LIGHT ON ESOTERIC
ASTROLOGY XX
POLARIS
Situated in the constellation
popularly known as the Little Dipper, this important star appears to perch at
the very end of the dipper’s handle, in a position very near to which the
Earth’s north pole presently points.
Known to the public as the North Star and to astronomers as Alpha Ursa
Minor, Polaris is the brightest star found in the constellation of the Lesser
(or Little) Bear. Astronomy recognizes
Polaris as a double or binary star,[1]
and at approximately 44 light years distant from Earth, it is counted one of
the stars most remote from the position of our solar system in the Milky Way
galaxy.[2]
The
name Polaris itself comes from Latin, meaning “of the pole,” and is related to
the Greek word, polos, which means pivot or axis, and to the Greek verb meaning
“to turn.”[3] Alpha Ursa Minor was of course given a name
reflective of a polar position or pivot point because it sits so near the point
in the northern sky toward which the north pole of our planet points, and
therefore appears from earthly perspective to be the point around which the
whole celestial sphere circles. Polaris
thus holds a place of honor in the great celestial sphere as seen from Earth,
though actually, this star is located about one degree of celestial longitude
distant from the precise point toward which the north pole of our planet
points.[4]
Polaris has nonetheless been perceived as the north pole star since
approximately the 15th century,[5]
simply because it is the nearest easily perceived star in the immediate
vicinity of the celestial north point.
As
the orientation of the Earth’s axis continues to migrate very slowly within the
nutation cycle, the north pole point will come as close to the exact location
for Polaris as ever it will in the year 2095 A.D. (or CE), when the pole point
will be just one half degree of celestial longitude away from the exact
position of Polaris.[6] Eventually, the nutation cycle will bring the
Earth’s axis to point at yet another star.
Over the entire period of the nutation cycle, which comprises nearly
26,000 years,[7]
various stars serve as markers for the north celestial point,[8] a
cyclic fact definitely referred to by the Tibetan.[9] The amount of time during which each such
star functions as the north celestial point varies greatly, as the circuit of
stars through which the pole point must move is distributed quite unevenly
throughout space. However, astronomers
are able to predict on the basis of the direction and speed of nutation that
the star next to function as the pole star (following Polaris) will be Gamma
Cepheus,[10]
which star the pole point will be nearest in approximately 4500 A.D. (or
CE). Thus, Polaris will remain the pole
star for many centuries yet to come.
Esoteric
Characterization of Polaris
Just
as Polaris currently provides a point of physical orientation in the sky, it is
also said to generate similar spiritual themes in its esoteric
characterization. According to the
Tibetan, Polaris “…is at this time a major ‘star of direction.’”[11] The exact sense in which Polaris provides
direction can be garnered from the Tibetan’s equation of the term “direction”
with the will, purpose, and plan of our Solar Logos and its evolutionary
undertakings.[12] Thus, it would appear that Polaris imparts to
our entire solar sphere an energy which feeds directly into the sense of
purpose driving our Solar Logos.
Specifically, this energy is First Ray in nature, as the Tibetan
specified.[13] This statement would strongly suggest that
Polaris emits a Ray One influence. In
fact, the connection of Ray One with Polaris is certain, for this star is said
to govern Shamballa,[14]
the unquestioned repository of Ray One as planetary purpose on our globe. Thus, Polaris is a “star of direction” in the
esoteric sense because it distributes those energies in creation which impart
purposive intention and therefore a definite objective or course of
action. These Polaris passes on to our
Solar Logos, and in lesser degree, to all units of life contained within the
solar periphery.
There
is a second sense in which Polaris imparts a sense of direction to units
falling under its influence. As the
Tibetan phrased it, “Esoterically speaking, the Pole Star is regarded as the
‘star of reorientation’ whereby the art of ‘refacing and recovering that which
is lost’ is developed. This eventually
brings a man back to his originating source.”[15] This “reorientation” brought about by Polaris
(the present Pole Star) would appear to concern the necessary shift which takes
place on the Path of Return, when the individual ceases its identification with
the outer form nature and replaces that infatuation with a fundamental interest
in the soul (or the monad at a later stage).
This change of focus allows the individual to recover the soul
consciousness (or monadic being) which was temporarily “lost” upon taking
re-incarnation. Thus, to simplify the
matter, it could be stated that it is the energy of Polaris which helps the
spiritual seeker remember the real source of her or his existence. This remembrance or recollection of origin
begins and sustains the process of return to source, which is to say a return
to the soul (or monad) and the greater Lives Logoic from which the lesser unit
has been spawned.
Thus,
whether it is establishment of purpose for life in form or the remembrance of
source for the gradual release from same, Polaris it is which helps to gain the
proper orientation. Whether this
orientation is called right direction or re-facing and recovering, it represents
the identification and maintaining of a proper target, as opposed to an aimless
wandering in the sea of phenomenal living.
Polaris it is, according to the esoteric astrological doctrine, which
reaches right into the consciousness of the individual and reminds the knower
toward what point he or she should be striving.
Of course, such an effect is relatively negligible in the case of
seekers not yet of the Third Degree in initiatory status, as it is only at that
point which any of the non-zodiacal stars have any real, specific, or immediate
effect on the individual. The Third
Initiation is the truly the gateway to the non-zodiacal stars, which in
themselves represent the region of universals and monadic being. Hence, Polaris may speak to seekers of a
degree earlier than the Third, but it undoubtedly does so with far more
eloquence to those who are either fast approaching or yet beyond the
Transfiguration Gate.
All
this would be quite enough for one star to accomplish, but it is hardly the
full gamut of effects attributed to Polaris by the esoteric astrological
doctrine. Part of that doctrine in
regard to Polaris is to be found in Bailey’s Light of the Soul, which is a modern rendering of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, an ancient
Sanskrit work translated and interpreted variously throughout the many
centuries since it was originally compiled.
According to Bailey, the Tibetan Master re-translated and paraphrased
the Yoga Sutras, and then dictated
them to her as a modern version for contemporary students of the Ageless
Wisdom.[16] Bailey added commentary, which commentary was
in turn revised by the Tibetan.[17] Thus, in The
Light of the Soul resides an updated version of ancient wisdom, for as
Bailey stated, “The Yoga Sutras are the basic teaching of the Trans-Himalayan
School to which many of the Masters of the Wisdom belong….”[18] What the Sutras have to say is therefore of
immediate interest to all students and affiliates of Planetary Hierarchy.
In
the Tibetan’s recension of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Sutra 28 in Book III
concerns the star Polaris, or perhaps whatever star may hold the Pole Star
position at any given time. There, the
text states in what would appear to be an extraordinary claim, “Concentration
upon the Pole-Star will give knowledge of the orbits of the planets and the
stars.”[19]
Since Polaris is currently the Pole Star, it would seem to be this very star to
which this claim refers.
