We all have TVs nowadays and quite often watch programs dealing with E.S.P. (extra-sensory perception), ghosts, reincarnation and what happens after death. The events shown seem real enough but do the explanations given by the commentators 'ring true'?
To really understand these phenomena, which are today called 'paranormal', one has to accept that there are levels of existence beyond those generally accepted by scientists. Theosophy provides a basis for their existence, with a concept of subtle energy fields extending as a continuumum beyond the known energies of the tangible world. The practice of astrology, dowsing, spiritual healing and spiritualistic séances, all recognise and use these subtle fields.
Theosophical studies suggest that we humans are conscious in these subtle energy fields and that, in unrecognised ways, the fields themselves, acting as what psycologist Carl Jung called the 'collective unconscious', radiate energies into the material world which affect all aspects of our lives.
By taking this new and wider view, Theosophy aims at the proper understanding of what makes us and the cosmos 'tick'.
This cosmic view of life is usually covered in Theosophical studies as under:
Divine Unity
The whole of existence, all of life, is an indivisible unity or wholeness.
Some call it God, others Nature.This Divine Unity forms the basis of the concept of Universal Brotherhood which is the first object of the Theosophical Society.
Evolutionary Purpose
All life is evolving by unfoldment which increasingly reveals this inherent wholeness. It is a return to the Source - the perfection from which all life emanated.
Life as the Play of Consciousness
Divine consciousness is in everything.
It is universal in minerals and plants, but in animals individuality begins to develop. A human being is a self-conscious individual and therefore responsible for directing his/her own actions.
Reincarnation
For humans, evolution is spiritual growth through an endless chain of experiences within a cycle of births, deaths and rebirths.
A Universe ruled by Law
The life process is governed by the impersonal law of cause and effect, called 'karma'.
Symbols of Reality
Because these ideas are difficult to express in words, they have been taught in the great religions by symbol, myth and parable. The Spiritual Path
By feeling love and compassion for all that lives, by practicing self-awareness and by meditation, each of us can tread the path of Self-realisation back to the Source, or God.
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