Spiritual Tourism is a Real Crowd-Puller to India

Spiritual Tourism is a real crowd-puller to India! India and other culturally rich countries are fast finding out the importance of their spiritual traditions and beliefs in context of tourism; though, India has always been looked upon as the universal truth-finder's path and a land of inherent spirituality. This view has been reinforced by the many overseas tourists to the country who return with memories of individual sanctification and weary souls rejuvenated after having stepped on the many legendary Indian worship sites and pilgrimage centers. How the Celeb-factor has turned around the fate of Spiritual tourism: word of mouth and great publicity! The global gypsy feet owner with a penchant for finding again the reassurance of religious feelings and those on spirituality scouting for inner peace find India the ideal Yog-bhoomi (land of yogic science). Many celebrities have found the ancient wisdom of Indian spirituality personally rejuvenating and have made it world-famous by giving it publicity and international exposure in action, dressing-style, using Indian meditation and other forms of spiritual peace that is predominantly Indian; some of these youth icons include Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Sting and Meg Ryan. Indian counterparts like Shiv Khera, Swami Ramdev, Deepak Chopra and other motivating speakers and preachers of spirituality helped in building a brand image of India as a delight for spiritual tourism seekers with their inspirational discourses, seminars, public appearances and other related promotional and educational efforts for reviving interest in Indian spiritual tourisms. A tryst with spiritual tourism in India proves to be a balm to the global traveler's soul. India's innumerable saints and seers, success at peaceful attainment at enlightenment and strong emphasis on cultural diversity in various religious monuments such as Temples, Mosques, Monasteries etc having all received benevolent patronage has resulted in many places of worship being present for curious visitors from the tourism sector. Now, thanks to proper management and eco-tourism factors, this sector of spiritual tourism has gained more recognition. Manoj Gursahani is the Chairman of India's first ecommerce travel portal- TravelMartIndia. Visit the blog for more travel related issues, travel tips and destinations

Mustika Bezoar Pearls--Notes
"Bezoar" comes from the Persian word, "pá zahar," meaning "antidote against Poison" (pa-cure, zahar-poison). The term is normally applied to stones found in the stomach and digestive system of animals. We use the term in a generic sense for concretions to be found in all organs of animals, plants, and in other aspects of Nature. Indonesian occultists and shamans with this definition in mind, refer to bezoar stones as "mustikas." In other parts of the East they are called by various names, such as "geliga" (Malaysia) and "Mutya" (Philippines). Ancient naturalists gave specific names to the bezoar stones as found in animals. For instance, bezoar stones of eagles were called, "Aetites," or "Aquilenus." A similar term, "Aquilinus" refers to the stones found in the head of fishes. "Crapandia" was the name of the stone found in toads. Swallows produced concretions called "Chelidonius." The stones found in cocks were called "Alectorius," and "Celonite" was the name of the bezoar stone found in tortoises. The occultist and naturalist, "Albertus Magnus," referred to the stone taken from the head of dragons as "Draconites." This latter bezoar stone was considered a great treasure by the kings and emperors of the East. As a rule, bezoar stones or mustikas were, and are highly valued--to the knowledgeable they are regarded in high esteem for their practical qualities in the healing of mind, body, and soul, as well as conferring upon the wearer wonderful psychic and spiritual qualities when used in the correct manner. These pearls can be costly, one source relates that in contemporary times, some of these bezoar stones are offered by Traditional Medicine at a price of US$20,000 per stone! Bezoar stones are mostly calculus concretions to be found in animals and plants, though they are also found (perhaps developed through different processes) in the environment in which these creatures live. Certain animals such as snakes, deer, centipedes, monkeys, wild goats, camels, porcupines, antelopes, etc. produce them in abundance. Some mustika pearls have their origin in so-called mythological creatures such as dragons and sea-serpents. Unusual stones and pearls in our collection were acquired by shamans and occultists possessing expertise in the field of mustikas. Bezoar stones according to some scientific investigators, are composed mostly of calcium phosphate, with some elements of the crystalline mineral, "brushite." Certain bezoar stones contain oxide of iron, silex, alumina, etc. Gemologists may analyze them to be simply natural-mineral or semi-precious stones--but what makes these bezoar stones special and unique is their point of origin, and many owners of these pearls have come to realize that they contain a psychic intelligence or presence. Some psychics verify that bezoar stones have an indwelling elemental spirit called by occultists "fairies," "elves," etc. Royalty were very fond of bezoar stones--not solely because of their exquisiteness or their unusual appearance, but because of the great magickal virtues that they confer to the possessor--virtues such as charisma, an authoritative-bearing, personal magnetism, psychic sensitivity, etc. Queen Elizabeth I, for instance, is historically recorded to have had several bezoar stones as part of her crown jewels. Xá Abás, one of the kings of Persia, was also fond of the stones. According to one legend, one of the Shahs of Iran gave several bezoar stones to Napoleon--something which "the conqueror" greatly honored. He later tried to destroy them in fire, perhaps so that they would not fall into the wrong hands. In the "Garuda Purana," a Hindu scripture, bezoar stones are highly extolled; while in western literature, speaking of the toad-stone, Shakespeare acknowledged their existence in "As You Like It, (Act II, Scene i)": Sweet are the uses of adversity, Which, like the toad, ugly and venomous, Wears yet a precious jewel in his head . . . Bezoar stones are scarce--some are rare! Most have great beauty while others may look unsightly and as worthless baubles--but within them all lies great virtues and magickal power that are probably more potent than ordinary crystals and gemstones--especially for healing work. The contemporary practice of crystal healing is based on the ancient healing-art of applying the bezoar stones to the body to neutralize poison. As the latter were scarce, ordinary crystals and stones were used instead. One is most fortunate to possess these bezoar stones--especially the higher quality ones which are prized greatly by collectors and occult practitioners. They can be considered not only as investments--possession alone actually improves the financial and social condition of their owner--one reason why they were sought for by noblemen and kings. The knowledgeable occultist would know how to wield and take full-advantage of the power that these stones possess. These bezoar stones