This
statement alone would be sufficient for amazement, but Bailey’s commentary
(revised by the Tibetan, and therefore representative of his point of view)
goes even farther. The commentary
states, “…this sutra forms the background for all astrological investigation…”
and will eventually bring forth an understanding of the relationship between
our solar system and the six other systems with which it is allied in the body
of a greater Logos.[20] Moreover, the commentary maintains, this
sutra contains revelations as to:
1. the purpose of the “seven and twelve” (rays and signs, or perhaps rays and Creative
Hierarchies)
2. the meaning of the twelve labors of Hercules
3. and the purpose of our planet and its role in
a cosmic triangle composed of Polaris, the Great Bear, and our globe.[21]
Prospects such as this contingent
simply upon some type of stellar contemplation simply leave the mind
reeling. What all this actually means
must certainly remain an open question, but perhaps certain clarifying
statements may be made which will bring the matter into manageable perspective.
The
first question which must be addressed is whether or not the Tibetan meant to
imply by the word “concentration” that simple viewing of the Pole Star would
confer mastery of all the technical revelations promised in this sutra. Though at the outset such a suggestion might
seem outlandish, it may not stretch the bounds of credulity as much as might be
imagined. Vedic tradition certainly
includes a practice of Sun gazing, said to bring all manner of physical,
emotional, and mental healing, as well as ultimate spiritual enlightenment. Since the Sun is but another star in the
galactic community of Solar Logoi, it should not be terribly different from
Polaris, its distant brother in the family of suns. Thus, if great boon may be had by proper Sun
gazing or contemplation, why not the same for a proper visual concentration
upon Polaris?
Thus, if an habitual gaze trained on
Polaris could indeed spontaneously illumine the mind in these matters, all
esoteric astrological seekers ought to head directly to the nearest available
dark sky and set right to work, for the general turf outlined here covers a
generous portion of the entire field of esoteric astrological study. Could but these questions be mastered, the
seeker would be well on her or his way to esoteric astrological adeptship!
Again,
the total list of insights credited in the Yoga Sutras to contemplation of
Polaris is as follows.
1. knowledge of the orbits of the planets and
the stars
2. understanding of the relationship between our
solar system and the six other systems with which it is allied in the body of a
greater Logos
3. revelation as to the purpose of the “seven
and the twelve”
4. revelation as to the meaning of the twelve
Labors of Hercules
5. revelation as to the function of our planet
in its role as one point of the cosmic triangle, Polaris-Great Bear-Earth.
These
five knowledges and revelations concern the following classes of information:
1. the technical, astronomical, and even
esoteric arrangement of space and the points around which various bodies orbit,
2. the dynamics of the annual solar cycle as
seen from our planet, to which the Labors of Hercules correspond,
3. at least parts of the Science of Triangles,
and
4. the objectives for which the Seven Ray Lords
and either the Twelve Creative Hierarchies or the intelligences of the twelve
zodiacal constellations strive.
As said, the comprehension of all this
would constitute much. But again, the
question is whether or not the simple act of looking upon starlight can confer
such momentous realizations. Though it
is possible that the light from Polaris contains such information and that it
can be decoded by the human eye, this has yet to be demonstrated dependably by
western students of esoteric occultism.
Yogic adepts of eastern traditions may indeed embrace just such a
tradition, for many are the wonders of
The practical implication may be
otherwise for today’s seekers, who are largely city dwellers lacking access to
skies sufficiently dark for genuine visual concentration on Polaris. What can be managed in such circumstances is
a definite concentration upon the principles of spatial arrangement embodied in
the position of Polaris, together with a vital quest into the nature of Divine
Purpose at it is embodied in this star, and which is consequently brought
forward into our solar system via its astrological intermediaries. In a word, then, the term concentration might
also be taken to mean study; simply a study of all that can be gathered about
Polaris, letting this be the sustained attention or concentration which will
confer seeming miracles of mystic and occult insight.
If that is the case, then one must ask
what is so unique about the spatial positioning of Polaris that such
revelations may come of its contemplation.
The answer is, of course, its position as the pivot of the sky, the
point in the heavens around which the entire nightly pageant seems to
revolve. Of course, it isn’t really true
that all the stars circle around Polaris; it only seems so on account of our
planet’s axial rotation, which movement carries us in a circle endlessly,
displaying to us all the parts of the sky in a twenty four hour period. The one point that stays put from our
perspective is that north point, so very close to which is the star Polaris. Thus, Polaris might be said to teach the lesson
that all is a matter of perspective, created by combinations of axial rotation
and orbital arrangements. This in itself
is a type of enlightenment.
By extension, this principle would
also explain the annual solar cycle, which is caused by the orbit of Earth
around the Sun, and the consequently and constantly changing backdrop against
which the Sun is positioned.
Thus,
the facts of rotation and orbital motion are both implied in our view of
Polaris, the first in our nightly experience of the sky, the second in our
seasonal experience of the stars in its immediate vicinity. It could therefore be said that the position
of Polaris points up both the effects of axial rotation and orbital motion. This may be one of the reasons that
commentary on Sutra 28 (which specifies the Pole Star as a source of revelation
concerning technical matters of astronomical value) alleges that the
information contained in this Sutra forms the background for all astrological
investigation. Perhaps it does so
because it embodies and stands for certain key principles that must be held in
mind if a proper understanding of spatial relationships is to be had. Lacking such, the student goes off the
proverbial deep end, lost in an impenetrable haze of illusions and appearances,
such as the illusion that the Pole star actually is the center of the sky. It isn’t, though it seems so to us. That’s the key point. Neither is our Sun the center of the
universe, though it seems so within the confines of our system. Again, all is a matter of perspective in the
world of astronomical fundamentals upon which esoteric astrological
considerations are based.
As to how the study of Polaris reveals
at least a portion of the Science of Triangles, the following might be borne in
mind. Specifically, the portion said to
be revealed concerns a triangle composed of Polaris, the Great Bear, and planet
Earth.[22] Through knowledge of this triangle, the
purpose of our planet is said to be revealed.
That both Polaris and the Great Bear distribute a mighty dose of Ray One
and hence all things to do with purpose is already known. It must be that when these two powerhouses
gang up and direct their beams at any given planet, the truth of its raison
d’etre shines forth. Students who are
brave enough to seek personal confirmation on this matter might visualize and
meditate upon a triangle of energies circulating between these points in the
celestial sphere. Sustained
“concentration” in this direction may bring much, perhaps more than can be
reasonably digested at this point in evolution.
Prudence should guide, as in all things occult.
