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The Difference Between Life and Death #12

August 16, 2024#12 The Difference between Life and Deathmichael1947

The difference between life and death is only one breath.

For such a small difference, we seem to expend an inordinate amount of energy debating about the transition from life to death and the afterlife. For religious traditions this transition is explained as a matter of faith.

However, science and philosophy have made inroads into our understanding of the afterlife. Does out “consciousness” (soul) continue to exist after our physical body dies? Some of our best minds are trying to find a factual basis for what religions accept as a tenet of faith.

Quantum physics seems to be building a bridge between matters of faith and science. In one study, our linear sense of time does not exist. In another, our reality is only an illusion among an infinite number. And in yet another, our consciousness does not dissolve at death, but continues to exist in multiple states all at once and is entangled to interact across vast distances. With these scenarios life and death, as we know it, does not really exist as separate states because we already exist and interact independently and interdependently from these two limited states. We are, in a sense, infinitely greater than what we believe—we are like God—omnipresent!

So why do we expend so much of physical and emotional resources anticipating and fearing a moment of change that is just “one breath” away. Let it go (and let God), you already exist!

What are the perspectives on death, the process, and afterlife concepts of the major religions?

Across these traditions, prayers and rituals serve to provide comfort, guidance, and spiritual support to the dying and their loved ones, helping them navigate the profound transition between life and death with grace and dignity.

Mystical traditions within Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, and Confucianism offer diverse perspectives on the transition between life and death, along with accompanying prayers and rituals.

Christianity:

Christian mystics often emphasize the soul’s journey towards union with God. Prayers and rituals focus on preparing the soul for death, seeking forgiveness, and entrusting the departing soul to God’s mercy. Practices like the Last Rites or Sacrament of the Sick are performed to comfort and prepare the dying.

Death: In Christianity, death is seen as the separation of the soul from the body. It is often viewed as a passage to the afterlife.
Process: The process of dying is often seen as a time of preparation for the afterlife, where believers may reconcile with God and others.
Afterlife: Christianity teaches the concept of heaven, where the righteous will experience eternal joy and communion with God. There is also the concept of hell, where those who have rejected God will experience eternal separation from Him.

Islam:

Sufi mystics in Islam view death as a transition from the material world to the spiritual realm. Prayers and rituals focus on surrendering to the will of Allah, seeking forgiveness, and preparing the soul for judgment. The recitation of Quranic verses and dhikr (remembrance of Allah) are common practices during the dying process.

Death: In Islam, death is considered a transition to the afterlife. It is believed that the soul continues its journey after departing the body.
Process: The dying person is encouraged to recite prayers and affirmations of faith. Family and community play a significant role in providing support during the dying process.
Afterlife: Islam teaches the existence of paradise (Jannah) for those who have lived righteous lives and followed the teachings of Islam. Hell (Jahannam) is believed to be a place of punishment for those who have rejected God or committed grave sins.

Judaism:

In Judaism, mysticism is primarily expressed through the teachings of Kabbalah. While Judaism emphasizes the sanctity of life and the importance of living according to Jewish law (Halakha), mystical traditions offer insights into the nature of the soul and its journey before and after death.

Death: In Judaism, death is viewed as a natural part of life. It is seen as a transition to the afterlife rather than an end.
Process: Jewish tradition emphasizes the importance of honoring the deceased and providing comfort to the bereaved. Rituals such as sitting Shiva are observed to mourn and remember the deceased.
Afterlife: While beliefs about the afterlife vary among different Jewish traditions, there is a belief in Olam Ha-Ba, the World to Come, where the souls of the righteous will experience closeness to God.

Hinduism:

Hindu mystics believe in the concept of reincarnation, where the soul continues its journey through multiple lives. Prayers and rituals focus on helping the departing soul navigate the afterlife and ensuring a favorable rebirth. Practices such as reciting sacred texts, performing puja (worship), and conducting funeral rites like cremation are important.

Death: In Hinduism, death is seen as a natural part of the cycle of reincarnation (samsara). It is believed that the soul continues its journey through multiple lives.
Process: The process of dying is considered important, and family members often play a role in assisting the dying person and performing rituals to ensure a peaceful transition.
Afterlife: Hinduism teaches the concept of moksha, liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. Achieving moksha involves spiritual enlightenment and union with the divine.

Buddhism:

Buddhist mystics often see death as a natural part of the cycle of rebirth (samsara). Prayers and rituals aim to guide the dying through the process of death and rebirth, offering support and creating positive karma for their future existence. Practices like chanting mantras, meditation, and visualizations of peaceful deities are common.

Death: In Buddhism, death is viewed as a transition to another state of existence within the cycle of samsara. It is not seen as an end but rather a continuation.
Process: Buddhism emphasizes the importance of preparing for death through spiritual practice and mindfulness. Practices such as meditation and contemplation are encouraged.
Afterlife: Buddhists believe in the cycle of reincarnation, where individuals are reborn based on their karma. The ultimate goal is to achieve enlightenment (nirvana) and break free from the cycle of suffering.