are actually physical representations of the "Cintamani" or the "wish-fulfilling" jewel of the Buddhists--they help to fulfill one's innermost and cherished dreams. Most of these mustika pearls have their origin in the Indonesian archipelago--from the islands of Kalimantan (Borneo), Java, and Sumatra. It is a fact , though, that even in these islands bezoar stones are scarce. ---------------Mustikas are unusual objects formed in animals and plants. They may assume the shape of regular oyster-pearls and tumbled stones or in unusual shapes and sizes. In their unpolished /untumbled state, they have a rough texture. Unlike oysters that form pearls out of irritation, Nature forms these pearls in the bodies of diverse animals, plants and fruits for some reason unknown as yet to us. They are unusual creations that may correspond to human cancers, cysts, and tumors. Not all animals or plants of the same species form these pearls, but they possibly do occur in almost every living being. Unusual pearls have also been found in the bodies of saints and holy people; this might possibly be an indication that animal and plant pearls are the manifestation of an organism's highest energy crystallized and formed out of conscious or subconscious aspiration to a higher evolutionary level or state. Some mustikas are fossilized parts of an animal or a plant, such as the eyes of a creature. After thousands or millions of years these eyes through a natural process have crystallized, hardened and acquired occult powers. The formation of a mustika pearl or a fossilized body-part are directed by Nature's invisible forces and intelligences. Normally these intelligences are elemental spirits that guide the process of the creation of a mustika pearl, and they subsequently make these pearls or fossils their home. Those carrying these pearls are served by the indwelling elementals in various ways; they help to strengthen their keepers aura and nervous system; they confer positive energies; they empower the brain centers, etc. The natural energies of these pearls attracts luck, neutralizes and wards-off negative forces. They have a natural tonic effect upon the physical system. They are more powerful than ordinary gemstones and crystals when applied for certain purposes. Added onto ritualistic items such as wands, they would truly empower an occult practitioner's magickal operations. Western occultists have yet to investigate and discover the power of these mustika pearls that heretofore have only been mentioned in myths and fairy tales--as secrets known only to the ancients. Mustikas are widely known in South-East Asia, India, and other countries of the East. Malays, for instance, call Mustikas "Geliga"; Phlipinos call them "Mutya." Occidental naturalists of the past referred to them as "bezoar stones." The powerful stones told in tales and legends are actually mustikas. The Sanskrit text, "Sri Garuda-Puranam," speaks in detail of these pearls. In essence it declares a man acquires great fortune and blessings by possessing a mustika. These magickal pearls are one-of-a-kind, unique, rare, and powerful. It is said that only fortunate people are able to acquire and keep them. Where Are They Mostly Found and Acquired? The mustikas--pearls and fossils accessible to us from our sources--have been acquired mostly in the Indonesian archipelago. They have been discovered in caves, jungles, sacred places, historical sites and in the remains of animals and plants. Some of them were magickally retrieved from the etheric planes by occultists who specializes in this unusual feat. The power within these pearls are sometimes known by the psychic struggle the occultist had to go through with the spirit guardians in order to acquire them. Quite a number of these pearls were gifts to our sources by tribal shamans and chieftains. How the existence and virtues of the pearls are discovered could sometimes occur quite by accident. For instance, tribal hunters may find an animal exhibiting a degree of invulnerability to their weapons; after having finally killed the animal with the help of a shaman, they would discover that the creature possessed strange pearls lodged or embedded in their head or body. Subsequent investigation would reveal that it was these pearls that gave the animal its invulnerability power. Animals are not hunted or killed for mustikas/pearls, though, as shamans know that they can hardly be found in that manner--the discovery of a pearl is often incidental to the killing of a creature for food or because they are a menace to villagers. Pearls are mostly found in the remains, dens, and nests of the creatures. Centipede are one of the many creatures that form pearls. These pearls are formed by the mucous of the giant centipede, which it plays about with its mandibles and then places it on top of its head where it crystallizes and in time falls off to the ground. Some centipede pearls are formed in the stomach. Genuine centipede mustika pearls are prized by gamblers for the luck that it bestows upon its master. Generally speaking, the virtues of pearls are known by the observation of their effects in one's daily life as they are carried, worn or attuned to by certain methods such as psychic contact with the indwelling elemental spirit. Some of the pearls have quite unusual physical effects, such as the costly and rare Mustika Merah Delima that tinges water where it is immersed in with a red coloring--or so the story goes. How to Determine the Real from the Fake There are various ways for determining whether a mustika is real or a fake. Some of the various points to be considered are the following: The Energy PresentWhen a pearl is held between the thumb and forefinger, as the breath is held, energy would be felt as issuing forth from it. The longer it is held the stronger will the energy be palpable. The energy would run through one's arm and finally reach the heart or to one of the other chakras within the body depending upon its quality. Fakes do not give such sensations. The Presence of an Elemental SpiritEach and every one of the mustika pearls have an indwelling elemental spirit--fakes do not have them unless attached by a knowledgeble occultist. The presence of the spirit may be felt and communicated with by a psychic. The Medicinal Properties.Without exception, all mustikas have vibrational healing virtues which may be tapped into. Again, fakes do not possess such power. The Difference Between Mustikas and Ordinary Consecrated Talismans There are several principles that differentiates mustika pearls from talismans. Among them : 1) Mustikas are empowered by Nature's forces and intelligences--unlike talismans which are consecrated by human operators. 2) The power and elemental spirit within a mustika pearl are not extinguishable or transferable to other objects, unlike the power within talismans which may be magickally neutralized or transferred to other items. 3) No observances or prayers are required for mustika owners in order to maintain its power or have them function perfectly--unlike talismans which do. Copyright © 2006 Luxamore Leonard Lee aka Luxamore Metaphysical teacher, counseler, healer and merchant of occult/magickal items of Indonesia. Magickal Items from Indonesia: talismans, mustika pearls, kerises, etc. Magickal Bezoar Mustika Pearls from Indonesia.

