| Initiation,
Human and Solar |
The theme of "initiation" appears in various relationships throughout
this series of books. An initiation is an expansion of consciousness--a
means of opening the mind and heart to a recognition of what already
exists in reality. It is, therefore, a result of the ability to
transcend those glamours and illusions which veil the truth and
limit the consciousness.
As a living process, initiation is experienced by all forms
of life, large and small, from the universal to the particular.
The process of initiation in our solar system is based on a
pattern which is duplicated and reflected within the whole,
and throughout all its many parts. It could be called the thread
of living energy, accepted and woven into the whole tapestry
by each unit of consciousness in the creation of an ultimate
synthesis. The Path of Initiation, therefore, is the Path of
the Antahkarana.
From this somewhat abstract realisation, the individual must
concretise the process in an effort to perceive and to understand
how the diverse and distinctive forms of life included in a
whole organism perform a vital individual function which, in
relationship with all other parts, contribute to the all-encompassing
plan of evolution. Even this effort to stretch the mind beyond
its normal limits towards comprehension of planetary purpose,
plan and process, evokes a more inclusive awareness of relationships
within the whole, and forces growth. A mind so stretched never
quite returns to its original dimensions.
One of the great values of this book is that it does stretch
the mind towards a new conception of the intense activity involved
at all levels of consciousness on the planet to create conditions
in which evolutionary growth can proceed. The work of the planetary
Hierarchy, and of some of the responsible workers within the
Hierarchy, is outlined in a way which brings everyday human
life into focus as an outer expression of qualified purpose
through the Ashrams of the Masters. The three departments of
Hierarchy form important planetary focal points of cosmic energy
flow, each one imbued with purpose and responsible for an aspect
of the Plan of God. The inter-relationship and interaction of
the many kingdoms and centres of consciousness are revealed
as tending towards the complete integration and alignment of
our Planetary Logos within the systemic whole.
The detailed procedures of initiation rituals revealed here
stimulate the imagination; but esscntially the individual aspirant
treading the Path of Discipleship is thrown back on his own
inner spiritual resources as the only means by which progress
can be made and consciousness expanded. This he does to the
extent that he becomes sensitive and responsive to energy wielded
and projected by Hierarchy.
A disciple is "one who serves"--eventually one who serves
"the One". So the vast, dazzling and glorious process of evolution
and initiation opens out in the depths and in the silence of
the soul, and the disciple learns to relinquish all self-seeking--even
for personal spiritual experience--and becomes absorbed with
others in the service of the Plan.
