| In the section with which we are now concerned we shall
consider the practical ways in which illusion, glamor and the power of maya can be
brought to an end in the life of the individual, and eventually in the life of nations and
finally in the world. Always we must begin with the unity of life, the Microcosm; then,
having grasped process and progress in connection with the individual, the idea can then
be extended to the group, the organization, the nation, and to humanity as a whole. Thus
gradually we shall approach the great Idea to which we give the name of God, the
Macrocosm. We shall in this section deal with techniques, and these might be summarized
as follows:
- The Technique of the Presence. By means of this technique, the soul assumes
control of the integrated personality and of its relations, horizontal and vertical. This
technique involves the unfolding of the flower of the intuition, dispelling illusion,
revealing the Angel, indicating the Presence, and opening up to the disciple the world of
ideas and the door of the higher initiations. Through the disciple's grasp and application
of these divine ideas or seed thoughts, he becomes initiate and the third initiation
becomes possible as an immediate goal. The intuition is the applied power of
transfiguration. This technique is related to the little known yoga called Agni Yoga
or the yoga of fire.
- The Technique of Light. By means of this technique, the illumined mind assumes
control over the astral or emotional body and dissipates glamor. When light pours in,
glamor fades out. Illumination dominates and the vision [172] of reality can be seen.
This technique is related to Raja Yoga and its goal is the second initiation; it produces
ability to tread the Path of Discipleship, and enables the man to "live a life,
enlightened by divinity." Illumination is the applied power of transformation.
The
Technique of Indifference. By means of this technique, maya is ended; for the control
of the purified astral vehicle is consciously and technically brought into activity,
producing the freeing of the energies of the etheric body from the control of matter or
force-substance, and bringing men in large numbers on to the Probationary Path. Where
there is "divine indifference" to the call or pull of matter, then inspiration
becomes possible. This technique is related to Karma Yoga in its most practical form
and the use of matter with complete impersonality. The goal of this technique is the first
initiation, which enables man to "live a life, inspired by God." Inspiration is
the applied power of transmission.
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