Man/Woman As The Microcosm

He/she is Master

Who reigns supreme

In their own kingdom.

-SB

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Q: Man/woman is the microcosm. What does this saying mean and its significance to the spiritual traveler?

In relation to the larger cosmos and God/Absolute, each traveler is the smaller universe. It is believed that when a traveler has mastered their own kingdom/universe (self), they are master of the larger, as well.

Science has proven what the ancients knew for millennia. Each traveler is a small universe, with countless factors working together. Made-up of billions of cells and trillions of atoms; each traveler is the product of millions of years of evolution and is a highly complex and sometimes contradictory being.

Mystically man is consciousness and the coming together of three realms. The physical, mental (psychic), and spiritual (Noetic) realms all exist simultaneously within man’s consciousness. The terms spirit and soul are often interchangeable and sometimes confusing. From our perspective, what is important is that we recognize and develop our latent spiritual capacity.

Additionally, it is believed man simultaneously exists on three planes and the higher soul continually perceives the Source or Higher Impulse. Usually, this aspect of consciousness is blocked by lower stimuli (physical, mental and emotional); and the inner journey consists of learning to push aside lower impulses so the higher, might be heard. We are always in tune with the Source, but because of inner distractions have forgotten how to listen to the inner whisper.

The three realms coincide with our modern discussion about physical, mental (thought and emotional) and spiritual awareness. Generally, man is believed to have all three levels of consciousness and energy present and interacting. Additionally, when we feel something or have a moment of insightful thought, these thoughts/impulses register as energy on a variety of levels.

Science has taught, physical stimuli are felt in our body and mind (consciousness). For example, pain is felt where the skin is pierced and registers in our mind; when injured, our whole being fills with a burning, tearing sensation. Similarly, emotions register in our body and consciousness. We now know, chemically, tears of sorrow are different than tears of joys. Yes- all emotions and thoughts have a chemical signature to them.

According to the mystic, all consciousness originates and begins in the soul; the soul being comprised of spiritual ether. We are spiritual beings and this is our lasting self (aspect). When the physical body decays, our consciousness will journey onward.

The soul has both a higher and lower center; these centers coincide with various stimuli. Higher stimuli, for example, are spiritual impulses to help others and lower stimuli are selfish thoughts which exceed are daily physical need and requirement.

One who is able to act along with the higher impulse has become master of self and the microcosm; and because the microcosm is now aligned, through this process with the macrocosm, the traveler is said to be master of all three dimensions/realms.

Through traveling a spiritual path to completion, it is said, the traveler has become a Hermes Trismegistus- The Thrice Great Hermes.

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Man/woman can never duplicate

The majesty of God.

But man/woman can touch this glory

For an instant

With their heart.

-SB

Check out my two new books: Sufism for Western Seekers: Path of the Spiritual Traveler in Everyday Life and The Ferryman’s Dream . Both books are available through Amazon.com or local booktore.

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