The Roswell UFO Crash: A New Lead and a New Direction
It’s been nearly sixty years since the crash of an alleged Alien Spacecraft near Roswell, NM. Despite a multitude of credible civilian and military witnesses who claim the object and its occupants were from another world, we still lack absolute proof. As a result, researchers trying to solve this puzzle constantly hope for two things: Actual physical evidence and reliable witnesses. Because the Roswell Crash took place in 1947, the likelihood of turning up any new first hand witnesses to the crash, military investigation or cover-up fades with each year that passes. The same may be said of physical evidence. Even if somebody found a shoe box full of metal or other strange material from the crash stashed in their attic, they might not even know what it was. That leaves the possibility of second or third hand witnesses. While it’s easy to dismiss witnesses who didn’t actually experience the crash or aftermath, they can often provide serious researchers with some tidbit of information that can lead to more later. Recently, I was contacted by a man living in California who I’ll call Al. After listening to the late Colonel Philip Corso (author of ‘The Day after Roswell’) speak about events surrounding the Roswell UFO Crash on a late night radio show, Al began to give some thought to something that had occurred earlier in his life. Al moved to San Francisco, California, in 1964. Sometime in the winter of 1964-65, he was set up on a blind date with ‘a good-looking young blond woman.’ While he could not recall her name or where they went on the date, he did remember an unusual conversation they had at the end of the evening. Although the two didn’t hit it off romantically, they did seem to enjoy talking with one another. The topics included philosophy, astronomy and science fiction. All very popular themes of the day. At some point the young woman asked Al if he believed in the existence of other life forms or Alien life in the Universe. Al said he did and gave a few reasons why, which included the size of the Universe and the common scientific probabilities of the day. The young woman almost immediately gave affirmation to Al by saying something like, “Yea, you’re right,” and followed up with a most amazing story. Al’s date began her narrative by explaining that she was the daughter of an Air Force Chaplain. The family lived in Roswell and her father was serving on the Base known as Roswell Army Air Field in 1947 (later named Walker Air Force Base in 1949). Although he cannot recall the actual calendar date or day of the week, the young woman told him that sometime during dinner two men came to the door to get her dad. She recalled hearing them tell him that his services were needed. The incident caused such a stir in the household that everyone stayed up late until he returned. Seeing that everyone was still awake, the Chaplain told his family that he was called to give religious comfort to some sort of Alien Life Forms near what seemed to be an Alien Spacecraft. At least two of four creatures were still alive when he got there. He described them as looking a bit like adolescent boys, but obviously not human. No one knew what the creatures were or precisely how to care for them. As a result, all of the beings eventually perished. That was the crux of the story. Al would have been seven and the young woman would have been around five years of age at the time of the Roswell UFO Crash. Despite her young age, one can assume that this event left a huge impression on her and was probably discussed a number of times over the years by one or more family members. Either way, she seemed to recall enough of the story to share it with her date. As an experienced paranormal investigator, I know that you can second guess almost any story into oblivion. This is the way of most skeptics. They merely tinker with stories, evidence or witnesses until the believable becomes unbelievable. That is not what I will do here. Instead, I will consider the possibilities. Although there are many missing pieces from this story, it has one shining asset. Al provides a fascinating new direction for Roswell UFO Crash researchers. I never thought to include a Chaplain in the mix of characters who were a part of the military response to the Roswell Crash. It’s easy to forget that people tended to be much more religious in those days. It’s also worthwhile to remember that no one expected an alien spacecraft to fall out of the sky and into a world that wasn’t ready for such an event. While it might seem hard to imagine that a Chaplain would be considered important enough to be summoned in the manner he was for such an event, it gets easier if you consider the military mindset. When it comes to any branch of the armed services, it was and still is all about preparedness. We have to assume that some sort of short list of first responders for emergencies was always available to Officers on duty. Despite the unusual nature of the vehicle and occupants which crashed near Roswell, the initial reaction of the military reveals an almost textbook response to what might otherwise have been considered to be something like a plane crash. The local funeral home was contacted for coffins and/or services, a military investigator and recovery crew was sent out to do their job and the press was duly notified. Given the religious beliefs and values of that time, it would not be unexpected to find a Military Chaplain being made available to those on the scene of a disaster. Under normal circumstances, it probably wouldn’t be that difficult to track down the names of Military Chaplains serving at the Roswell Army Air Field in 1947. However, the task becomes very complicated because the base was home to military aircraft given the mission of carrying Atomic Bombs and personnel were involved in the retrieval and cover-up of a crashed Alien Spacecraft. Anyone who has ever visited Roswell or tried to follow the paper trail back to 1947 knows that peripheral information is everywhere, but tracing down specific information is difficult and the results are not always reliable. Despite the hardships of verifying a story like this one, the new direction provided opens up a whole new world of possibilities. After all, Chaplains are not just military personnel, but have ties to mainline faiths. It’s possible that the Chaplain involved shared some information with other Chaplains or religious leaders, in addition to his immediate family, before the lid was clamped down or he was ordered to keep quiet. Al’s blind date of forty years ago may prove to be another important piece in the Roswell puzzle. More articles about UFOs and the Paranormal are available at http://www.ufoguy.comAuthor: Bill Knell Word Count: 1180 Author's Email: billknell@cox.net Author's Website: http://www.billknell.com Terms To Use Article: Permission is granted to use this article for free online or in print. Please add a link to or print my website address: http://www.billknell.com A native New Yorker now living in Arizona, Bill Knell is a forty-something guy with a wealth of knowledge and experience. A popular Speaker, Bill Knell presents seminars on a number of topics that entertain, train and teach.

Dead Is Just a Word
Is there life after death and, if so, how can we be sure? The incredibly gripping experiences and testimonials within the pages of this book will provide the answers to your unspoken questions; answers that will enlighten you and bring comfort to your very soul. If you believe the cherished friends and family members that you’ve lost to death over the years are really gone, you may find yourself considering the strong probability that they are still here in spirit form and remain ever present in your life. Excerpts from the book: My uncle was seriously injured and fell in and out of consciousness for at least six months as he lay in the hospital. My mother decided that we had to make the out of state trip to see him. She wanted to see her brother at least one last time if his death was imminent….. ….Although his words came very slowly and laboriously, he whispered to her “Al, I saw mom and she was holding me, comforting me and it was so loving and wonderful.” My grandmother had passed away close to forty years prior and my mother was astounded when this came out of my uncle’s mouth. Still, something in his eyes told her it was true. As the paramedics and doctors worked frantically to get his heart beating again, the experience Peter was having was little short of amazing, especially to him. He suddenly found himself in a laying position with his head on the lap of his loving grandmother; she stroked his hair and reassured him that somehow all was well and very peaceful. Several years prior, this very grandmother had passed away after a long, agonizing bout with cancer. A close friend, Frank, had a major heart attack in upstate New York while on vacation with his family. For four and a half minutes his heart had stopped beating…… …….Months after his recovery, I ran into him in a supermarket and stopped to talk with him. I asked him if he had had any experiences while his heart was stopped and they were trying to resuscitate him. He went on to explain that during the four and a half minutes that the doctors tried to resuscitate him, he found himself, his spirit self, up in the corner of the emergency room looking down on what was taking place below…… …..he saw both