The esoteric characterization of
Polaris thus embraces a sizeable territory, ranging from right spiritual
orientation to matters of technical occultism.
Polaris seems to be particularly rich in this second category concerning
matters of technical occultism. A case
in point concerns the determination of long time cycles. Polaris is, according to the Tibetan Master,
in some way to be taken into consideration as a factor in the calculation of
such intervals, especially in regard to our planet.[23] This statement may be nothing other than a
veiled reference to the nutation cycle, which is of course directly linked to
the precessional cycle, the nutation cycle being the basic mechanism which
causes the Earth’s axis of rotation to align with various stars during an
approximately 26,000 year period. At any
rate, it is certain that Polaris in some way figures prominently in
calculations of vast time periods which bear upon and partially determine
certain evolutionary periods on our planet.
Blavatsky referred to the Pole Star in
just this fashion. Speaking of the root
races and their earliest appearances, she wrote, “…the occult sciences show
that the founders…of the Root Races have all been connected with the Pole
Star.”[24] She also connected the Pole Star (called
Dhruva by the sacred astronomy of
In
these utterances from the sibylline pen are to be found many implications. First, it might be gathered that in some way
cycles linked to the Pole Star mark out the time periods during which the
various major races hold sway. Second,
cycles connected with the Pole Star are plainly associated by Blavatsky’s
sources with periods of either planetary or solar obscuration, though the number
9090 is unlikely to be a literal measure but rather an occult cypher standing
for something other than a mere 9,090 earth years.
Though
other stars than Polaris have been and will be again the marker of the Pole, it
is presently Polaris which now holds this place, and thus Polaris with which
these matters are currently associated.
Again, these matters have to do with the length of major race periods
and the times of planetary and solar obscuration. The precise figures for the duration of such
cyclic happenings were not specified by the Tibetan, who stated instead that
even though the effect of the Pole Star (in this case, Polaris) and that of
other celestial factors must be taken into consideration in the calculation of
long cycles, “...the true esoteric knowledge is not to be gained by the study
of figures by the lower mind…” but rather that it “…comes as the result of the
intuition and is stimulated at initiation.”[26] Thus, the exact nature and effect of Polaris
remains a somewhat elusive matter, trailing clouds of mystery as it eludes easy
capture.
The
Fifth Cosmic Path:
A Further Clue to the Esoteric Nature of
Polaris
The mystery concerning the nature of
Polaris began with the Tibetan’s first apparent reference to this star in A
Treatise on Cosmic Fire. There, in
speaking of the Fifth Cosmic Path, also called the Ray Path, the Tibetan Master
stated that the source of energy enlivening the adepts of this path “…may be
regarded as the Pole Star.”[27] However, he went on to say, “It should
nevertheless be pointed out that this star serves only as a blind for a
constellation which lies behind, - a constellation which exists only in etheric
matter.”[28] From this statement might reasonably be drawn
the conclusion that indeed it is Polaris (fronting for an “etheric
constellation”) which functions as the source for the Fifth Cosmic Path, the
Ray Path. It is this star’s probable
position as the visible source for this particular Way of Higher Evolution
which provides yet another view of its esoteric nature.
The linkage of Polaris with the Fifth
Cosmic or Ray Path was restated in Bailey’s The Rays and the Initiations,[29]
the dictation of which volume followed the Tibetan’s first mention of the Pole
Star and the Ray Path in A Treatise on Cosmic Fire by some twenty-five
years. Taking both the earlier and later
discussions of the Ray Path into consideration, a reasonable profile of its
workings and objectives emerges, thus providing a clue to the nature of
Polaris, now the Pole Star and hence intimately involved with this Path, even
if only as a front-man for the actual deeper source of energies involved.
As it turns out, the name given to the
Fifth Cosmic Path reveals one of three essential issues with which this path is
concerned. Called the Ray Path, this way
of Higher Evolution schools the adept in recognition of the intentions and life
purposes of the very Ray Lords themselves.[30] Adepts of the Ray Path are not yet Lords of
Rays themselves, as that is a much later stage.
Yet, they are deeply immersed in an effort to cognize the objectives and
purposes hidden in the great Ray Lives.[31] This they are somewhat equipped to do, being
initiates of the Sixth Degree, for they shall have passed the Decision (or
Sixth) Initiation prior to passing onto this Cosmic Path. Upon having done so, one major portion of
their training concerns the ability to understand the Lives which express
themselves as the Seven Rays; hence, this Path is denominated the “Ray Path.”
The second essential issue confronted
by the adepts of the Ray Path concerns the nature of the Will Aspect, which is
ever at back of the Ray Lives and their reasons for existence. In fact, the entire Ray Path is conditioned
by the confrontation with First Aspect realities, for adepts on this Cosmic
Path learn to deal with “sublime purposes and divine intentions.”[32] In other words, they learn to pass beyond the
appearances of the Seven Ray Lords or Lives and to discern the objectives for
which these Lives exist. However, this
is only the very most elementary facet of the training gained on the Fifth
Cosmic Path, according to the Tibetan Master, who stated that knowledge of the
seven types of the Will[33]
forms the basis for the experience gained on the Ray Path.[34] Perhaps not surprisingly, then, adepts
following this Path ultimately arrive at the equivalent of Shamballa upon
another globe,[35]
which is to say that they find the First Aspect head center of another
planetary manifestation within which to continue their service in the Spiritual
Hierarchy of the solar system. In sum,
then, it can be said with confidence that the second issue of concern on the
Fifth Cosmic Path is the perception of the Will Aspect.
The third major theme with which the
adepts of the Fifth or Ray Path are concerned is probably the true occult basis
for the Tibetan’s claim in Esoteric
Astrology that Polaris is a star of
direction. If Polaris even partly
inspires the mechanics of this Path, then reasons for its association with the
theme of direction will be apparent soon enough.
The Tibetan’s characterization of the
Fifth Cosmic Path contains concepts and principles of a decidedly obscure
nature, which is only proper given the fact that all of the Seven Cosmic Paths
pertain to evolution following the Sixth Initiation, a stage which is sure to
be in advance of most who will read these words. Because of this, consideration of the issues
connected with any of them will stretch the reader’s mind. These issues must be considered, even if only
rudimentarily so, in an effort to grasp the nature of the stellar sources from
which such energy pathways arise.
Hence,
in any attempt to understand Polaris, it is necessary to grapple with the
nature of the Cosmic Path of which it is at least the partial source. In so doing, there emerges the third critical
theme associated with this Path, a theme which while clearly connected with the
theme of direction, also entails mysteries of energy management which can only
be properly and fully understood by advanced initiates.
According
to the Tibetan Master, the Fifth Cosmic Path involves a work or labor which
plays a fundamental role in keeping our entire solar system properly oriented
to surrounding space and other Solar Logoi.
