts popular opinion.

    The Art of Biblical Discernment

    This concept is explored through the lens of biblical teachings, emphasizing the importance of discernment in making sound decisions and understanding deep truths.

    It involves questioning assumptions and seeking wisdom from ancient scriptures while integrating modern scientific understanding of human behavior.

    Discernment as a Sifter

    Like a fine-meshed sifter, discernment separates the substantial from the insubstantial, allowing us to recognize truth amidst deception.

    It is an intuitive understanding, a result of careful analysis, and a learned skill from experience.

    Enhancing Discernment

    To refine discernment, one can practice habitual mindfulness, be present in the moment, develop self-awareness, and embrace diverse beliefs.

    These practices help in recognizing biases, understanding complex issues, and making informed decisions.

    Discernment as a Gift and Skill

    Discernment is both a spiritual gift and a skill that can be honed.

    It allows us to perceive the true nature of situations and understand people’s motives.

    While it is a gift from the Holy Spirit, it can be sharpened through experience, prayer, and the pursuit of wisdom.

    Synonyms of Discernment

    1. Judgment: The ability to make considered decisions after thorough analysis.
    2. Evaluation: The assessment of the value or significance of something.
    3. Critical thinking: The logical and rational analysis of information.
    4. Intuition: Trusting inner knowledge that guides understanding without conscious reasoning.

    The Pursuit of Truth

    Truth is the foundation of discernment, representing an objective understanding of reality. It is the bedrock upon which knowledge and trust are built, allowing for coherent interactions.

    Addressing Gossip and Vanity

    Discernment also plays a role in personal growth, steering one away from gossip and superficial concerns towards deeper wisdom.

    In summary, discernment is a multifaceted ability that is essential for recognizing truth, making wise decisions, and navigating life’s moral and spiritual challenges.

    It is a tool for navigating between the allure of appearances and the pursuit of meaningful existence.

    It is a skill that can be developed and a gift to be cherished, guiding individuals toward a more profound understanding and a life aligned with higher principles.

  • THE ORIGINAL HIPPOCRATIC OATH

    THE ORIGINAL HIPPOCRATIC OATH

    The Hippocratic Oath, an ancient ethical code, is credited to the renowned Greek physician Hippocrates who lived around 400 BCE. This oath stands as one of the oldest historical documents dating back to the 5th century B.C.

    The Oath Had 4 Parts:

    • A pledge to pagan deities
    • A list of positive obligations.
    • A list of negative obligations.
    • A concluding piety.

    Each section has ethical implications. 

    Side A of Oxyrhyncus Papyrus 2547. (View Larger)
    Oxyrhyncus Papyrus 2547” a fragment of the Hippocratic oath written in Greek in Egypt about 275 CE. 

    This manuscript was found in a body of manuscripts, called the Hippocratic Collection (Corpus Hippocraticum), survived until modern times. In addition to containing information on medical matters, the collection embodied a code of principles for the teachers of medicine and for their students. This code, or a fragment of it, has been handed down in various versions through generations of physicians as the Hippocratic oath.

    The oath has changed since Hippocrates first wrote it.

    2 Versions of the Hippocratic Oath:

    The original and The Modern

      Original Hippocratic Oath:


    I swear by Apollo the physician, and Aesculapius, and Hygieia and Panacea and all the gods and goddesses as my witnesses, that, according to my ability and judgement, I will keep this Oath and this contract:

    To hold him who taught me this art equally dear to me as my parents, to be a partner in life with him, and to fulfill his needs when required; to look upon his offspring as equals to my own siblings, and to teach them this art, if they shall wish to learn it, without fee or contract; and that by the set rules, lectures, and every other mode of instruction, I will impart a knowledge of the art to my own sons, and those of my teachers, and to students bound by this contract and having sworn this Oath to the law of medicine, but to no others.

    I will use those dietary regimens which will benefit my patients according to my greatest ability and judgement, and I will do no harm or injustice to them.

    I will not give a lethal drug to anyone if I am asked, nor will I advise such a plan; and similarly I will not give a woman a pessary to cause an abortion.

    In purity and according to divine law will I carry out my life and my art.

    I will not use the knife, even upon those suffering from stones, but I will leave this to those who are trained in this craft.

    Into whatever homes I go, I will enter them for the benefit of the sick, avoiding any voluntary act of impropriety or corruption, including the seduction of women or men, whether they are free men or slaves.

    Whatever I see or hear in the lives of my patients, whether in connection with my professional practice or not, which ought not to be spoken of outside, I will keep secret, as considering all such things to be private.

    So long as I maintain this Oath faithfully and without corruption, may it be granted to me to partake of life fully and the practice of my art, gaining the respect of all men for all time. However, should I transgress this Oath and violate it, may the opposite be my fate.

    Source

    MORE RESOURCES

    https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.01.0252

    https://journals.healio.com/doi/10.3928/01477447-20210819-08

  • Is it Assumption?—Is it Discernment?

    Is it Assumption?—Is it Discernment?

    “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.”

    – 1 John 4:1

    Strive to discern the truth by carefully weighing facts against subjective viewpoints.

    Wisdom lies in recognizing what is objective and what stems from individual perceptions.

    Embrace this distinction for a clearer understanding of information and beliefs.

    Filtering through biases and seeking objective truth can lead to a deeper understanding of reality.

    Embracing critical thinking and being open to alternative viewpoints can help refine one’s perception and enable more informed decision-making.