his wife and son standing in the opposite corner of the emergency looking extremely upset and frightened. Although he felt very saddened by the turmoil and upset that he had obviously brought his wife and son, he suffered a horrible inner conflict because there was a big part of him that really didn’t want to be brought back. The feelings of peace and love he felt were so all-encompassing that he wanted to stay exactly where he was. Perhaps these experiences serve to remind us that we’re only here on earth for a short time and that we should treasure every moment, love unconditionally and embrace our ultimate spiritual return home.Marie Bradley has spent almost 20 years researching the phenomena associated with life after death and near death experiences. In 1986, she lost her dearly beloved mother to Alzheimer's disease. Shortly after her mother's death, Marie began to observe blatant signs that her mother was dead and gone physically but still very much alive and present spiritually. Fourteen years later, she lost her father to cancer and was once again to witness this amazing phenomena; audible and physical signs that the spirit of her father was still present. As the years passed, Marie became more sensitive to and more intrigued by the ever present signs of life after death. She decided to further research these incredible phenomena. Her research included the interviewing of many people who had gone through similar experiences as well as people who had had near death experiences and has found it be a fascinating if not enlightening journey. http://www.outskirtspress.com/webpage.php?isbn=1598005685

Witchcraft Supplies You'll Need
Crystals/StonesEach rock (whether it is a crystal or not) has a higher or lower density vibration. This makes certain rocks (crystals & stones) powerful collectors of Magick energy.Whenever you are in a situation where you are about to buy stones or crystals, it is important to physically touch different ones before buying them. It helps to close your eyes and really “feel” the stone �" concentrate on how the stone resonates with you, and select the ones that are special.Here I list the most commonly used stones that will help you with your Magick work (along with their Magick properties):Amber �" changes negative energy into positive energy; protectionAmethyst �" courage, psychic energies, dreams, healing addictions (especially alcohol), peace, happiness, love; opens crown chakraApache’s Tear �" protection, luckAventurine �" money, luck, mental agility, visual acuity, peace, healing; opens heart chakraAzurite �" psychic energy, dreams, divination (the art of looking into the future), healing, concentration, transformationBloodstone �" courage, strength, victory, wealth, self-confidence, success in business and legal affairs; stops bleeding; helps regulate the first four chakrasCarnelian �" courage, sexual energy, verbal skill, peace; alleviates jealousy, apathy, fear, and rageChrysocolla �" wisdom, peace, love, communication, vitalityCitrine �" psychic powers, protection, creativity, sexual energy; deflects nightmaresClear quartz �" intensifies energy (both positive and negative)Coral �" protection from evil; resolves conflictsDiamond �" courage strength, healing, protection, spirituality, mental and sexual abilitiesDolomite �" relieves sorrowEmerald �" prosperity, mental and psychic abilities, dreams, meditation, visual acuity, love, peace, balance; opens the heart chakraFluorite �" balances and stabilizes relationshipsGarnet �" strength, physical energy, healing, protection, purification, compassion; opens the root and crown chakrasGeode �" fertility, childbirth, meditation, freedom of spirit, psychic abilities, dreams, astral travelHematite �" grounding, calming, healing, divination, intuition, physical strength; aids restful sleepHerkimer Diamond �" enhances psychic abilities and clairvoyanceJade- healing, protection, wisdom, prosperity, love, long life, fertility, courage, peaceJasper- healing, protection, health, beauty, energyJet- protection, hex breaking; dispels fearLapis Lazuli �" courage, joy, love, fidelity, psychic abilities, protection, healing, beauty, prosperityLepidolite �" peace, spirituality, psychic, strength, luck, protection, psychic abilities, emotional balance; deflects nightmaresLodestone �" cleanses crystals and aligns their energies, balances the chakras, removes obstaclesMalachite �" power, energy, protection, love, peace, success in business, vision quests, gardeningMarble �" protection, dream recall, meditationMeteorite �" enhances work with spiritual and celestial beingsMoonstone �" grounding, love, divination, sleep, gardening, protection, youth, harmony, peace, magick, travelObsidian �" grounding, divination, protection; deflects negativityOnyx �" emotional balance, self-control (especially in sexual matters), binding, protection (especially against someone else’s magick), strengthOpal �" beauty, prosperity, luck, power, psychic abilities, visual acuity, emotional balancePearl �" manifests truth, peace, and serenityPeridot �" protection, prosperity, sleep, health, emotional balance, intuitionRose Quartz �" love, peace, happiness, healing (especially of the emotions)Ruby �" prosperity, power, courage, integrity, joy; deflects nightmaresSapphire �" psychic abilities, inspiration, love, meditation, peace, healing, power, prosperity, protectionSmokey Quartz �" healing, directing and absorbing energy, altered states; dissolves negative energySodalite �" healing, meditation, wisdom, calm, grounding, stress reducerSunstone �" protection, energy, health, passion, sexualityTiger’s Eye �" courage, prosperity, protection, energy, luck, judgment and common sense, honesty, divination; eases depressionTourmaline �" love, friendship, prosperity, business, peace, sleep, energy, courage, protection, inspiration; opens the third eye center, or the sixth chakraTurquoise �" courage, protection, prosperity, luck, friendship, healing, communication, happiness, emotional balance, astral travel; strengthens all the chakrasZircon �" protection (especially from theft), beauty, love, peace, sexual energy, healing, mental alertness, emotional balanceHerbsHerbs also bring unique Magick energies to the table when doing spell work. Not only do we Witches use them for spells, but herbs are also becoming more popular to treat health ailments throughout the world.Before ever ingesting herbs (for any reason), it is important to consult with a doctor or herbologist who can make sure that nothing you drink or eat will be harmful.In your Magick you will usually ground herbs into fine powders, or stuff poppets with herbs that will release the energies you are looking for to bring about the best spell results.Here is a listing of the herbs with their Magick properties:Acacia �" Protection, psychic powersAllspice �" Money, luck, healingAlmond �" Money, prosperity, wisdomAmber �" For stability, self-confidence, and peaceAmbergris �" To awaken love and emotionAngelica Root �" Used for protection and exorcism and to cause visionsAnise �" Protection, purification, youthApple Blossom �" For love and friendshipBalm of Gilead �" Attract new love, mend broken heart, protection, healingBayberry �" Money, good luck, peace, harmony, well-beingBenzoin �" Purification, prosperityBergamot �" Money, hex-breakingBlessed Thistle �" For purification and protection from evil, used in hex-breaking spellsBuckeye �" Carry to attract money and to ward off aches and painsCamphor �" To awaken past life memories, stimulates psychic awarenessCarnation �" Protection, strength, healing, vitalityCatnip �" Creates a psychic bond with cats, attracts good spirits, love and luckCedar �" Healing, courage, purification, protection, money, hex-breakingChamomile �" For sleep and meditation, and to attract moneyCherry �" Divination, loveCinnamon �" Lust, love, success, power, psychic awareness, healing, protectionClove �" Money, love, lust, exorcism, protectionClover �" Protection, money, love, fidelity, success, exorcismColtsfoot �" Draws peace and tranquility, promotes visions, also used in spells involving animalsComfrey �" For safety during travel and to draw moneyCyclemen �" To draw love and truthCypress �" For comfort and solace, to ease feelings of lossDamiana �" Used for lust and loveDragon's Blood �" Power amplifier, protection, love, banishing, potencyEucalyptus �" Healing, protectionFive Finger Grass (cinquefoil) �" Protection, prophetic dreams, wisdom, and success in court casesFrankincense �" Spirituality, protection, exorcism, consecrationGalangal �" For courage, strength, and for avoiding legal problemsGardenia �" Love, peace, healing, spiritualityGeranium �" For fertility, health and loveGinger �" Success, power, money, loveGinseng �" For attracting love, luck and healthGota Kola �" MeditationHeliotrope �" To attract money and gain powerHemlock �" To induce astral projection, to purify magickal knives or swordsHibiscus �" For love, lust, divinationHoneysuckle �" Money drawing, psychic awareness, memory, healing, power, honestyHops �" Healing, sleepHyacinth �" For love and protectionHyssop �" Purification, protectionJasmine �" Love, prophetic dreams, money, sleep, love, healing, health, meditationJohn the Conqueror �" Money, love, happiness, hex breaking, protectionJuniper Berries �" Protection, health, increases psychic powersLavender �" Chastity, love, peace, happiness, clairvoyance, longevity, sleep, protectionLemon �" Longevity, purification, love, friendshipLemongrass �" For lust, psychic powers and to repel snakesLilac �" Protection, banishingLily of the Valley �" For peace, harmony and loveLotus �" Spirituality, love, protectionMagnolia �" Peace, nature spells, hair growthMandrake �" For protection, fertility, money and loveMarigold �" Protection, prophetic dreams, legal matters, psychic powersMistletoe �" Protection, love, fertility, health, exorcismMugwort �" Strength, psychic powers, healing, astral projectionMusk �" Courage, fertility, lustMyrrh �" Spirituality, healing, protection, exorcism, transformation, consecrationNarcissus �" For peace and harmonyNutmeg �" Fidelity, luck, money, healthOrange �" Divination, love, luck, moneyOrange Blossom �" For beauty, loveOrris �" For lovePassion Flower �" Peace, sleep, friendshipPatchouli �" Fertility, lust, money, protection, divinationPennyroyal �" For strength, protection, peacePeppermint �" Love, psychic awareness, lust, mental stimulant, energyPine �" Healing, protection, exorcism, fertility, moneyPlumeria �" For lovePrimrose �" For protection and loveRose �" Love, beauty, psychic powers, divination, healing, luck, protectionRose Geranium �" Protection, fertility, love, healthRosemary �" Mental powers, youth, protection, love, lust, purification, sleep, exorcismRue �" Healing, mental powers, protection, loveSage �" Wisdom, animal guides, wishes, immortalitySandalwood �" Spirituality, protection, wishes, healing, exorcismSassafras �" Health and moneySpearmint �" Healing, love, mental powersSpikenard �" For good luck, fidelity, and healthStrawberry �" Love, luck and beautySweet Pea �" For friendship, courage and strengthTangerine �" Psychic powers, mental powersTea Tree �" Healing, anti-fungalTonka Beans �" Love, money, courage, wishesVanilla �" Magickal powers, mental powers, love, lust, rejuvenationVervain �" Love, protection, purification, peace, money, youth, healingVetivert �" Hex breaking, peace, luck, love, protection, exorcismViolet �" Animal guide work, wishes, peace, love, luck, lust, protectionWitches Grass �" Happiness, lust, love, exorcismWormwood �" Psychic powers, calling spirits, protection, loveYarrow Flowers �" Courage, love, psychic powers, exorcismYerba Santa �" Beauty, healing, psychic powers, protectionYlang Ylang �" Love, lust, peace Rose has been practicing different forms of Witchcraft for over 27 years. For more information on witchcraft supply visit her site The Ask Rose Ariadne Witchcraft Site"

Occult Fiction: Novels for Your Private Collection, Part 1
For years I’ve heard complaints about a lack of Occult fiction portraying Witches realistically in a contemporary setting. And it’s true. As a Wiccan and novelist writing Occult fiction, I’m just as much a fan of the genre as any reader. However, I have found if you search carefully, there are dazzling gems awaiting discovery, novels that should be a part of your contemporary Occult fiction collection.To find these novels I have narrowed my search criteria to dark urban fantasy novels set in contemporary times or in the near future. At least half the rituals, magick, or sorcery used by the main character must be based on real magickal principles. The main character must be human, and the plot not overshadowed by trendy leagues of vampires.Having set those guidelines, I want to present my first recommendation for must-read Occult fiction. All I can say is if you’ve never read Lilith Saintcrow’s “Dante Valentine” series you are in for a treat!Saintcrow is best known for her paranormal romance novels, the “Watcher” series, featuring elemental Witches and their handsome guardians. However, Dante Valentine was created from an entirely different cut of cloth.There are five novels in the series. The first two, “Working for the Devil” and “Dead Man Rising” have already been published. The last three novels are scheduled for publication in 2007 and 2008.Dante Valentine is a Necromance, who works for lawyers, raising the spirits of the dead when wills come into question. She also takes a few bounty hunting jobs on the side to help pay her mortgage. “Danny” is a wise-cracking whirlwind of energy with a haunting past that won’t quit. Devoted to the Egyptian god Anubis, she entertains Pagan readers with plenty of rituals, spells, and magick.The series takes place in the near future, as the plot races from one high to the next at lightning speed. This is contemporary Occult fiction at its finest, the kind of book you can’t put down until you finish it. And one you’ll still be thinking about months later.Saintcrow is a master at creating memorable characters and deftly plotted novels. If you’ve been searching for awesome Occult fiction to add to your personal collection, this should be the first series on your list. You won’t be disappointed! Laura Stamps is an award-winning novelist, as well as a Wiccan and feral cat rescuer. The recipient of a Pulitzer Prize nomination and seven Pushcart Award nominations, she is the author of a popular series of Occult Novels for Women found at www.KittyfeatherPress.blogspot.com

Metaphysical Reflections
Nature holds bountiful undiscovered-as-yet secrets for humanity. Normally, we seek to unveil them through scientific means--through our laboratory equipment, processes and methodologies; however, the conventional, material methods of probing into Nature's treasure storehouse may only take us to a certain point beyond which it is difficult for three-dimensional instruments to record, and the physical senses and mind to follow and apprehend. And yet, humanity unconsciously feel that it is possible to wrest from benign Nature her many hidden arcana or esoteric laws and principles. Could it be that we are investigating the more subtle aspects of Nature through the wrong approach, through the wrong channels and processes? Could it be that we are being misled by our senses in regards to our perception and conception of time, space, and matter and that paradigm shifts from the old Corpernican, Newtonian and Einsteinian models are required in order to break through scientific humps? There are many brave scientists who are working out this problem to the ridicule of their more orthodox colleagues.In order for Man and the Universe to be understood as well as all the phenomena that occurs therein, it is necessary to consider the so-called "abstract" and "occult" principles that was once in the domain of Religion and Philosophy--and this should be conducted in a scientific, systematic, rational and metaphysical manner. If Science is to discover the Ultimate Truth, it must not neglect its investigations into the subtle realms. By claiming that these realms or soul-phenomena do not exist for they cannot be perceived by the objective senses or monitored by instruments is prejudicial and scientifically irrational, as there are many things such as electromagnetic energies, certain gases, cosmic rays, etc. that we are unable to directly perceive and was once undetectable by instruments. By restricting its probing and search for the Ultimate First Cause solely on the physical plane Science does itself an injustice, for life here and physical phenomena are simply a fragment of a whole. Our senses only perceive a limited range of phenomena in the energy-spectrum. Scientific devices may only extend our range of perception a little further and aid us to record a little bit more. What is beyond our perception vibrates in astronomical frequencies. What we are unable to detect physically may well exist beyond the range of our senses. The investigation of Nature's more subtle aspects is not beyond the line of reason or scientific analyses if several principles are taken into consideration :1) The higher realities must be investigated through the higher faculties of the soul, through a higher consciousness or through an altered state of awareness.2) That which is not perceived through the objective senses does not imply its non-existence, even to a psychic's failure of perception, for they may simply be "out-of-range."3) That the diversity and inconsistency of recorded paranormal phenomena do not indicate its non-validity as it may well be that the nature of the higher worlds reflect the influential instability or fluctuations of the investigator's mind, thoughts, and feelings.4) That the mind moulds reality, whether physical or non-physical out of the energies of its internal and ambient environment.5) That Cosmic or natural laws with possible mathematical formulation apply in the subtle realms as they apply here in the physical.6) That the linear time-space continuum may not apply in the higher dimensions as they do here.7) That the mind is not the sole faculty of knowing.8) That some metaphysical phenomena goes way beyond our earthly concepts and the apprehension of the mind and is difficult to explain using conventional language.9) That metaphysical phenomena are repeatable even in controlled laboratory conditions should all the natural laws factors, and variables involved in the phenomena's manifestation be taken into account.Science is aware that the physical world as we perceive it is an illusion and yet our senses delude us by informing us that it is real with the "power to affect us in some way." If this is considered to be a criterion of "reality" then the "imaginary" worlds too are real for they likewise affect us in some manner, as psychologists would undoubtedly concur. Of metaphysical interest, one vital question emerges: is