This work or labor is carried out by the adepts of the Fifth or Ray
Path, who themselves “…are the constituent factor which occultly holds our
solar system steadily equilibrised in one specific direction.”[36] This one specific direction may be the path
taken by our Sun as it orbits the galactic center, which motion is called
“proper motion” by astronomy. Proper
motion is the general movement of all stars in the galaxy around the galactic
center. It may be the accurate following
of this motion which is facilitated by the adepts of the Fifth Cosmic Path, the
work of which the Tibetan Master said “might be compared to that of a compass
on a ship.”[37] These adepts, he stated, are distinguished
by their powerful ability to sense and detect cosmic direction. Such an ability may also refer to an ability
to accurately register the angle at which the invariable plane of our solar
system is inclined to the invariable plane of the galaxy. Even if neither proper motion nor the angle
of inclination is that to which this description refers, it is still true that
the work of the Fifth Cosmic Path concerns right orientation. Adepts of this Path are charged with preserving
a steady and unwavering sense of the precise direction which must be
pursued by the solar system as a whole within greater cosmic space, whether
that concept is construed literally or interpreted more subjectively.
The
way in which the Ray Path adepts accomplish this sensing of cosmic direction is of the essence, for it
reveals something of the Pole Star, to which stellar source they respond. Again according to the Tibetan, the manner of
working followed by the adepts of the Ray Path is as follows: they organize
their energy fields in such a way that they respond only to one basic
vibration. They identify solely with
this vibration; others they ignore.
Specifically, adepts of the Fifth Cosmic Path are taught “…how to
insulate themselves so that no vibration save the one which reaches them from
the cosmic source of the synthetic ray can touch them.”[38] And what might that cosmic source be? Perhaps none other than Polaris, the present
Pole Star, known to distribute the vibrations of Ray One, which itself is
associated with the First Aspect and therefore with the Law of Synthesis. Thus, perhaps it is accurate to say that the
adepts of the Ray Path are simply taught to pay no attention to any vibratory
signal except that which comes forth from Polaris.
In
short, the adepts of the Ray Path appear to get their fix on right direction by
heeding only the voice of the trusty North Star, mighty Ray One Polaris, the
seeming pivot of the sky, linked with the Law of Synthesis and therefore
perhaps spoken of in occult parlance as a cosmic source of the synthetic ray.
The
key ability demonstrated on this path is a capacity to insulate the perceiving
mechanism that it may remain undisturbed by extraneous input. Exactly how this is accomplished is of course
a mystery revealed only to those with a legitimate right to know. However, the Tibetan did reveal certain
facets of the process. He stated that
the method whereby the adepts of the Fifth Cosmic path develop the power needed
for work on this Path is a “process of electrical insulation and the
imprisonment of polar magnetism.”[39]
Though
it may not be immediately apparent to just exactly what these terms refer, so
important is the formula as given that it is reproduced in the esoteric symbol
for the Fifth Cosmic Path. Seen
clairvoyantly, the esoteric symbol for the Ray Path contains a mantram written
in the initiatic Senzar language, the use of which, it is said, insulates the
adept of this path from “the magnetic flow of all currents save that for which
he is responsible.”[40] This mantram is inscribed on the image of a
serpent biting its tail, which forms the periphery of a sphere containing five
balls of blue fire,[41]
the last element being an obvious allusion to Cosmic Path number five. The number five corresponding to all things
related to the fifth element in the occult septenary, an immediate connection
with the work of our Planetary Fifth Ashram might be suspected, as it is this
Ashram from which the formulae concerning the nature of electricity have
emanated.[42]
At
any rate, it is apparent that “electrical insulation” and “imprisonment of
polar magnetism” form the key skills in energy management required by the
adepts of the Fifth Cosmic Path. The
twin abilities to electrically insulate and to imprison polar magnetism,
according to the Tibetan Master, have the effect of barring out, canceling,
neutralizing, and deflecting any magnetic currents except for one. Obviously, these skills enable the Ray Path
adept to reject and repel most of the numerous energy impacts impinging from
the life of space and, on top of that, to extract one particular type of energy
and trap or contain it in some way, that it may be held in absolutely unadulterated
purity.
Clearly,
this is not a set of skills the cultivation of which would normally be urged
upon the average striving seeker within the ranks of disciples on our planet,
where inclusion is urged above almost all things. No, the Ray Path adepts are in a different
world, held to different standards, because they are no longer plagued by the
same demons of separatism as are their juniors on the path. The ability of the
Ray Path adepts to refuse entry to certain energies is not the same thing as the
building of a hardened shell of rigid attitude, a problematic condition so
often to be seen in the ranks of Humanity.
Thus, though the mode of working followed by the Ray Path adepts may
seem to fly in the face of certain discipleship guidelines, it is because these
adepts long ago passed the tests of earthly discipleship and have now gone on
to evolve under different criteria.
There where they are, exclusivity of reception (of a certain type) is a
virtue.
In
an oblique hint concerning the quality developed by the adepts of the Fifth
Cosmic Path, the Tibetan quoted the characteristically cryptic Old Commentary,
thus: “The depression at the northern
point permits entrance of that which stabilises, and acts as the factor of
resistance to that which seeketh to deter or to distract.”[43] No clarification was offered; just this.
Any
reader with less than an intimate familiarity with the entirety of A Treatise
on Cosmic Fire might legitimately be expected to throw up his or her hands
in exasperation upon reading this. What,
it might be asked, has a “depression at the northern point” to do with the
workings of the Fifth Cosmic Path? An
answer to this very understandable question shall be adduced, but only after
the exploration of considerations which at first glance may seem only tangential.
As
it turns out, this allusion to a “depressed north point” forms part of a
discussion picked up now and again by the Tibetan throughout A Treatise on
Cosmic Fire. It concerns the shape and
internal dynamics of any spherical entity, which is to say, all forms, for
according to the esoteric occult doctrine, all forms are spheroids in rotation
when seen clairvoyantly.[44] Particularly, any solar sphere (or body of a
star) is said to be a sphere slightly flattened at its north pole region.[45] The same might logically be expected to be
true of a basically spherical planetary body, or globe, a concept certainly
supported by modern geophysics. Thus,
this seemingly out of place assertion concerning a “depression at the northern
point” moves consideration of the Fifth Cosmic Path to the energy dynamics
surrounding and inhering within any spherical form, which concept would
therefore apply to equally to Earth, the Sun, and the star Polaris.