Taoism:

Taoist mystics see death as a return to the Tao, the ultimate reality. Prayers and rituals aim to harmonize the departing soul with the natural order and facilitate its transition to the next phase of existence. Practices like meditation, offering incense, and reciting Taoist scriptures are common.

Preparation for death: Taoist teachings encourage practitioners to cultivate inner tranquility, simplicity, and spontaneity in preparation for death. Practices like meditation, qigong (energy cultivation), and aligning with the flow of the Tao help individuals achieve a sense of acceptance and peace.
Transition between life and death: In the perspective of Taoism, the significance of death is the process towards life in a different dimension. Life and death are seen as a unity that are inseparable and human beings will experience the from nature back to nature cycle.
Prayers and rituals: Taoist rituals aim to ensure a peaceful transition for the dying and facilitate their journey to the afterlife. Practices may include reciting sacred texts, burning incense, and offering prayers to deities like the Jade Emperor or the Three Pure Ones.

Confucianism:

Confucian mystics emphasize the continuity of familial and social bonds even after death. Prayers and rituals focus on honoring ancestors, maintaining family cohesion, and ensuring the well-being of the departed in the afterlife. Ancestor worship, offering sacrifices, and observing mourning rites are important practices.

Preparation for death: Confucian teachings emphasize the cultivation of moral virtues, familial harmony, and social responsibility. Preparation for death involves living a life of integrity, contributing to the welfare of society, and passing on moral values to future generations.
Transition between life and death: Confucian mystics emphasize the continuity of familial and social bonds across generations, even after death. They stress the importance of honoring ancestors and maintaining filial piety.
Prayers and rituals: Confucian rituals for the dead focus on ancestor worship and expressing gratitude for their guidance and blessings. Practices include offering sacrifices, burning incense, and conducting mourning rites according to tradition.

Time May be an Illusion

https://www.newscientist.com/article/2433294-time-may-be-an-illusion-created-by-quantum-entanglement

We Live in a Simulation

Quantum Entanglement

https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward

Common Beliefs #11

May 28, 2024#11 Common Beliefsmichael1947

Common tenets among major religions often revolve around themes of morality, spirituality, and the purpose of existence. While each religion has its unique beliefs and practices, there are some overarching principles that many share:

Belief in a Higher Power: Most religions believe in the existence of a divine being or beings, such as God, gods, or a universal energy.
Ethical Behavior: Virtues like compassion, honesty, justice, and kindness are emphasized across many religions as fundamental to leading a good life.
Golden Rule: The idea of treating others as you would like to be treated is present in various forms in many religious teachings.
Life After Death: Many religions have beliefs about an afterlife, whether it’s reincarnation, heaven and hell, or other spiritual realms.
Sacred Texts: Most religions have texts that are considered holy or authoritative, which contain teachings, stories, and guidance for followers.
Prayer and Rituals: Practices like prayer, meditation, worship, and rituals are common across religions as ways to connect with the divine and express devotion.
Community and Fellowship: Being part of a religious community provides support, guidance, and a sense of belonging for many followers.
Purpose and Meaning: Religions often offer explanations for the purpose of human existence and the meaning of life, helping followers find a sense of direction and fulfillment.
Morality and Ethics: Many religions provide moral frameworks and ethical guidelines to help individuals navigate moral dilemmas and live virtuously.
Unity and Harmony: While there are differences among religions, many emphasize the importance of unity, peace, and harmony among people of different faiths.

These principles serve as foundations for the beliefs and practices of billions of people around the world, guiding their understanding of the divine, their relationships with others, and their journey through life.

Unity vs. Duality #10

May 28, 2024#10 Unity vs. Dualitymichael1947

I have often wondered why our emotional brains process information by creating dualities: good and evil, love and hate, life and death, fear and courage, faith and doubt, hope and despair, action and inaction.

We do so because it is easier for our emotional and lazy mind to create a dichotomy, rather than understanding our universe as a whole– while holding these aspects as just parts.

In various religious traditions, there is an understanding that behind the apparent dualities of existence lies a deeper unity or interconnectedness. This unity might be expressed in diverse ways: as the oneness of God, the interconnectedness of all living beings, or the underlying unity of the cosmos.

Buddhism:
- “Form is emptiness, emptiness is form. Emptiness is not separate from form; form is not separate from emptiness.” – Heart Sutra

Hinduism:
- “The wise see the same Self in all beings, and all beings in the same Self.” – Bhagavad Gita

Taoism:
- “The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao; The name that can be named is not the eternal name.” – Tao Te Ching

Christianity:
- “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” – John 15:5 (NIV)5

Judaism:
- In the words of the Talmud: “The Holy One, blessed be He, said to Israel: You have made Me one in the world, so will I make you one in the world.”