the existence of these other so-called imaginary worlds, these other "realities," part of the "Gupta Vidya," or the secret teachings that spiritual preceptors sought to convey to humanity?Gautama Buddha once referred to the amount of teachings that he revealed to the world by comparing them with the few leaves of a tree that he had clasped in his hand. The bountiful leaves that he pointed out, still clinging to the boughs of the tree constituted that which was yet undisclosed to humanity. Several centuries later, almost at the end of his exoteric ministry, the Master Jesus said to his disciples that he had further teachings to convey to them but they were unprepared as yet for their reception. Why? What were these advanced precepts? These secret doctrines, if ever existed, are unrecorded in the New Testament. They would have been verbal--oral teachings for the selected few. Are these oral teachings still in existence or are they "lost"? Are they perhaps preserved in the consciousness of the Magi, the wise men of every ancient culture? Are they carefully guarded in certain temples and underground vaults hidden from prying eyes? Are they so spiritually scientific in nature that men unprepared with the proper moral, intellectual, and rational basis were not able to fully grasp their principles and significance? It takes a great mind to know another; it also takes a great mind to understand the great principles and laws of Nature. In the early days of recorded history only the few had attained to the desired level of understanding and were prepared to develop the greatness necessary to grasp Nature's hidden laws and principles.How does one attain greatness, how does one become great enough to apprehend the "higher" teachings that the spiritually enlightened have to offer? We have always been advised by spiritual teachers to walk with God; to tread the strait and narrow way or the ancient path; challenged to go where angels dread; or to go where no man (mortal) has gone before, and yet, most of us feel not up to the task. The one thing that prevents us from doing so is fear--fear that has been instilled in us by superstition, religious dogma, propaganda, and other false teachings.What is the nature of these occult principles and doctrines that the spiritual teachers throughout the ages wished to convey to humanity but had to withhold for the lack of "preparation" on the part of man? Were these secret teachings eventually given out to select persons who subsequently became the spiritual pioneers and leaders, reformers, and prophets of future generations?Life is a mystery, however, the more we partake of the higher spiritual consciousness the more we come to understand this "mystery of mysteries." This is the unveiling of the secrets of the Egyptian goddess Isis who declared truthfully that no mortal shall ever unveil her. Isis, as the personification of Nature, was right: no man has ever or will ever unveil her to behold her naked beauty. Only when the mortal mind--which is representative of man--is displaced in favor of the immortal God-mind will we ever come to be aware and understand All That Is, all that Isis, the Divine Mother represents. Is this concept strange? The Bible states that no man shall see God and live. Indeed, the spiritual Masters tell us that no man shall see God and live--as men. The perception of God entails embodying all that God is, all of His virtues, attributes, and consciousness. To truly understand a thing we must become that thing. This is the Law of Empathy or Identification. This is what separates saints and prophets from the Cosmic gods and men-made-perfect. Saints may lead a pure and holy life; but by separating themselves from their fellow men by secluding themselves and maintaining a consciousness of duality, they do not advance to a higher spiritual status. In order for their consciousness to be raised to a higher evolutionary level, it is necessary for them to transcend all dualistic opposites, illusions and errors in mortal thinking. This we personally call Divine thinking. How shall this transition from manhood to godhood be accomplished? Spiritual teachers have always been present on Earth to direct and help uplift humanity to a higher level of consciousness and awareness. Teachers but point the way. It is up to the aspirant or disciple to tread the Path that leads to enlightenment and illumination.In every religion there is an oral tradition--secret doctrines given out to a few. These were called "esoteric teachings." The few were privileged to receive these wisdom teachings because their mental, spiritual capacity and level, and their morality far exceeded those of the average person and were spiritualized enough to comprehend and be receptive to abstract verities. The privileged few, having duly prepared themselves spiritually, had eliminated many of the egoistic tendencies that would have caused them to misuse and abuse sacred knowledge. These secret teachings empowers one. They give tremendous powers over the forces of Nature; this was the reason for the careful guardianship by the forces of Light over them. This is sometimes portrayed in classical myths as dragons protecting gemstones or other treasures in their lair. In esoteric teachings dragons often represent wise, enlightened men. In Hindu tradition, these men were the Nagas who lived in their caves of meditation and rock temples. They were called dragons or serpents for their innate energy coiled at the base of their spine, otherwise known as kundalini, was permanently raised and wed to its higher counterpart in the crown chakra. This counterpart is the dove, the Holy Ghost. The serpent is Shakti while the dove is Shiva. About two thousand years ago the Master Jesus admonished us to be as wise as the serpent and harmless as the dove. Esoterically, he was telling us to stimulate kundalini to ascend and the dove of love, purity and the Christ-Consciousness to descend. When kundalini meets her mate she must crown him with the jewel that she ought to carry with her. Those who are familiar with esoteric and occult concepts will understand what all of the above signifies. In ancient Egypt the pharaohs wore head-dresses or crowns with the serpent, the sacred "Uraeus" protruding from the area of the Ajna chakra, the etheric energy-center located between the eyebrows. In those days it was a prerequisite for candidates to ruler-ship to be spiritually enlightened before ascending the throne; the candidates had to undergo spiritual training that would prepare them for their exalted task; however, this practice was later neglected and it subsequently caused the degeneration and corruption not only of the Egyptian rulers but the priesthood as well.In bygone days, sacred knowledge concerning Man, Nature, the Universe and God were taught in those institutions called the Mystery Schools. In these temples of knowledge and wisdom the candidates were initiated into the Ancient Wisdom that existed long before the foundation of this world. Before such occult teachings were taught the candidates had to undergo certain tests and trials to prove their worthiness. When these tests were successfully completed and certain trials overcome the candidates were initiated into the sacred Mysteries of Life. They were taught how to acquire the gnosis, or sacred knowledge through personal soul-experience. The control of the forces within man was also taught to the novices by the Kheri-Hebs, the hierophants, or Masters. These accomplished beings instructed the novices how the subtle body of man may be exteriorized to experience the higher dimensions. Many methods were used to accomplish this by the Wise Ones such as the careful use of certain hallucinogens, hypnosis, acoustics, concentration, mesmerism, meditation, etc. The King's chamber of the Great Pyramid was particularly used as a portal of initiation into higher worlds. The immortality of man and reincarnation were basic principles taught in the sacred teachings of the Mystery Schools.In the early days of our unrecorded history, the creator gods, the Elohim, the Lords of Mind and the Lords of Flame, walked with man in everyday life and nurtured the divine spark within him. The Spiritual Elders gave teachings to their disciples and they eventually became the rulers of civilizations and the leaders of humanity. These enlightened rulers were the God-kings and Priest-kings still talked about by students of occultism. They inaugurated our fabled Golden Ages. What we would like to mention here in passing is that some of these spiritual beings are back in physical incarnation in our present era spreading metaphysical teachings and a higher spiritual pragmatic code of life.The higher laws and operations of Nature may be investigated through the utilization of one's soul-faculties. These inner senses of the soul must first be awakened and unfolded to a certain degree of efficiency before they may be safely applied. Metaphysics teaches man the way to personal development, to spiritual advancement, and occult unfoldment. Metaphysics as a whole, is the modern repository of the ancient and ageless secret teachings. Its more sacred doctrines belong in the field of esotericism. Copyright © 2006 Luxamore Leonard Lee aka Luxamore Metaphysical teacher, counseler, healer and merchant of occult/magickal items of Indonesia. Magickal Items from Indonesia: talismans, mustika pearls, kerises, etc. Magickal Bezoar Mustika Pearls from Indonesia.