The
key element in all this is the function of the “depression at the northern
point.” This excerpt from the Old
Commentary states that the northern depression “permits entrance of that which
stabilises, and acts as the factor of resistance to that which seeketh to deter
or to distract.” Stabilizing and
resisting distraction are exactly the labors to which the adepts of the Fifth
Cosmic Path are given. Thus, this
apparently oblique excerpt from the Old Commentary is but a restatement of
principles guiding the work accomplished by those upon the Fifth Cosmic Path,
with an added bit of information. The
added bit of information is this: a certain “depressed north point” is
critically involved in that which is accomplished by the Ray Path workers.
But
exactly what depressed north point on exactly what sphere? The answer is as follows. Since Ray Path workers are charged with
maintaining the proper orientation of the entire solar system to deep space and
surrounding star life and are therefore primarily engaged at the level of the
solar system, it would then follow that the depressed north point referred to
in this excerpt from the Old Commentary must indeed be the depressed north
polar region of our very own Sun.
Thus,
it is the slightly flattened north pole region of our local star at which certain
critical functions occur. There, a
certain energy flow is allowed to enter, but only that energy flow, and none
other. Ray Path workers make sure of
that. Yet, of what is that privileged
energy flow composed? Surprise: not
emanations from Polaris, but those from the Prototypical Triangle – the Great
Bear, Sirius, and the Pleiades. It is
this unified triple stream of energy which is the only seeker allowed to pass
that gate.[46] Everything else is thrown off.
However,
it is undoubtedly the power of Polaris which allows the workers engaged in
maintaining this dynamic to stay relentlessly focused on the matter at
hand. Theirs is the job of “electrical
insulation” and “imprisonment of polar magnetism.” Suddenly, these odd phrases no longer seem
quite so bizarre. Now that the context
in which all this occurs has been revealed as the north polar region of the
solar sphere, much comes to light. The
adepts on the Fifth Cosmic Path do just what the depressed north pole region
does: stabilize the orientation of the solar atom by resisting any input which
would confuse the situation. In other
words, they practice insulation and imprisonment of polar magnetism,
respectively, by refusing entrance to any other than one stream of energy and
by making sure that conditions at the depressed north pole of the Sun do not
fluctuate. They learn their skills from
great Polaris, the energy source of the Fifth Cosmic Path, but they apply them
at the slightly flattened north pole region of our very own Sun.
Thus,
it might be said that the adepts of the Fifth Cosmic Path practice the
maintaining of singleminded purpose under the tutelage of the North Pole Star,
and then demonstrate the power of that purpose at the north polar region of our
own solar sphere. Again, “There is more
real occultism hidden in the names given to the various stars by astronomers
down the ages than has yet been realised….”[47] The correspondence is more than uncanny.
What
does all this reveal, then, about Polaris, today’s North Pole Star? It suggests that the influence of Polaris, as
revealed through the workings of the Fifth Cosmic Path, confers the ability to
zero in on one particular objective or vibration and to hold steady upon the
course thus indicated. Here is a message
entirely consistent with the characterization of Polaris as a “major star of
direction.” In fact, it is likely the real basis for the esoteric
characterization of the influence emanating from this star.
Thus, as has been shown, the influence
of Polaris concerns matters both psychospiritual and technical in nature,
spanning from right spiritual direction to precise time measurements, to
general principles bearing on the arrangement of celestial bodies in space, to
the occult mechanics of the solar sphere.
Let it now be seen whether or not any of these themes are reflected in
popular notions of Polaris.
Polaris Around the World
The career of Polaris in worldly
matters took a decidedly upward turn when maritime navigation became a main
feature of human endeavor. Since that
time, many stars and star groupings have served as basic orientation points for
sailing peoples at sea, but Polaris has certainly been key among such markers
in the night. Long before the compass
was invented, Polaris in the Little Bear served as an absolutely key
navigational aid, surpassing even the Great Bear for its usefulness in this
regard,[48]
as it was in all situations (provided visible) a reliable indicator showing in
which direction lay north.
Thus,
in a very literal sense, Polaris has persistently been regarded as a star
indicating direction – hence, exoterically a “star of direction,” just as it is
a star of direction esoterically considered. As a result of its critical sky
position, various names used for Polaris throughout time have been derived from
its importance as a steady light pointing north.[49] One such is “Lodestar,” a name given this
star by western sea-going peoples.[50]
Middle
Eastern peoples used this star to establish north and hence east, the direction
in which lay
Right spiritual direction has also
been popularly associated with this star, even beyond its obvious role in
establishing a basic sense of direction on the surface of the earth. North has traditionally been linked with the
sacred source of life, and thus Polaris as the light of the north shared in
that significance. For this reason, many
indigenous peoples throughout the world (including the Omaha tribe of North
America) have established customs designed to emphasize the northerly direction
and to draw from its realm those powers and energies they saw as essential to
the cohesion and survival of their cultures.[52] They did this in a simple yet ritualistic
way. A tall pole would be inserted in
the ground at such an angle as to point directly at the North Star. In this way, both the direction of north and
the rotational axis of the earth were implied.
The objective of such an arrangement was to draw down heavenly order and
to conduct it right into the earth, from thence to guide or “give right
direction to” earthly affairs.
Further along this same line of
thinking, the sacred medicine workers and shamans of various ethnic groups
traditionally begin their journeys to the higher dimensions by aiming their
intended astral flight line right at the North Star, or Polaris, through which
star gate they are understood to gain entrance to the sacred lands whence their
healing knowledge and prophetic understanding are garnered.[53]
According to Blavatsky, the Pole Star
ever indicates a hallowed direction because it represents
More in the way of a special role for
the Pole Star can be found in Hindu sacred ceremony, particularly that for marriage. Hindu wedding ceremonies include invocations
to both Ursa Major (or the Seven Rishis) and the Pole Star, or Dhruva, which is
one of the Vedic deities along with the Sun, Moon, and planets.[55]
Popular legend has it that the newly wed couple of
Arabic
desert peoples likewise held the influence of Polaris in high esteem, believing
that visual contemplation of this star would cure the itching of the eyelids, a
common malady in arid desert areas where sand blows about frequently.[56] Quite by contrast, ancient western astrology
attributed to this star the power to cause “much sickness, trouble, loss of
fortune, disgrace and great affliction,” though it might bestow legacies and
inheritances,[57]
a contradictory bunch of pronouncements if ever there were such. If the Tibetan Master’s recension of the Yoga
Sutras is an accurate indication, it is the Arabic belief in the curative
powers of Polaris which comes nearer the truth, for as Sutra 28 in Book III
might be read to suggest, Polaris has a particularly beneficial effect when
visual attention is directed to its place in the heavens. Whether such claims were ever meant to be
taken literally or not, there remains a ring of similarity between the Arabic
and yogic views of Polaris, which hints that perhaps its rays do in fact exert
a particularly beneficial effect.