Sufi Islam:
- “Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right doing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there.” – Rumi

These quotes from various religious texts illustrate the concept of oneness within the context of duality, emphasizing unity, interconnectedness, and the transcendence of apparent distinctions.

Protection #9

May 28, 2024#9 Protectionmichael1947

Before continuing with this blog, please review Creating #2 to make sure you understand how to “run your energy.”

Many students seem to believe they need to protect themselves from energy attacks. As a rule, I would say, “Yes, you do.” However, I would also say you can better protect yourself by frequently changing your energy, your grounding cord, and replenishing the energy in your space.

Many of these same students often create a wall of “white light” to protect themselves. I find this poor substitute for changing your energy, your grounding cord and replenishing your energy. I say this because when you create a “white light” barrier, it will keep out everything–even what you want to experience. So, the intention in your creation of a white light barrier is the key to how this form of protection serves you, or not.

For example, I have seen people pray at a person needing healing. In doing so, they send prayer energy, often white light, to surround the patient. Instead of healing the patient, this creates a barrier for the patient in healing themselves. So, instead of helping, this prayer energy creates problems for the patient. (If you want to send a healing prayer, direct God to perform the healing.)

The energy in your space will always change and will always be influenced by the energy in your surroundings and the energy sent in your direction. This is part of your life experience. You want to experience life, for example, love, joy, loss, and even pain and each has its own energy. So, instead of blocking out everything by creating an impenetrable barrier; check your energy space by frequently changing your energy, changing your grounding cord, and replenishing your energy. In most cases this will protect you and allow you to experience life.

You can also create a symbol at the edge of your personal space to give you a signal about the energy directed at you. You can also use this symbol to deflect the energy. Your symbol will become damaged in due time, so destroy it and create another one with the intention of performing the task you want. This technique is useful because it gives you both a warning of energy directed at you, and it is a tool to deflect and protect you.

Years ago, a shaman asked me to do a reading. His question was, “How can I hide from those hunting me?” Since everyone has a unique energy signature, the intelligence service agents hunting him could, in fact, locate him if they were close enough. The shaman had already created symbols in his neighborhood that would warn him about these types of intruders, but these same symbols could be used by the agents to help find him because they were created with the shaman’s energy.

Again, how you create and use energy symbols, i.e., the intention in your creation, is all important. The shaman could have created symbols to misdirect the hunters to a different location, and still give him a warning of their approach. He could have also created a symbol that he recently moved, or (even) disappeared to confuse the hunters. Your creativity in your use of symbols or energy is endless, just keep it simple.

Another, more esoteric, form of protection is non-resistance. This requires you to not resist or react to the energy directed at you. This, obviously, seems to be difficult because, generally, you are reactive to what is happening around you. This technique requires you to “let go,” –let the energy flow through you and not react to it, while just observing it neutrally.

Here is an example of non-resistance. Years ago, I was entering a busy three lane highway, but a car was speeding rapidly behind cars blocking each lane. As I entered the nearest lane of traffic, the speeding car was forced to swerve across all the lanes in front of me to avoid hitting the cars blocking his forward progress. Instead of panicking, I just neutrally observed the out-of-control speeding car’s direction and timed my own vehicle’s course to travel untouched through the developing accident. My non-resistance to the event allowed me to not participate in the accident. To summarize, use these tools to reconstitute your personal energy space as needed. Use your meditation practice to establish a baseline of well-being, so you have the awareness of changes in your energy. And, understand you do not have to become the effect of the energy of your surroundings.

#8 Seeing, Knowing, and Feeling

March 18, 2024#8 Seeing, Knowing, Feelingmichael1947

Most of you have been taught to discount, ignore, or reject your intuition. It may take a while to regain your intuitive skills, and your personal Practice will help clear out your chakras to regain your abilities.

If you take to heart the previous blogs, you should understand that I want you to See, Know, and Feel what you are doing in Finding the Source, in your personal Practice, and in your Spiritual Healing.

Your personal Practice will lead you to a closer relationship to your God because it will clear out the impediments in your communication with your God and yourself. The techniques I have shared will with you will bring your clarity where there was obstruction, simplicity where there was confusion, and a sense of peace where there was complexity and upheaveal.

As you become clearer, you will see, know, and feel what is TRUE. You will literally See what is TRUE. You will Know what is TRUE. And Feel what is TRUE. You will not have to rely on someone else’s perception of the TRUTH, and instead, you will See, Know, and Feel what is TRUE for you!

The techniques I have shared with you are deceptively very powerful. Many of you will discount them as useless and give up. However, if you do use them over time, you will achieve the clarity, simplicity and peace you are seeking. You will be able to See, Know, and Feel your TRUTH.