Approaching Metaphysics Part 2
If we think about it we will realize that we are unable to take anything material with us to the higher worlds when we pass on. We are unable to take along with us our house, our money, our possessions, our titles, etc. What we do take along are things that are immaterial--our knowledge, our memories, our karma, our habits, our character, our spiritual and psychic development, our aspirations and desires. We can see from this that our purpose in this world, in this physical plane is in connection with those immaterial things mentioned above, and if--and metaphysics declare it to be so--evolution is a law of Nature, a Cosmic law, then our true purpose is to evolve, to improve and to purify those immaterial things. Our greatest opportunity in this world is the correct use of time. Use this gift of God searching for Truth and not wasting it on non-essentials.Perhaps after being a little pessimistic about reflecting death just awhile ago we may now be cheerful and be optimistic about life and to carry-out the main purpose of physical existence instead of wasting our precious time, energy and resources on immoderate and excessive entertainment: too much watching TV, too much sex, the taking of drugs, and indulgence in other material devices invented and designed by the Dark forces to sidetrack and make us forget our divine heritage, purpose of being and our mission here on Earth. This is the nature of evil: it diverts us from experiencing our true soul-purpose and need. Anything that distracts us from improving our soul nature, our character, our morals, or acquiring metaphysical knowledge of Cosmic laws and truths, is to be considered as an evil mechanism and an intruder to our microcosmic system. These evil intruders sometimes work in such a subtle manner at times that even disciples of metaphysics are sometimes caught off-guard.The Pure LifeA metaphysical life entails living a life of purity. Even before approaching a Master for apprenticeship, a pure, spiritual, constructive life should be lived as best as one is able to. The degree of purity within us can be seen and felt by the Spiritual Masters and Adepts of metaphysics and the occult. They know our spiritual state and status by the colors and the luminosity of our aura, by our facial expression, by the quality of the emanations of our eyes, and by the way we think, speak and act.By the above we do not imply that one has to be a saint in order to be a worthy student of the occult or metaphysics. What we are saying is that purity is a necessary quality to possess and to develop when one becomes a serious student of the occult. It is an indispensable quality for it prepares our psycho-biological system, our nervous systems to withstand intense energies that we invoke from the higher worlds through our occult and metaphysical studies. We often hear of people going insane because of their involvement with the occult or metaphysics. This is because of their lack of purity. Their nervous systems were not able to sustain the spiritual vibrations coursing through them. When this occurs, as mentioned before, the nervous system ruptures, certain brain cells and nerve centers are destroyed, and the etheric webs protecting the student from overexposure to impressions of higher frequencies coming from the other dimensions, are shattered. One is then unable to shift focus from one reality to another but is opened to both. This causes too much strain. Insanity is the sad result.Spiritual energy invoked through mystical practices also evokes the undesirable elements lying within us. If these elements are not cleared by a process of purification, they would cause us trouble. This is not to say that metaphysics or the occult is an unsafe study. There is danger in everything. One simply needs the right information and common sense, and take precautionary measures when delving into any study, especially metaphysics and the occult.Purification is a multi-level process. It should occur on all levels of the microcosm. For instance, our physical body, our blood-stream, our energy-structures, our emotions, our minds, our aura, and chakras, all need to undergo purification. The Path of Purification is a basic step in any system of occult, metaphysical, and spiritual study. To neglect this essential step is to open-up ourselves to spiritual dangers. Any Guru neglecting the Path of Puification in his or her metaphysical system is a false teacher working against the evolutionary tide and spiritual current. It is not beyond the means of any average person to become pure and holy. The difficulty is that people do not see purity or holiness for what it is. They have many erroneous concepts regarding it. For instance, some of us believe that to be holy one has to seclude oneself from society, be celibate, or wear white robes or even tattered clothing. They believe that to be holy one must dress oneself in some special way or wear a certain hairstyle or do strange things, or act a little mad. These are all fallacies. We should all strive for holiness by being what we truly are, and not be what we think ourselves to be. In the name of Light, Life and Love, we appeal to all students to be pure and holy.A Balanced Approach Towards MetaphysicsIn metaphysics or in the occult, the student is requested to take a balanced approach. There are three factors that students have to consider:1) Knowledge of metaphysical laws, principles, and cosmic truths.2) Unfoldment of spiritual and psychic senses, faculties, and abilities.3) Acceleration of one's spiritual development, of one's soul evolution.The pursuit of these three together in a harmonious way is necessary in developing a well-rounded attainment. When one is over-emphasized and the others compromised as to their importance, then trouble results for the metaphysical student. For instance, too much knowledge without spiritual abilities and a spiritual development results in a poor instrument, one ineffective in the service of men, and one filled with pride and vanity. Psychic abilities without knowledge and a degree of spiritual advancement causes similar symptoms as the above--pride and vanity, together with a poor understanding of what one registers through the psychic centers. Though one be "spiritual," without metaphysical knowledge and understanding one is often deluded and misled by psychic forces. One falls into the trap of glamour and illusion.To be spiritually developed without adequate knowledge and psychic ability results in one's ineffectiveness in serving humanity. We can see from this that the problem facing the metaphysical student is the correct pursuit and development of those three factors simultaneously. The unfoldment of these three factors causes that Divine Spark (Spirit), the Soul-Flame within us to grow in strength and magnitude. This Spark is threefold. There is a will-power aspect (blue), a love-wisdom aspect (pink) and an intelligence-understanding aspect (yellow). This divine flame, metaphysically, has its location within our physical heart and is about 2 cm in size. It is representative of the Higher Soul within the microcosm which is likewise threefold in nature. Esoteric students of Theosophy, for instance, call these components of the threefold Soul, atma, buddhi, and manas.Too often metaphysical, occult, or so-called spiritual Gurus teach on the basis of a single approach. This does much harm to the student and to society in the long run, or in the very least, it does no lasting good. Advanced teachers, or true Spiritual Masters would synthesize the above three factors. Their approach as a synthesis of those triune factors, would be practical, instructive, and informative.Let us look again at those three factors. What do we mean by occult and metaphysical knowledge? By such knowledge we mean of the