Thus,
from maritime navigation, to the cultural and religious rituals of indigenous
peoples, to purported healing powers, the effect of Polaris has been oftentimes
viewed as essentially providential. It
has been perceived as the heavenly factor saving the sailor from the peril of
disorientation at sea, the indicator of holy direction, and the bestower of
spiritual guidance.
Is
it fair to say these are themes reflective of the esoteric characterization of
Polaris as a “star of direction?”
Eminently so. Once again, here is validation for the Tibetan’s Master’s
assertion[58]
that there is more real occultism to be found in association with the popular
notions concerning the stars than previously thought.
The Astrological
Intermediaries of Polaris
As
has been shown, the esoteric characterization and popular notions of Polaris
converge and concur upon the fact that this star not only points the way, but
also rests like a steadily guiding hand on the course of those who sense its
vibrations. For the esoteric seeker,
Polaris functions as a profound reminder concerning right direction in a
spiritual sense. It even “brings a man
back to his originating source,” whether that source be construed as soul,
monad, or Greater Logoic center.
Certainly this is an important stellar influence, the effects of which
are much to be desired on the path of discipleship and initiation.
The
influence of Polaris reaches individuals in various ways. Of course, its essential vibration is only
rightly perceived by those who are either nearing or past the Third or
Transfiguration Initiation, as is the case for any of the non-zodiacal stars
and constellations. Even so, the
influence of Polaris is disseminated broadly by three signs which act as its
intermediaries. They transmit the
orienting power of Polaris to all, whether that signal is received clearly or
not.
The
first in the zodiac amongst this group of three is the constellation and
representative sign of Aries. Aries,
according to the Tibetan, is involved in a triangle composed of Polaris, Aries,
and Leo.[59] This triangle of course relates the
constellation and sign of Leo to Polaris as well. The connection between Leo and Polaris
arises, the Tibetan implied, because it is under the influence of Leo that the
consciousness of individuality is developed, utilized, and then finally
consecrated to Divine Purpose.[60] Polaris is known to distribute the Ray of
Will and Purpose; so also are Aries and Leo.[61] Clearly, the connection establishing the
existence of the Polaris-Aries-Leo triangle is this similarity in ray
quality. Note that the Tibetan singled
out in the discussion of this triangle the eventual consecration of the
individuality to Divine Purpose, a hint that this must be the point toward
which all Ray One activation leads.
Thus, the Polaris-Aries-Leo triangle must be understood to play a part
in bringing all units of evolution to the realization that there is a Divine
Will with a specific numinous quality, and that its inherent nature inspires
consecration of self to its objectives.
Aries plays a vital part in the dissemination of this influence,
awakening the individual unit to its unique potential. Aries brings forward the power of Polaris and
instills it in the prepared individual, who then is stimulated to detect the
direction in consciousness in which Divine Purpose may be sensed.
Leo
works similarly, also conducting the influence of Polaris into the region of
consciousness in our solar system.[62] Thus, Aries and Leo by virtue of their roles
in a triangle with Polaris can be said to distribute its energies. Leo does so as well on its own, outside of
the triangle function.[63] Leo brings the influence of Polaris into our
system and planetary life, conducting it right into the processes which drive
individualization and ultimately those of initiation, for the latter is the
final fruit of the former. Many are the
stages of individualization and initiation, but some degree of influence of
Polaris figures throughout the long path, functioning as a silent yet constant
reminder that a higher integrating center exists. Such input undoubtedly provides an ongoing
motivation to seek greater levels of individual integration, which motivation
is certainly evident under activation from the both the signs Aries and Leo.
Aries
and Leo are also signs that encourage the individual to seek leadership roles,
a reflection of Ray One and its connection with the ability to lead. In all this, Polaris constantly speaks in the
background through the working of these two signs, sounding its theme
concerning a specific direction in consciousness and outer endeavor which ought
to be taken. Of course, the right
interpretation of that signal indicating proper direction is an art and likely
a science as well, requiring practice in many a lifetime for perfection. Any incarnations in which the chart of the
individual is much influenced by either Aries or Leo (or both) will proffer
opportunity for such practice, as the individual tries out various causes to
champion and various modes of setting direction for self and others, thus to
determine the true and highest inner sounding note. Because of this, it is well for counseling
esoteric astrologers to remember that the influence of Polaris, however deeply
veiled and imperfectly comprehended, may well stand behind the incentive to
lead the crowd or group so often seen as a consequence of influence from either
or both of the two signs, Aries and Leo.
The
same may be said of Aquarius, the third constellation and representative sign
said by the Tibetan to distribute the powers of Polaris, if it is accepted that
Aquarius by virtue of its association with this Ray One star (and the Ray One
Great Bear) contains a Ray One component, and hence concerns these same issues
of right leadership.
Consider
now this third constellation and representative sign said by the Tibetan to
distribute the powers of Polaris – Aquarius, Water-Bearer. The Tibetan’s characterization of the dynamic
existing between Polaris and Aquarius in this regard is of great moment at this
time in the history of the planet, as will be shown. Here is how the Tibetan stated the matter.
“The
influence which emanates from the Pole Star…reaches our planet via the sign
Aquarius,” which sign “…is a force centre from which the adept draws the ‘water
of life’ and carries it to the multitude.
This force from the Pole Star, via Aquarius, is of special power at this
time and the day of opportunity is therefore great. It is one of the agencies which make the
coming of the Great Lord a possibility.
He is Himself upon the fifth path just as the manu is upon the third.”[64]
Much
information is packed into this one passage, though a good bit of its message
is veiled in occult obscurity.
Nonetheless, in an attempt to appreciate the jewels of occult
significance embedded within it, it shall be
analyzed point by point.
As
is clear, this passage begins with an allusion to the basic nature of the sign
Aquarius, which is symbolized by a figure carrying an urn or jug of water, the
figure often depicted in the act of pouring forth the contents of the
vessel. What comes forth from that
“vessel,” or sign, is nothing other than “the waters of life,” plus the
influence of Polaris, well mixed in.
Perhaps it might even rightly be said that the influence of Polaris
constitutes a portion of the waters of life, life being one of the keywords
associated by the Tibetan with the First Aspect, which aspect is known to work
through this star.
The
“waters of life” might well be understood as a vital power or energy, crucial
to the forward momentum of evolution.
These waters are garnered by the adept, that he or she may then carry
them to the multitude. The multitude is
of course constituted of mass humanity plus any and all of the sub-human
kingdoms, carrying inspiration to which is one of the many responsibilities of
the enlightened human unit. It is from
the constellation and sign of Aquarius, carrying influence from Polaris, that
this great work is to be done.