    So, are you truly discerning the truth, or are you solely relying on your opinion?

    It’s a question worth pondering in the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom.

    “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.”

    – Colossians 2:8
  • Gossip is the Ego’s Need For Attention

    Gossip is the Ego’s Need For Attention

    The act of gossiping is a manifestation of the ego’s desire for attention, translating to a lust for power: the only way some people can feel they have a sense of control…



    Feeding on the Weak

    Gossip feeds on the weaknesses of others, and it can take many forms; from the subtle sharing of information to the outright spreading of lies.

    Gossip is dangerous, for it can lead to the destruction of trust and the erosion of respect.

    When we engage in gossip, we are not only harming others, but we are also damaging our own spiritual growth.



    Heart Of Gossip

    Gossiping reveals the darkness that resides within us, the sin that we carry in our hearts.

    “Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it.”


    James 4:11

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    The Fruit of Insecure Fear is Gossip

    Gossip manifests the fruits of our deep-seated insecurities & fears, which we try to mask by tearing down others, intensifying the depth of the downward cycle.

    This is a futile attempt at finding validation, for it only perpetuates a cycle of negativity and harm.



    The Nature Of Gossip

    The insidious nature of gossip is rooted in its ability to ignite and spread like a raging inferno.

    It is a force that can quickly consume and destroy all in its path, leaving nothing but smoldering ruins in its wake.

    As each person adds their embellishments and twists to the tale, the flames grow higher and hotter until the truth is lost in a haze of smoke and confusion.

    Innocent people are often caught in the crossfire, their reputations and relationships scorched by the unforgiving flames of gossip.


    See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire!

    And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell.

    – James 3:5-6

    THERE IS A SOLUTION!

    Don’t Participate

    At the core of our being lies the power to stop the spread of negativity.

    It starts with a simple, yet profound act of choosing not to participate in gossip.

    Our words hold great power, and that we must use them wisely, lest we become the unwitting arsonists of our own destruction.

    By declining to engage in such conversations, we are taking a stand for truth and integrity.

    We must resist the temptation to repeat rumors, for they only serve to perpetuate falsehoods and sow discord.


    Gossip Damages Our Own Soul

    At its core, gossiping is a manifestation of a lack of respect for the privacy and dignity of others.

    It is a betrayal of trust and a violation of the sacred bond of any relationship.

    When we engage in gossip, we are not only harming the person we are talking about, but we are also damaging our own souls. We are giving in to the temptation of ego and pride, seeking to elevate ourselves by tearing others down.

    Actual spiritual growth requires us to resist this temptation and instead cultivate compassion and empathy toward others.


    Treat Others How You Want To Be Treated

    We must learn to see the divine in everyone and treat them with the same love and respect we would want for ourselves.

    Only then can we truly live in harmony with the universe and fulfill our true purpose in life.


    Treat others the same way you want them to treat you.

    Luke 6:31

    Treat Others How You Want To Be Treated

    The act of spreading rumors and gossip is not only harmful to the victim, but it also reveals the character of the person spreading it.

    As believers, we are called to guard our tongues and speak life-giving words.

    Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
    And those who love it will eat its fruit.

    Proverbs 18:21

    Those who love death… eat death’s fruit.
    Those who love life… eat life’s fruit.


    IDENTITY IS IN CHRIST, NOT SELF

    When faced with gossip, we must remember that our worth and identity are either in Satan or Christ, and you’re known by the fruits…

    “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…”

    – Galatians 5:22-23


    JESUS:

    “By this My Father is glorified:
    hat you bear much fruit & so prove to be My disciples.”

    -John 15:8


    Words Have Great Power

    Gossiping breaks trust and violates sacred bonds between people.

    You will reap the rewards …


    Speak What Is Truly Helpful

    We should be careful with our words, speaking only what is helpful and uplifting to others, our words have the power to either build up or tear down.

    Gossip Is A Reflection Of Spiritual Immaturity

    Gossiping reflects the gossiper’s lack of spiritual awareness & disrespect towards the sanctity of their fellow’s being, spitting in the face of the God they claim.

    “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”

    Proverbs 16:28

    Gossip Violates Trust

    It is not only a distasteful habit but also a violation of the trust.

    “The tongue is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.”

    James 3:6

    Gossip Creates Negative Energy

    By negative, I mean demonic.

    When we surround ourselves with engagers of gossip we invite negative energy into our mentality.

    Obviously those who speak ill of others are not operating from a place of love and kindness.

    By distancing ourselves from this behavior, we are protecting our own soul, preserving our integrity.



    WE ARE GODS VESSELS

    God calls us to be His chosen vessels, carrying out His Will on earth.

    Unity is key to reflecting God’s image, and we must strive to be like Him, embracing our enemies, setting aside our differences with Wisdom.

    Trust is  crucial, as we must keep each other’s secrets and avoid gossip. Let us embody these qualities to create a more peaceful world where God’s love reigns supreme.

    God’s love reigns supreme.

    Do you love?

    Or are you a vessel preserved for wrath?



    Bible Verses:

    Proverbs 11:17 – “A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.”

    Colossians 3:12 – “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.”

    Proverbs 11:13 – “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.”

    1 Peter 3:8 – “Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.”

    Proverbs 25:9 – “Argue your case with your neighbor himself, and do not reveal another’s secret,”

    Proverbs 11:13 – “Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.”