following :Knowledge concerning, the origin of Spirit-Man; the origin of human beings; the origin of the solar system; civilizations of unrecorded hstory; the real history of man; man's purpose of being; the progression and the transmission of the ageless teachings throughout the centuries; the origin of religion; the Mystery Schools; the occult anatomy of man; man's latent powers and faculties; the secret teachings and oral tradition of the prophets; the nature and laws governing the higher worlds and man; the application of Cosmic laws; the hidden laws of this three-dimensional world; the principles of counseling and healing; the nature of man, etc.Now what do we mean by the unfoldment of psychic and spiritual abilities? What are they? Here are just a few: the ability to register spiritual impulses emanating from the Soul, the Spirit, the Spiritual Hierarchy, one's spiritual group, and Master; telepathy; the ability to direct the elements and forces of Nature; spiritual vision; etheric vision; the ability to function consciously in the higher worlds; the ability to attune with the Divine Cosmic Mind; the ability to know the past, present and future; the ability to heal body, mind and soul; the power to create; etc.And lastly, what do we mean by spiritual development? We means expanding one's consciousness; opening up the intuitive channels; the transcendence of the false ego; the expression of one's divinity; oneness with Nature, God and one's fellow men; the purification of one's thoughts, words, and actions; the realization and awareness of one's true identity, and the unfoldment of all spiritual virtues and attitudes such as sacrifice, renunciation, detachment, steadfastness, endurance, strength, self-control, patience, magnanimity, purity, heroism, truthfulness, generosity, compassion, understanding, love, affection, serenity, faithfulness, altruism, tolerance, reason, devotion, adaptability, sincerity, joy, discernment between the real and the unreal, service, balance, beauty, harmony, creativity, confidence, perception, reverence, sympathy, punctuality, love, tenderness, gratitude, gentleness, harmlessness, inclusiveness, desirelessness, forgiveness, trust, self-discipline, etc.So far we have used the words occult, metaphysics, and spirituality interchangeably. At this time this suits our purpose, but we have to realize that these terms are not synonymous and each have a specific definition of their own. To these terms we may include mysticism, magick, parapsychology, parapsychic science, and esotericism as each having a definite meaning and yet still connected with metaphysics in general. In the course of one's metaphysical study one would gradually come to realize the fundamental difference.Humility and FearlessnessSo far, we have already dealt at some length with the qualities that the candidate of metaphysical studies has to possess, such as purity and an open mind. Other important qualities are those of humility and fearlessness.Humility is the quality of acknowledging the greatness of God as expressing throughout Nature. It is the realization that no matter what one attains or what one becomes there is always room for further growth. Thus, one never view oneself as representing a final attainment such as being the smartest kid in school, for one knows that there are still others much more smarter than oneself. There is always room for improvement. We should not just look down before us, look upwards as well and see that there are others far above us. Reaching one peak allows us to see a higher summit.There is pride in thinking of being wise or in being stupid. There is also pride in thinking of being rich or in being poor. The writer has often heard people lamenting on how poor they are, and they enjoy saying this and proving it. They would take quite a lot of trouble to prove that they are poor and that none are in as much a need as themselves. This is pride expressing itself, for they fail to see that they possess many of God's precious gifts to them, such as their senses to register impressions, their minds to think, their will to act, and their hands and feet to carry-out their desire; in short, all that is required to manifesting prosperity. Such people are ungrateful beings. In this they show their lack of humility.When approaching an Occult Master in an egoistic manner, he would most certainly reprimand us verbally . . . or in silence. Such applicants for the teachings are quickly shown the exit. Demanding to be taught indicates one's unreadiness for occultism and metaphysics. Instead of requesting from the Guru the higher teachings, one should come to realize that one still requires the lower teachings and disciplines from the many challenges that life has to offer and instruct us. All of these challenges are simply for the purpose of taming the human ego. The ego when unbridled, is an unfit vessel for metaphysical and spiritual teachings. Where the ego strives, there humility dies.Fear is one of the obstacles to metaphysical understanding and awareness. Approaching and advancing on the occult path entails facing many enemies and frightening phenomena, the worst of these is our own lower self with its many subconsious projections which in occult circles is called the Dweller on the Threshold. If we wish to pursue occult studies, fearlessness is a paramount virtue to possess, for in truth nothing can hurt us unless we give it the power to do so. One of the maxims of the Great White Brotherhood is to know, to dare, to do, and to be silent. Make this maxim a part of yourself.In the maxim above the student is advised to be silent. It is disrespectful to the teacher and to the Cosmic to reveal secret and esoteric matters to those unprepared for it. Be ever watchful of your mouth, for as the Master Jesus said: "Do not cast pearls before swines." Silence is a protective quality. It protects the person who keeps silent on sacred matters as well as others who may be inclined to misuse the information. Assume silence when you should be silent and only speak when others are not courageous enough to defend Truth. Silence is golden at the right place and at the right time, and on sacred matters. Students will progress more rapidly should silence be a part of their being. Do not draw attention to yourself. Do not speak of your occult experiences to those unsympathetic to metaphysics, for this would simply provide them with offensive weapons.In metaphysics too often than not, one may encounter contradictions. These contradictions may just be apparent and not real. Truth is like a cut diamond with its many facets. Keep in mind that what is relatively true is synonymous to being relatively false. However, in cases of contradictions, adopt that which seems more logical to you.This is an important article and the student is advised to consider it wisely. It is hoped that the student be sincere and apply these teachings that he or she may acquire the virtues that we have referred to. In the days of Atlantis, men misused and abused occult and metaphysical teachings. This was one of the direct reasons why the continent submerged and leaving very few traces as to its geographical location, its place in the memory of men, or in our history books. Many civilizations ended drastically because of the misuse and exploitation of knowledge for selfish ends. People mistakenly believe that the ends justify the means. This is false. The means determines the end. Let us not repeat our ancient mistakes, as it interrupts the evolutionary process and cause the holy ones to weep. Copyright © 2006 Luxamore Leonard Lee aka Luxamore Metaphysical teacher, counseler, healer and merchant of occult/magickal items of Indonesia. Magickal Items from Indonesia: talismans, mustika pearls, kerises, etc. Magickal Bezoar Mustika Pearls from Indonesia.