The
combined Polaris - Aquarian influence, the passage states, is of particular
importance at this juncture in evolution on our planet, for it is one of the
“agencies” by which “the coming of the Great Lord” is made possible. Who or
what is this Great Lord? According to
this passage, this Great Lord is “on the
Fifth Path,” which wording undoubtedly refers to the Fifth Cosmic Path, the Ray
Path, the very path which leads to the star Polaris and the etheric
constellation which it veils. Further,
the passage states that this Great Lord is on the Fifth Cosmic Path in just the
same way that the Manu is on the Third Cosmic Path, a statement which would
appear to suggest that the unnamed Great Lord is of a stature parallel to that
of the Manu.
Since
the Manu is one of three figures guiding the three major departments of
Hierarchy,[65]
any figure parallel in stature would of necessity be one of the other
departmental heads. Thus, this “Great
Lord” must be either the Bodhisattva or the Mahachohan, the executive officers
of the Second and Third Departments of Hierarchy, just as the Manu is the executive
officer of the First. Enlightenment as
to which it is may come in the Tibetan’s statement that the Fifth Cosmic Path,
the one upon which this “Great Lord” is to be found, is primarily traversed by
“Masters of the Wisdom,” while “Lords of Compassion” opt for the Fourth Cosmic
Path.[66] The phrase “Masters of the Wisdom” being undeniably evocative of things
associated with the Love-Wisdom or Second Ray, it would appear that this “Great
Lord” is likewise associated with things Second Ray. He is therefore likely the Bodhisattva, the Christ, or the World Teacher, these terms
all referring to the office held by the one who leads the great second
department of the Hierarchy, and who is the spiritual figure expected to return
to outer plane and general visibility by many spiritual traditions.[67]
Thus, it is plain to see that this
quiet declamation regarding the star Polaris and the distribution of its
energies through the constellation and sign of Aquarius contains a key to the
timing of and power behind one of the most anticipated developments in the
current evolutionary plan. In other
words, this passage states that force from Polaris, flowing through Aquarius,
is one of the influences which make the reappearance of the Christ
possible. Attention to the nature of
Polaris and its astrological intermediary, Aquarius, are therefore all the more
timely and significant.
The
inescapable conclusion is that the influence of Aquarius plays a key role in
bringing about the developments on our planet which will lead to the much
awaited reappearance of the Christ, together with the closely linked and
parallel externalization of the Hierarchy and restoration of the
mysteries. Aquarian influence bears the
rays of Polaris, which pour forth in the waters of life emanated by this
constellation and sign. Known as a sign
of humanitarian endeavor and of great impersonal love extended to all alike,
Aquarius is a fitting sign to accompany the Great Lord and his Companions on
Their way, concerned as He is with the well-being of all humanity throughout
the globe. As the Tibetan said of the
Christ, “Daily He pours out his blessing on the world, and daily He stands
under the great pine in His garden at the sunset hour with hands uplifted in
blessing over all those who truly and earnestly seek to aspire.”[68] This is the broad dissemination of
beneficence so often referred to in connection with Aquarius, which sign is
concerned with universal and general distribution,[69] a
concept ably symbolized by the urn spilling its contents to slake the thirst of
all. Plainly, Polaris working through
Aquarius works toward this kind of orientation.
It is a star directing all to the widest possible distribution of the essential
energies of life, the will to good and to infinite evolutionary unfoldment. Its influence is perhaps to be more potent
than ever during the precessional Age of Aquarius, during which time the impact
of Aquarius upon our entire planetary life is to be greatly pronounced.
Of
note is the fact that of the three zodiacal constellations and their
representative signs said to represent Polaris, two are connected with the
Fifth Ray. Aquarius is one of these; Leo
the other.[70] Both represent Polaris and both distribute
the Fifth Ray. This fact would suggest
that the Fifth Ray may be characteristic of Polaris, in addition to its known
First Ray nature. Evidence to this
effect may be adduced in the fact that the Fifth Ray concerns the development
of the mental principle and the cultivation of specific knowledge, capacities
undoubtedly central to the work done by Polaris, which as has been shown, draws
unto itself those who walk a Cosmic Path concerned with profoundly technical
occult matters. Specifically, the
ability of adepts on the Fifth Cosmic Path to insulate themselves from particular
vibrations harks back to the Fifth Ray capacity to narrow attention and fix it
upon one single factor.
Further
application of this Fifth Ray capacity may be seen in the ability to rationally
examine data and make impartial observations, which capacity must come to
dominate the management of world affairs, replacing the prejudice and emotionally driven responses
characteristic of the Piscean Age, before the Great Lord can make His
reappearance in the Aquarian. This may
be one of the psychospiritual developments consequent upon the influence of
Polaris, said to be one of the agents which facilitates the reappearance of the
Christ.
Thus,
there is much which argues in favor of the inherent presence of Ray Five
characteristics in the influence of Polaris, represented as it is by two
constellations and their representative signs carrying this influence into our
solar system. To this should be added
the unquestioned association of Polaris with the First Ray. Of note is the fact that these are the same
rays (Rays One and Five) proposed for the influence of Ursa Minor (the Little
Bear), in which constellation Polaris is found.
Whatever
the ultimate revelation in this regard, it can certainly be stated with
confidence that there exists in the current installment of the Ageless Wisdom abundant implication that Polaris
distributes the energies of Rays One and Five, these being conducted through
Aries, Leo, and Aquarius, in just such a manner as to remind the wandering
seeker of the precise destination toward which he or she should be
striving. This star motivates the unit
to “recover” what has been “lost,” which is to say, to return to the port or
place from which it originally came.
Thus, it can be said that Polaris encourages return to soul consciousness,
to monadic functioning, or to the Greater Logoic source from which the unit has
emanated, depending upon the segment of the path upon which the rays of Polaris
find the journeying unit. For those at and beyond the Third or
Transfiguration Initiation, the rays of Polaris undoubtedly encourage the
attainment of monadic functioning, doing so through the aegis of Aries, Leo,
and Aquarius. This fact should be
remembered by the counseling esoteric astrologer.
Thus,
the Star of Direction points the way to reunion. In so doing, it completes the message
revealed by the starry triplicity of Polaris, Merak, and Dubhe said by the
Tibetan to be so important in the charts of disciples and initiates.[71] It is now clear that Polaris, which governs
First Ray Shamballa,[72]
and Merak, which embodies the Will to Unify (a Second Ray characteristic)
represent monad and soul, respectively.
Dubhe, so unabashedly representing the form or Third Aspect, fills in at
the level of personality. Hence, when
esoteric astrologers are advised to examine the effect of this triangle in
regard to disciples and initiates, perhaps they are really being asked to
examine the status of monadic functioning, soul consciousness, and personality
expression in the life of the individual at hand. This may prove to be a very different matter
than what has been assumed. It may have
nothing to do with discrete star positions and everything to do with the
general themes for which these three important stars stand. After all, the astrology of discipleship and
initiation cuts a very different swath than does the astrology of measurement
and analysis so familiar to the exoteric methodologist.
[1]
R.H. Allen, Star Names, Their Lore and Meaning, p. 453: Vivian Robson, The
Fixed Stars and Constellations in Astrology, p. 184.
[2]
Vivian Robson, The Fixed Stars and Constellations in Astrology, p. 12. Polaris has also variously been estimated to
hold a position 36 to 63 light years away from our planet, as reported in R.H.
Allen, Star Names, Their Lore and Meaning, p. 458.
[3]
E.C. Krupp, Beyond the Blue Horizon, p.
279.
[4]
R.H. Allen, Star Names, Their Lore and
Meaning, p. 457.
[5]
E.C. Krupp, Beyond the Blue Horizon, p. 279.
[6]
R.H. Allen, Star Names, Their Lore and Meaning, pp. 457 – 458.
[7]
R.H. Allen gives 25,695 to 25,868 years as the length of the precessional or
nutational cycle in Star Names, Their Lore and Meaning, pp. 457 – 458; J.D. Staal gives 25,800 for the same cycle in
his more recent publication, The New Patterns in the Sky, p. 32.
[8]
R.H. Allen, Star Names, Their Lore and Meaning, pp. 453 – 454, 457 – 458.
[9]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 197.
In this passage, the Tibetan stated, “Later, another Pole Star will take
the place of Polaris, owing to the interplay of forces in the universe and the
general shift and movement. But the name
and quality of the star will only be revealed at initiation.” The interplay of forces mentioned here may be
deep subjective interactions taking place at levels of energy unperceived by
present day human means, but their outer counterpart is of course nothing other
than the nutation cycle. Further, the
name of the star next to function as the Pole Star is certainly well known to
astronomy, though the occult characterization of it is not. Thus, it would appear that at least some of
what once was highly guarded initiatory information is now exoterically known
through the medium of the astrophysical sciences. Similarly with the heliocentric arrangement
of the solar system, which fact of life was accepted by the true ancient
mystery schools and finally corroborated by science after the objections of
religious orthodoxy had finally been overcome by the sheer weight of evidence.
[10]
R.H. Allen, Star Names, Their Lore and Meaning, p. 458; Vivian Robson, The
Fixed Stars and Constellations in Astrology, pp. 184 – 185.
[11]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 195.
[12]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 195.
[13]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 195.
[14]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 197.
[15]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 196.
[16]
Alice A. Bailey, “Introductory Remarks,” in The Light of the Soul, pp. xv. –
xvi.
[17]
Alice A. Bailey, “Introductory Remarks,” in The Light of the Soul, p. xvi.
[18]
Alice A. Bailey, “Introductory Remarks,” in The Light of the Soul, p. xv.
[19]
Alice A. Bailey, The Light of the Soul, p.
303.
[20]
Alice A. Bailey, The Light of the Soul, p. 303.
[21]
Alice A. Bailey, The Light of the Soul, pp. 303 – 304.
[22]
Alice A. Bailey, The Light of the Soul, p. 304.
[23]
Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire,
p. 795.
[24]
H.P. Blavatsky, The Secret Doctrine, v. II, p. 768.
[25]
H.P. Blavatsky, The Secret Doctrine, v. II, p. 768.
[26]
Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire, p. 796.
[27]
Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire, p. 1262.
[28]
Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire, p. 1262.
[29]
See p. 427, The Rays and the Initiations.
[30] Alice A. Bailey, The Rays and the Initiations, p. 420.
[31] Alice A. Bailey, The Rays and the
Initiations, p. 419.
[32] Alice A. Bailey, The Rays and the
Initiations, pp. 419 – 420.
[33] The seven types of the Will are discussed in
full in Bailey’s Esoteric Astrology, pp. 599 – 601.
[34] Alice A. Bailey, The Rays and the
Initiations, p. 420.
[35] Alice A. Bailey, The Rays and the
Initiations, p. 421.
[36] Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire,
p. 1262.
[37] Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire,
p. 1262.
[38] Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire,
p. 1262.
[39] Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire,
p. 1263.
[40] Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire,
p. 1264.
[41] Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire,
pp. 1263 - 1264.
[42] Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire,
p. 456.
[43] Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire,
p. 1264.
[44] Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire,
pp. 152, 1094.
[45] Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire,
p. 1182.
[46] Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire, p. 1182.
[47] Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 300.
[48]
R.H. Allen, Star Names, Their Lore and Meaning, pp. 447, 455, 456.
[49]
R.H. Allen, Star Names, Their Lore and Meaning, pp. 454 – 455.
[50]
R.H. Allen, Star Names, Their Lore and Meaning, p. 455.
[51]
R.H. Allen, Star Names, Their Lore and Meaning, p. 457.
[52]
E.C. Krupp, Beyond the Blue Horizon, pp. 283 - 285.
[53]
E.C. Krupp, Beyond the Blue Horizon, p. 286.
[54]
H.P. Blavatsky, The Secret Doctrine, V. II, p. 785.
[55] V.
P. Karitkar and W. Owen Cole, eds., Hinduism, pp. 39, 96.
[56]
R.H. Allen, Star Names, Their Lore and Meaning, p. 457.
[57]
Vivian Robson, The Fixed Stars and Constellations in Astrology, p. 185.
[58]
“There is more real occultism hidden in the names given to the various stars by
astronomers down the ages than has yet been realised….” Esoteric Astrology, p. 300.
[59]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 197.
[60]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 196.
[61]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 489.
[62]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 194.
[63]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 196.
[64]
Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic
Fire, p. 1263. Aquarius is also given as
an astrological intermediary of Polaris on p. 427 of The Rays and the Initiations.
[65]
Alice A. Bailey, Initiation, Human and Solar, pp. 41 – 49.
[66]
Alice A. Bailey, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire, p. 1261. Those opting for the Fourth Cosmic Path
include the Master Jesus, for verification of which statement, see Cosmic Fire,
p. 1259.
[67]
Alice A. Bailey, Initiation, Human and
Solar, pp. 43 – 44. Since the Master
Jesus and the Christ are considered two quite distinct entities by the esoteric
occult tradition, it is plain that one may follow the Fourth Cosmic Path and
the other the Fifth, with no contradiction implied.
[68]
Alice A. Bailey, Initiation, Human and Solar, p. 44.
[69]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 285.
[70]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 489.
[71]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 197.
[72]
Alice A. Bailey, Esoteric Astrology, p. 197.